Hello guys,
I am planning to be a naturalized German citizen, but my legal residence period in Germany is 4 years three months.
Is it possible to send in my application now? As the process can take about a year or longer to be completed
I fulfilled all other requirements.
I have B2 language certificat and I have done volunteering services for many years.
Thanks
I’m not an expert, but I know that generally you need at least 5 years of legal residence for naturalization. With only 4 years and 3 months, it’s too early to apply — the authorities won’t start the process before the minimum time is met.
Before submitting your application, it will help to schedule an advice session with the authority. This will help clarify any questions you may have in person.
Read more here Naturalisation in Germany
Requirements for naturalisation
Good luck!
Anna
Hello Anna, thanks for the response.
I have contacted the citizenship authority in my city and they told me that it's possible for me to apply starting from December 2025.
They said the process here takes about eight(8) months.
Thanks!
Hi @Mamady ! If you need to become a German citizen urgently or planning to seek an exception, working with a lawyer might be the best way to go. A lawyer can help you understand what your options are with the available nr of years you have. Good luck!
Hello,
I am sorry to hear that. Unfortunately it is not allowed to apply for the German citizenship without fulfilling all requirements (as the legal residence period also counts as a requirement).