German citizenship (Einbürgerung) opens doors to living, working, and traveling freely throughout the European Union. The citizenship law was completely reformed in 2026, introducing new requirements and abolishing the old fast-track system. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the new 2026 citizenship law, eligibility requirements, and the application process.
Whether you're planning to apply for German citizenship or just exploring your options, understanding the 2026 citizenship law changes is crucial. This guide is based on the latest legal requirements from the new citizenship law (Staatsangehörigkeitsgesetz) effective as of 2026, updated as of January 2026. This guide is generally for people living in Germany who are considering applying for German citizenship.
💡 Note: Use our free German Citizenship Eligibility Checker to see if you qualify based on your specific situation. It's completely free and takes just 5 minutes.
📋 Legal Sections Covered in This Guide
This comprehensive guide covers the following sections of the German Citizenship Act (Staatsangehörigkeitsgesetz - StAG):
- • StAG §9: Marriage-based citizenship (3 years residence + 2 years marriage) - covered in "Special Routes: Marriage-Based Citizenship" section
- • StAG §10: Standard naturalization (5 years residence, B1 German, citizenship test, financial stability, identity proof, constitution commitment) - covered in "Eligibility Requirements (2026)" section
- • Dual Citizenship: General rules (replaced former StAG §12) - covered in "Dual Citizenship in Germany (2026 Update)" section
- • StAG §10 Special Exceptions: Guest worker generation (Gastarbeitergeneration) - covered in "Special Cases and Exceptions" section
What Changed in 2026? The New Citizenship Law
The German citizenship law (Staatsangehörigkeitsgesetz) was completely reformed in 2026. The new law came into effect on October 30, 2025, and applies to all applications submitted in 2026. Here are the key changes from the new citizenship law:
- Dual Citizenship Allowed: Since June 27, 2024, Germany generally allows dual citizenship. You no longer need to renounce your original citizenship in most cases.
- Fast-Track Abolished: The old "Turboeinbürgerung" (fast-track) system with 3-year residence for highly qualified individuals was abolished in October 2025. The standard route now requires 5 years for everyone.
- StAG §10(3) Abolished: The provision allowing reduction to 3 years residence based on exceptional integration achievements (besondere Integrationsleistungen) - such as C1 German level, outstanding academic/professional achievements, or community service - was abolished in the 2026 reform. This fast-track option is no longer available.
- Marriage-Based Route Clarified: If married to a German citizen for 2+ years AND your German spouse has been a German citizen for 2+ years, you can apply after 3 years of residence instead of 5 (StAG §9).
- Language Requirements: B1 level German is now the minimum requirement for all applicants (previously, some exceptions existed).
- Identity Proof Required: New requirement to provide official proof of identity and nationality.
- Constitution Commitment: All applicants must demonstrate commitment to the German Basic Law (Grundgesetz) and historical responsibility.
Eligibility Requirements (2026)
To be eligible for German citizenship, you must meet all of the following requirements:
1. Residence Requirement
- ✓Minimum 5 years of continuous legal residence in Germany (2026 standard)
- ✓Exception: 3 years if married to a German citizen for 2+ years AND your German spouse has been a German citizen for 2+ years
- ✓Residence must be legal and continuous (short trips abroad are allowed)
- ✓Important: Time spent under educational permits (§16a, §16b AufenthG) DOES count toward the 5-year requirement. However, you cannot apply for citizenship while still holding these permits - you must switch to a qualifying permit (e.g., work permit, permanent residence) before applying
- ✓At the time of application, you must hold a qualifying residence permit (not educational or job-seeking permits)
2. Language Proficiency
- ✓B1 level German proficiency (minimum requirement for all applicants in 2026)
- ✓Proof through recognized certificates: Goethe-Zertifikat B1, Telc Deutsch B1, or equivalent
- ✓Some exceptions may apply for the 'guest worker generation' (Gastarbeitergeneration)
- ✓Higher levels (B2, C1, C2) are accepted but not required
3. Citizenship Test (Einbürgerungstest)
- ✓Pass the official citizenship test with at least 17 out of 33 questions correct
- ✓Test covers: German history, politics, society, and democratic principles
- ✓Exemptions: Age 60+, severe disability, 'guest worker generation', or university graduates in specific subjects (Law, Social Sciences, Political Science, Public Administration) from German universities
