Naturalization for students
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Naturalization for students – your path to German citizenship

The reform of German citizenship law makes it significantly easier for foreign students to acquire German citizenship by reducing the minimum residence period to five years. Students wishing to apply for German citizenship must demonstrate five years of legal residence in Germany. This residency requires either a permanent residence permit or a residence permit for purposes other than purely academic ones, as well as B1 German language skills. They must be financially independent, have no significant criminal convictions, and adhere to the free and democratic basic order. The new legislation also allows for dual citizenship, allowing students to retain their previous nationality.

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§ 16b Residence Act – Residence permit for students in Germany

A residence permit under Section 16b of the Residence Act allows international students to legally stay in Germany for the purpose of studying. This is subject to admission to a state or recognized university or comparable educational institution for full-time study.

To obtain a temporary residence permit, students must be admitted to a relevant university and, if necessary, complete preparatory measures such as language or preparatory courses. They must have a valid residence permit and renew it in a timely manner.

The initial residence permit is valid for a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years. An extension is possible as long as the student's studies are not yet completed. For shorter study programs, the validity period corresponds to the duration of the program. Participants in EU or multilateral programs with university cooperation receive a residence permit for at least two years.

The validity of the residence permit is tied to the student visa. If the student visa expires, the residence permit also expires unless an extension is applied for. After completing their studies, students have the option of applying for a new residence permit for vocational training, skilled employment, or other activities requiring high professional qualifications.

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German citizenship for students
Naturalization requirements and legal information

Students seeking German citizenship must meet certain residency and naturalization requirements. Particularly important are the length of time they have lived in the country and their residence permit.

Recognition of periods of residence for naturalization

All periods of residence with a residence permit under the Residence Act, including periods of study, are recognized for the minimum stay. It is important that there is no longer stay abroad between the end of studies and the acquisition of a new residence permit (maximum six months).

Students with a residence permit under Section 16b of the Residence Act (student visa) cannot apply for German citizenship directly. Therefore, it is recommended to secure a subsequent residence permit after completing their studies, such as the Section 18b Residence Act permit for skilled workers with academic qualifications.

Requirements for naturalization as a student

To obtain German citizenship, you must prove your identity and nationality, demonstrate German language skills at level B1 or higher, recognize the free and democratic basic order and not pursue anti-constitutional activities, be financially independent and only receive social benefits in exceptional cases, have no criminal record, and demonstrate knowledge of the legal and social system in Germany.

Our law firm ensures a quick and error-free application process, ensuring your path to German citizenship runs smoothly. Contact us for an initial consultation!

German citizenship through naturalization
Step-by-step instructions

Acquiring German citizenship through naturalization requires careful preparation and a flawless application. Our immigration law specialists will guide you through the entire process and ensure a legally secure and efficient naturalization.

Advice and application
The process begins with a consultation at the relevant naturalization office, where you will receive the necessary application forms. Applicants must be at least 16 years old, pay a naturalization fee, and submit required documents such as educational certificates, proof of income, and language certificates.

Naturalization test and official examination
After registering for the naturalization test at the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees, the application is examined by various German authorities such as the employment office, social welfare office, Federal Office of Justice, State Criminal Police Office and Office for the Protection of the Constitution.

Decision and approval of naturalization
If all requirements are met and all documents are complete, naturalization will be approved. Our law firm will assist you throughout the process to ensure your path to German citizenship runs smoothly.