Be legally eligible under German nationality law
Live in Germany long enough for naturalization
Hold a valid residence permit
Prove German language proficiency
Pass the naturalization test
Show knowledge of the legal and social order
Be able to support yourself financially
Have no serious criminal record
Declare commitment to the free democratic constitutional order
Renounce previous citizenship if required, unless an exception applies
Submit the naturalization application to the competent authority
Provide required documents, including identity, residence, income, and language proof
Pay the required fees
Wait for the decision on your application
Obtain citizenship through birth if born to a German parent
Obtain citizenship through descent if eligible by ancestry
Obtain citizenship through marriage only if you later qualify through naturalization
Obtain citizenship through restitution or special legal provisions if applicable