Requirements for Naturalization

To be eligible for German citizenship, an individual must:

• Have lived in Germany for at least eight years (or seven years if they have successfully completed an integration course).
• Have no significant criminal record.
• Not be or have been a member or supporter of an extremist organization that opposes the free democratic basic order.
• Demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the German language and an understanding of the legal and social systems, as well as living conditions in Germany.
• Not be receiving social benefits.
• Be willing to renounce their previous citizenship.

Exceptions and deviations may apply to most of these requirements.