Germany offers citizenship by descent to individuals with German ancestry, allowing them to reconnect with their heritage and gain the benefits of German citizenship.
MOBILITY ASSSET SNAPSHOT
German citizenship by descent, also known as "citizenship by birth," is available to individuals who can prove German ancestry in a direct line. This path to citizenship is based on the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood) and has undergone several changes over the years.
Overview
Reconnect with your German heritage through citizenship by descent.
Eligibility Requirements
At least one parent was a German citizen
Anchor Ancestor restrictions
Must have been a German citizen at the time of the descendant's birth
Months to citizenship
Approximately 18-24 months
Length of Visa
Months to Visa
Physical Presence Requirement
None specified
Availability
Medium
Family Allowance
Spouse and children
Overview
Administrative Path: Submit application to German embassy or consulate abroad
Apply in Country Path: Applications can be submitted at local citizenship authorities if residing in Germany
Overview
Our experienced team will guide you through each stage of the application process, offering personalized assistance tailored to your needs.
We'll help you gather and organize the documents you need for applying.
Once your documents are ready, we'll let you know where and how to submit your application to the relevant authorities.
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
Can I claim German citizenship through my great-grandparent?
Do I need to speak German to apply for citizenship by descent?
How long does the citizenship application process take?
Can I hold dual citizenship with Germany?
Where do I submit my application for German citizenship by descent?
DOCUMENTS
Valid passport (original and copies)+National ID card (if applicable)+Passport-sized photographs (2-4)
Birth certificate of the applicant (long form, apostilled)+Marriage Certificate (if applicable)+Name change certificates (if applicable)
Not applicable
Criminal record extract from your country of residence.
Not applicable
DOCUMENTS
Birth certificates from government archives; Marriage certificates for family dependencies; Police clearance records from current and past residences
Certified translations into official language(s); Apostille certification; Government-issued document legalization
Diploma and transcript verification; Professional certification authentication; Credential evaluation services
Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees
Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing
Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing
Document verification fees; Background check processing; Application status updates
Consulate visit expenses; Interview travel costs; Temporary accommodation (if required)
Language proficiency testing; Skills assessment fees; Additional document requests
Immigration lawyer consultation; Document review services; Legal representation fees
Tax planning consultation; Asset transfer advisory; Investment planning services
Relocation services; Property search assistance; Settlement support services
Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates
Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees
Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees
IMMIGRATION PROGRAMS
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