naturalization 's Acquisition of German Citizenship in Hamburg
With German citizenship you enjoy many advantages: As a citizen, you benefit from full freedom of movement within the European Union, you can travel to many countries visa-free with one of the strongest passports in the world, you have unlimited access to the European labor market - including the possibility of becoming a civil servant, and you can vote in elections in this country. And last but not least, you are finally officially German!
So it’s worth obtaining German citizenship. But how exactly does that work? There are various ways to acquire German citizenship: by birth, by declaration, through the displaced persons procedure—or through naturalization. This is the most common route for people who live in Hamburg and wish to become German citizens.
Since 27 June 2024, a modernized citizenship law has been in force that makes it easier to acquire German citizenship and allows dual citizenship in principle. As a result, anyone who naturalizes no longer has to give up their previous citizenship.
Find out here what you need to know when applying for a “naturalization ” in Hamburg —from the specific requirements to the address of the responsible authority.
Overview
Competent authority for naturalizations in Hamburg
If you wish to acquire German citizenship through naturalization ( naturalization ) in Hamburg, the Office of Migration within the Department of the Interior and Sports is the agency to contact. This is where your application for naturalization will be reviewed, processed, and—provided all requirements are met—approved.
On the website of the Hamburg Office of Migration, you can download relevant naturalization documents or conveniently apply for the " naturalization " online.
Contact information for the Department of the " naturalization " in Hamburg (as of Oct. 25)
Address:
Office for Migration
Naturalization Department
Hammer Straße 30-34
22041 Hamburg
Telephone:
+49 40 428 392-153
Requirements for a " naturalization " in Hamburg
In Hamburg, you have a legal right to naturalization if you meet certain requirements established by law. The basis for naturalization is uninterrupted, lawful residence in Germany for a period of five years. Your previous nationality and your identity must be clearly proven and documented. You must also actively affirm your commitment to the values of the Basic Law in a written statement.
A lasting residence title or a settlement permit or certain temporary residence permits issued for purposes other than merely temporary ones is also required for the “ naturalization ” in Hamburg. You must also be able to support yourself and your dependents independently, without relying on social benefits. You must have at least a B1 level of proficiency in German and demonstrate this with a recognized language certificate. You can demonstrate the necessary knowledge of the legal and social system in Germany, for example, by taking the naturalization test, which covers questions on politics, history, and everyday life in Germany. You are generally ineligible for the “ naturalization ” in Hamburg if you have been convicted of a serious criminal offense or are under investigation.
Please note: To ensure a successful naturalization in Hamburg, it is important to have all required documents ready. These include, for example, a resume, a marriage certificate (if applicable), an employment contract, and other documents. You can read more about this in our article on the most important documents for a naturalization.
Do you meet all the requirements for the naturalization in Hamburg?
Take the 2025 Naturalization Check!
Dual citizenship in Hamburg
Since the Act on the Modernization of Citizenship Law came into force in June 2024, dual citizenship is also possible in Hamburg. The previous obligation to give up your previous citizenship no longer applies if your country of origin also allows multiple citizenship (here you can find an overview of which countries worldwide allow dual citizenship).
Dual citizenship allows you to enjoy the aforementioned benefits of being a citizen of not just one, but two countries at the same time. You no longer have to choose one country, but can find your home in Germany without having to give up your origins.
Support from RT & Partner
Would you like individual support with your naturalization application or do you need advice?
Our migration law specialists will be happy to assist you - whether you need help compiling the necessary documents, clarifying complex issues or communicating directly with the authorities.
With the experts from RT & Partner, you will quickly achieve your rights.
FAQ
How well do I have to speak German to be naturalized?
Generally, language proficiency at the B1 level or higher is required for naturalization ( naturalization ). If you can demonstrate a higher level of language proficiency, you may be able to naturalize sooner under certain circumstances. Theoretically, naturalization ( naturalization ) is possible even with a language proficiency level lower than B1. However, this still requires a certain level of language proficiency, as your ability to integrate into German society must be ensured. In addition, there must be a public interest in your obtaining German citizenship.
Where can I take the " naturalization test " exam?