- ✓University exemption: If you graduated from a German university in Law (Rechtswissenschaft), Social Sciences (Sozialwissenschaften), Political Science (Politikwissenschaft), or Public Administration (Verwaltungswissenschaften), you may be exempt from the test
- ✓Test can be taken multiple times if needed
4. Financial Stability
- ✓Must be able to secure your livelihood without social assistance (ALG II/Bürgergeld)
- ✓Exception: 'Guest worker generation' may receive certain benefits and still qualify
- ✓Per capita income should generally be above social assistance threshold (approximately €1000-1200 per person)
- ✓Self-employed applicants must show sufficient net income
- ✓Receiving ALG II or social assistance (SGB XII) usually disqualifies unless you meet specific exceptions
- ✓Important: If you're in a probation period (Probezeit) at work, some naturalization offices may delay your application until probation ends, as they want to ensure stable employment. While not legally required, probation periods are often viewed unfavorably by authorities when assessing financial stability
5. Identity and Nationality Proof
- ✓Official proof of identity (passport, ID card)
- ✓Proof of current nationality
- ✓Birth certificate (may be required)
- ✓All documents must be officially translated if not in German or English
6. Commitment to Constitution
- ✓Commitment to the German Basic Law (Grundgesetz)
- ✓Recognition of Germany's historical responsibility
- ✓No extremist views or activities
- ✓No serious criminal convictions (minor fines may be acceptable)
Residence Permit Types (2026)
Understanding which residence permits count toward the 5-year requirement and which ones disqualify you from applying is crucial:
✅ Qualifying Permits (Can Apply)
- • Permanent residence permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis)
- • EU long-term residence permit
- • Work permits (§18, §18a, §18b AufenthG)
- • Family reunification permits (§28-§36 AufenthG)
- • Blue Card EU (§18b AufenthG)
- • Settlement permit for skilled workers
Note: Time under educational permits (§16a, §16b) counts toward 5 years, but you must switch to a qualifying permit before applying.
❌ Disqualifying Permits (Cannot Apply While Holding)
- • Training permits (§16a, §16d-f, §17 AufenthG)
- • Student permits (§16b AufenthG)
- • Job-seeking permits (§20, §20a AufenthG)
- • Language course permits (§16f AufenthG)
- • Temporary protection (§24 AufenthG)
- • ICT cards (§19, §19b AufenthG)
- • Voluntary service (§19e AufenthG)
- • Humanitarian permits without permanent prospect (§22 AufenthG)
Important: You cannot apply for citizenship while holding these permits. You must switch to a qualifying permit first.
Special Routes: Marriage-Based Citizenship
3-Year Marriage Route (2026)
If you are married to a German citizen, you may qualify for citizenship after only 3 years of residence instead of 5, but you must meet ALL of these conditions:
- You have been married to a German citizen for at least 2 years
- Your German spouse has been a German citizen for at least 2 years
- You have lived in Germany for at least 3 years (continuous legal residence)
- You meet all other standard requirements (B1 German, citizenship test, financial stability, etc.)
Important: If your German spouse became a German citizen less than 2 years ago, you must wait until they have been German for 2 years, OR you can apply through the standard 5-year route.
Dual Citizenship in Germany (2026 Update)
Since June 27, 2024, Germany generally allows dual citizenship. This is a major change from previous rules where you typically had to renounce your original citizenship.
When Can You Keep Your Original Citizenship?
- ✓ EU/EEA Citizens: You can always keep your EU citizenship
- ✓ Countries That Don't Allow Renunciation: If your country doesn't allow you to renounce citizenship, you can keep it
- ✓ General Rule (2024+): Germany now generally allows dual citizenship for naturalized citizens
- ✓ Special Cases: Refugees, victims of Nazi persecution, and their descendants can keep multiple citizenships
However, you should always check with your original country's laws, as some countries may require you to renounce citizenship if you acquire another one.
| Route | Residence Required | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Route | 5 years | B1 German, citizenship test, financial stability |
| Marriage Route | 3 years | Married 2+ years, spouse German 2+ years, B1 German, citizenship test |
Step-by-Step Application Process
⏱️ Application Timeline (2026)
Preparation Phase (2-6 months)
Gather documents, complete language course (if needed), prepare for citizenship test, ensure financial stability.
Application Submission
Submit complete application with all required documents to your local naturalization office (Einbürgerungsbehörde).
Processing Time (3-12 months)
Authorities review your application, verify documents, check background. You may be called for an interview.
Naturalization Certificate
Upon approval, you receive your naturalization certificate (Einbürgerungsurkunde). You are now a German citizen!
