German Citizenship by Naturalisation
Long-term residents who meet residence, language and integration requirements.
The German Citizenship by Naturalisation is a German settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€255 (~€51 for minor children naturalised with a parent)) and processing time (~6-24 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the German Citizenship by Naturalisation is for
Long-term residents who meet residence, language and integration requirements.
This is full German citizenship, including an EU passport.
German Citizenship by Naturalisation - eligibility criteria
- Usually 5 years of lawful residence (3 with special integration)
- B1 German (sometimes higher) and a citizenship test
- Secure livelihood without reliance on benefits
- Commitment to the free democratic order
- No serious criminal convictions
German Citizenship by Naturalisation cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the German Citizenship by Naturalisation (Germany) is ~€255 (~€51 for minor children naturalised with a parent), with an indicative processing time of ~6-24 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Make it in Germany / BAMF.
| Type | Citizenship |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Inside Germany (at the naturalisation authority) |
| Length of stay | Permanent (citizenship) |
| Work rights | Full rights as a citizen |
| Study rights | Full rights as a citizen |
| Government fee | ~€255 (~€51 for minor children naturalised with a parent) |
| Processing time | ~6-24 months |
| Route to PR | This is full German citizenship, including an EU passport. |
Pathway & next steps
This is full German citizenship, including an EU passport.
Many applicants also compare Niederlassung · Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis), EU LTR · EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU), Fast-Track PR · Settlement Permit for Skilled Workers (Fast Track). Run a free VisaChief check to see which German route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common German Citizenship by Naturalisation pitfalls we fix
German Citizenship by Naturalisation - frequently asked questions
How much does the German Citizenship by Naturalisation cost?
The German Citizenship by Naturalisation government fee is ~€255 (~€51 for minor children naturalised with a parent). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the German Citizenship by Naturalisation take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6-24 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the German Citizenship by Naturalisation lead to permanent residence?
This is full German citizenship, including an EU passport.
Can I work on the German Citizenship by Naturalisation?
Work rights: Full rights as a citizen.
Who can apply for the German Citizenship by Naturalisation?
Long-term residents who meet residence, language and integration requirements.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Germany government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Make it in Germany / BAMF - official Germany immigration authority