Renunciation of German citizenship

All information on renouncing German citizenship and renaturalization after renouncing.

Here you learn ...

how to give up your German citizenship
when German citizenship can be revoked
how the withdrawal and waiver process works
how naturalization works after renouncing citizenship

1. Renunciation of German citizenship

2. Requirements for relinquishing German citizenship

3. Waiver procedure at the Federal Office of Administration

4. Revocation of naturalization

5. Renaturalization of former Germans

6. FAQ

7. Conclusion

1. Renunciation of German citizenship

Persons with multiple nationalities can renounce their German citizenship by submitting a declaration of renunciation ( Section 26 (1) of the German Citizenship Act ). This is often necessary if they take up political office in another country, enter the civil service, or if the other country does not permit dual citizenship. Tax and social security reasons can also be a motivation for renouncing German citizenship.

2. Requirements for relinquishing German citizenship

For the renunciation to become legally effective, the citizenship authority (Federal Office of Administration (BVA)) must approve the declaration and issue a renunciation certificate (Section 26 (2) of the Citizenship Act). Renunciation of German citizenship is only possible under the following conditions:

Multiple nationality: The person must have at least one other nationality in order not to be stateless after renunciation.
Approval by the BVA: The application must be submitted in writing to the Federal Office of Administration (BVA).
For minors and those under care: For minor children or adults under care, court approval is required.
No military service requirement: If the applicant is subject to military service, approval must be obtained from the relevant military authority.

3. Waiver procedure at the Federal Office of Administration

Renunciation of German citizenship is a formal process that can be applied for at the Federal Office of Administration (BVA) or, if you live abroad, through a German embassy. The application is initiated by a declaration of renunciation , which must be submitted along with the necessary documentation. This includes, among other things, a valid German passport or identity card and proof of another nationality. In certain cases, approval from the family or guardianship court may also be required (see above).

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After successfully reviewing the application, the Federal Office for the Immigration and Asylum (BVA) issues a certificate of renunciation . The renunciation of German citizenship only becomes legally effective upon receipt of this certificate (Section 26, Paragraph 3 of the Residence Act). From this point on, the affected individuals are considered foreign nationals in Germany and are subject to the corresponding residence regulations under the Residence Act (AufenthG). It is important to note that the loss of German citizenship can affect pension entitlements, civil service status, or social benefits.

4. Revocation of naturalization

Revocation of citizenship must be strictly distinguished from renunciation of German citizenship. Revocation is usually carried out by the authority with retroactive effect . In these cases, the citizenship authority issues a so-called revocation notice. However, naturalization can only be revoked if it was unlawful . In practice, this mainly applies to cases in which naturalization was acquired through deception or with intentionally incorrect or incomplete information. This can happen, for example, if false information is provided about the residence permit (e.g. if naturalization was applied for using a residence permit that had actually already expired).

More common cases also occur in which naturalization was applied for based on a marriage to a German citizen, but the couple was actually already separated (but not yet legally divorced). The citizenship authorities therefore often require a declaration that the couple still lives together and the marriage is still valid. If this declaration is signed even though the spouses are already living separately, this constitutes deception under German naturalization law, which justifies the revocation of naturalization.

5. Renaturalization of former Germans

Former Germans (i.e., people who have renounced their German citizenship, for example) can also renaturalize. According to Section 13 of the German Citizenship Act (StAG), a former German citizen and their minor children who habitually reside abroad can apply for naturalization if their identity and citizenship have been clarified and they have not committed any crimes.

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When it comes to renaturalizing former German citizens, however, it should be noted that the authorities have a certain degree of discretion . The authorities can approve the renaturalization, but they are not required to do so. This discretion often includes examining whether there is a public interest in naturalization. This may be the case, for example, if ties to Germany can be demonstrated that justify renaturalization.

6. FAQ

What are the requirements for renouncing German citizenship?
The most important requirement for renouncing German citizenship is that you still hold a nationality. Avoiding statelessness is therefore a fundamental principle of international law.

What is the legal basis for renouncing German citizenship?

From a legal point of view, renouncing German citizenship is a waiver (Section 26 StAG).

Are there any formal requirements for renouncing German citizenship?

Yes, people with multiple nationalities must renounce their German citizenship by means of a written declaration.

When do I need permission from the family court to renounce German citizenship?
In some cases, the family court must approve the waiver for minors. The family court is responsible for granting the approval.

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When does the renunciation of German citizenship take effect?
The waiver becomes effective upon delivery of the waiver certificate (Section 26 (3) StAG).

7. Conclusion

Renunciating German citizenship is a far-reaching legal step that requires careful preparation and sound reasoning. Anyone taking this path is required to obtain another citizenship and must undergo a formalized procedure at the Federal Office of Administration. Particular attention must be paid to the legal requirements, formalities, and potential consequences—for example, in terms of residence or social security law. At the same time, it is possible to be renaturalized after a voluntary renunciation under certain conditions. Complex legal issues can also arise in the event of revocation of naturalization due to deception or legal violations. Due to the scope and complexity of these issues, individual legal advice from a specialized attorney is recommended in every case.