In Germany, you can register for the " naturalization test " at any participating institution and take the exam there as well. These institutions vary by region within Germany. We have listed all institutions by federal state for you:
Tip:
You can register for the " naturalization test " program anywhere in Germany, but you must answer the questions specific to the state where you live.
How long will it take for a decision to be made on my naturalization application?
Even now, it usually takes up to 12 monthsfor a decision to be made on an application for naturalization . When the new law takes effect on June 26, 2024, the number of naturalization applications is expected to will rise significantly . As a result, processing times will likely also increase by several months. If the authorities take too long to decide on your application, it may be advisable to file an action for failure to act . Our attorneys would be happy to advise you on this matter.
Do you still have to take the " naturalization test " test even under the new citizenship law?
Yes, the new law does not change the rules regarding the " naturalization test ." As before, however, anyone who at least a German high school diploma (Quali, Realschule, Abitur, etc.), and completed vocational training if the subject “Social Studies” was graded or a degree in the fields of law and social sciences, social sciences, or political science maycan provide proof of this.
Is it possible to get a " naturalization " despite a criminal record?
As a general rule, you cannot have a criminal record if you wish to become a naturalized citizen. However, not all prior convictions are actually relevant. For example, convictions or summary judgments involving no more than 90 daily fines, as well as convictions for prison terms of up to three months that were suspended and not enforced, are not taken into account. The same applies to criminal records that are no longer listed in the Federal Central Register ( no criminal record ). You can find more detailed information about the Federal Central Register at the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution ( naturalization ) here.
Can I apply for naturalization right now if I want the provisions of the new law (dual citizenship, shorter residency requirements, etc.) to apply to me?
The new Citizenship Act will take effect on June 27, 2024, but the processing time for an application at naturalization is typically around 12 months. The legal situation at the time the authorities make a decision is decisive for your application. It is very likely that this will not happen until after June 27. This means that, in principle, you can already submit an application for naturalization now, which will then be decided under the new legal framework. If a decision on your application is made before June 27, 2024, you will first be asked to provide proof that you have renounced your current citizenship. If you do not do so by June 27, you will be able to benefit from the new law after that date and retain your citizenship.
However, this varies from authority to authority and also depends on how long you have been in Germany. Our lawyers will be happy to advise you on your personal situation.
Can I check whether I meet all the requirements for a naturalization ?
If you want to check whether your naturalization application would be successful, you can do our naturalization check. However, this check only gives you a first overview. If you still have detailed questions or are unsure, then it is best to contact our lawyers.
How much does an " naturalization" cost?
A fee of 255.00 euros is required for a naturalization certificate for adults. The fee for a notice of denial ranges from 25.00 to 255.00 euros. A naturalization certificate for a minor (i.e., a child under the age of 18) who is being naturalized together with someone else (joint naturalization) incurs a fee of only 51.00 euros.
What are the advantages of German citizenship?
naturalization 's operations in Germany offer you a wide range ofbenefits. Through the " naturalization " in Germany, you’ll enjoy a wide range ofbenefits. Freedom of movement within Europe, the ability to enter many other countries visa-free with one of the “strongest” passports in the world, and protection by German government institutions even while traveling abroad are just a few of the many benefits of German citizenship. In addition, German citizens enjoy unrestricted access to the labor market in all EU member states —including the opportunity to become a civil servant—as well as a lifelong right of residence within Germany and the European Union, which does not expire even during extended stays abroad.
Can I be naturalized in Germany if I want to keep my previous citizenship?
The Bundestag has passed the Act on the Modernization of Citizenship Law. When it takes effect on June 27, 2024, it will be possible to hold dual citizenship ( naturalization ) even if one wishes to retain one’s former citizenship. However, the law of the country of origin must also permit dual citizenship.
What will be the minimum stay requirement for a " naturalization" in the future?
Since the new Citizenship Act came into force on June 27, 2024, the minimum period of residence in Germany is now only five years.
Can I be naturalized if I receive social assistance?