Required Documents Checklist
- ✓Application form (Antrag auf Einbürgerung) - available from your local naturalization office
- ✓Valid passport and proof of current nationality
- ✓Birth certificate (may need to be apostilled/legalized)
- ✓Residence permit and proof of residence history
- ✓German language certificate (B1 minimum, e.g., Goethe-Zertifikat B1, Telc Deutsch B1)
- ✓Citizenship test certificate (Einbürgerungstest)
- ✓Proof of income (last 3-6 months of payslips, tax returns, or bank statements)
- ✓Rental agreement or proof of housing
- ✓Marriage certificate (if applying through marriage route)
- ✓Criminal record certificate (Führungszeugnis) - usually obtained automatically by authorities
- ✓Biometric photos (recent passport photos)
Application Fees (2026)
- Standard application fee: €255 per adult
- Children under 16: €51 per child (if applying together with parents)
- Reduced fee: May be available for low-income applicants (check with your local office)
- Additional costs: Language course (if needed), citizenship test fee (€25), document translations, notarizations
Common Disqualifying Factors
❌ Reasons Your Application May Be Rejected
- • Receiving ALG II (Bürgergeld) or social assistance without meeting exceptions (e.g., guest worker generation)
- • Serious criminal convictions (violence, drugs, xenophobia, anti-Semitism)
- • Insufficient German language skills (below B1 level)
- • Not passing the citizenship test
- • Insufficient residence period (less than 5 years, or less than 3 years for marriage route without meeting all conditions)
- • Applying while still holding disqualifying permits (educational, job-seeking, etc.) - you must switch to a qualifying permit first
- • Extremist activities or views
- • False information or forged documents
Special Cases and Exceptions
Guest Worker Generation (Gastarbeitergeneration)
If you belong to the "guest worker generation" (people who came to Germany as guest workers, typically between 1955-1973, and their descendants), you may qualify for relaxed requirements:
- May receive ALG II or social assistance and still qualify for citizenship
- May have relaxed language requirements in some cases
- May be exempt from the citizenship test in some cases
- Still need to meet residence requirements (5 years standard, or 3 years for marriage route)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need permanent residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis) to apply for citizenship?
A: No, permanent residence is not legally required for citizenship in 2026. However, having permanent residence can make your application stronger and is generally preferred by authorities. You can apply with a temporary residence permit as long as you meet all other requirements.
Q: Can I apply if I'm receiving unemployment benefits (ALG II)?
A: Generally, no. Receiving ALG II (Bürgergeld) or social assistance usually disqualifies you unless you meet specific exceptions (e.g., guest worker generation). You must be able to secure your livelihood without social assistance.
Q: How long does the application process take?
A: Typically 3-12 months from submission to approval, depending on your local office's workload and the complexity of your case. Some offices are faster, others may take longer.
Q: Can I apply if I'm still in probation period (Probezeit) at my job?
A: While probation periods are not legally required to be completed under the 2026 citizenship law, many naturalization offices view them unfavorably. Authorities want to ensure stable employment for the "livelihood requirement" (Lebensunterhalt gesichert). Some offices may delay your application decision until after probation ends. It's generally recommended to wait until probation is completed, especially if you're the sole income earner. If you have other stable income sources or your spouse has stable employment, this may be less of an issue.
Q: Do I need to be permanently employed (fest angestellt) to apply for citizenship?
A: No, permanent employment (fest angestellt) is not legally required. What matters is that you can demonstrate financial stability and secure your livelihood without social assistance. If you're married to a German citizen who has stable employment, their income can be considered when assessing your financial stability. However, if you're the sole income earner or your spouse doesn't have sufficient income, you'll need to show stable income yourself. Temporary contracts, freelance work, or part-time employment can be acceptable if they demonstrate sufficient and stable income. The key is proving "Lebensunterhalt gesichert" (livelihood secured), not the type of employment contract.
Q: Can I travel abroad during the application process?
A: Yes, short trips abroad are generally allowed and won't break your continuous residence. However, long absences (more than 6 months) may affect your application. Always inform your naturalization office if you plan extended travel.
Q: What happens if my application is rejected?
A: You can appeal the decision (Widerspruch) within one month. If the appeal is unsuccessful, you can take legal action. It's advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer if your application is rejected.
Resources and Next Steps
Ready to check your eligibility? Use our free German Citizenship Eligibility Checker to see if you qualify based on your specific situation.
📚 Additional Resources
- • Official Source: Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI)
- • Citizenship Test: Practice with our free German Citizenship Test with 300+ official questions
- • Language Courses: Improve your German with our free German learning app - vocabulary, quizzes, and exam preparation (A1-C1)
- • Legal Advice: Consider consulting an immigration lawyer (Einwanderungsanwalt) for complex cases
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⚠️ Important Legal Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information provided here is based on publicly available sources and our interpretation of the 2026 German citizenship law (Staatsangehörigkeitsgesetz). However, citizenship laws can change, individual circumstances vary significantly, and local naturalization offices may interpret requirements differently.
We strongly recommend: Always consult with official sources (Federal Ministry of the Interior, your local Einbürgerungsbehörde) or a qualified immigration lawyer (Einwanderungsanwalt) for your specific situation. Do not rely solely on this guide for making important legal decisions. We assume no liability for any decisions made based on this information.
Last updated: January 20, 2026.