Anyone wishing to acquire German citizenship must be able to prove that they can support themselves and their dependents. to support themselves and their can support themselves. They must not be receiving benefits under the Second or Twelfth Book of the German Social Code (SGB II or SGB XII). be received. These include, for example, unemployment benefit II, basic income support in old age or in the event of reduced earning capacity and social assistance.
However, according to the new law , there are exceptionsIf you have been in full-time employment for 20 months within the last 24 months within the last 24 months, receiving state benefits is not harmful. The same applies if your spouse or registered partnerwho lives with you and a child has been in full-time employment for 20 months within the last 24 months. And also for former guest workers and contract workers and their spouses who have joined them are also exempt from receiving state benefits such as social assistance if they are not responsible for this.
Do I have to give up my old citizenship to become a German citizen ( naturalization ) in Germany?
Since the new Naturalization Act came into force on 27 June 2024, those wishing to naturalize no longer have to give up their old citizenship. According to the new legal situation, anyone can obtain dual citizenship - provided the country of origin also allows it. You can find a list of countries that do not allow dual citizenship here.
Where do I need to submit the application for naturalization ?
Where you must apply for naturalization ( naturalization ) depends on where you are residing. If you are residing in Germany, you must submit your application to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees ( naturalization authority ) with jurisdiction over your place of residence. You can find out which office this is by contacting the City or Municipal Office ( immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) ) in your city or town, or by contacting the city or municipal administration ( district). Applications for naturalization submitted from abroad, which are processed by the Federal Office of Administration (Bundesverwaltungsamt), must be filed with the appropriate German diplomatic mission ( German mission abroad ), i.e., the German embassy or a (general) consulate.
How long does it take to process a naturalization application?
The authorities often take a very long time to process a naturalization application due to the many documents involved. Processing times of several months to well over a year are the rule. Since the Act on the Modernization of Citizenship Law came into force on 27 June 2024, it can be assumed that waiting times will be considerably longer again because many new applications will be submitted. To help you obtain your rights more quickly, it may be advisable to file an action for failure to act. Our experienced lawyers will be happy to advise you on this. Just ask us.
Is it possible to take a " naturalization " after three years?
The general length of stay required to qualify for a “ naturalization ” (permanent residence permit) is five years. In cases of exceptional integration achievements—such as in the workplace, at school, or through volunteer work—this period could previously be reduced by up to two additional years. This meant that a “naturalization ” was possible after just three years of residence. However, in a resolution passed on October 8, 2025, the Bundestag decided to abolish the “ naturalization ” (residence permit for integration) after three years. Consequently , it is no longer possible to obtain a “ naturalization ” (residence permit for integration) after three years based on exceptional integration achievements.
What are the requirements to become a naturalized citizen?
We explained this in detail in our article on " naturalization."
Alternatively, you can complete our Naturalization Check.
Is it always possible to obtain naturalization without renouncing one's previous nationality?
Yes, at least as far as German citizenship law is concerned. In principle, dual citizenship has been open to all foreigners, regardless of their country of origin, since June 27, 2024. However, there may be laws in the country of origin that stipulate the loss of citizenship in the event that a citizen is granted citizenship of another country. Such laws exist in countries such as China, Austria, Lithuania, Estonia and the Netherlands. In any case, we advise you to obtain information in the country of your previous citizenship.
How does the " naturalization test " work?
The " naturalization test " consists of 33 multiple-choice questions, of which you must answer at least 17 correctly to pass. The test takes one hour to complete, and the fee is 25 euros. To prepare, you can take a practice test online or review the complete list of all possible questions. Where exactly you can register for the test and ultimately take it varies by region. We have created a corresponding overview for each federal state:
In general, you are not required to take the “ naturalization test ” exam in your home state. Instead, you can take the exam at any “ test center ” location throughout Germany. However, some of the questions will always pertain to your home state, even if you take the “ naturalization test ” exam in a different state.
When will the new Naturalization Act come into force?
The new Naturalization Act (Act on the Modernization of Citizenship Law) comes into force on June 27, 2024 in force, three months after its promulgation in the Federal Law Gazette. From then on dual citizenship in principle under German law possible for all, and will in particular the minimum period of residence to five years to five years. You can read more about the details of the new law here.