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Naturalization from abroad
All information on naturalization from abroad based on ties to Germany (§ 14 StAG).
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when you can apply for naturalization from abroad
What are the requirements for naturalization abroad?
what “ties to Germany” are
when there is a public interest in naturalization abroad
1. Naturalization from abroad
2. Naturalization based on special ties to Germany
3. Requirements for naturalization based on special ties (“genuine link”)
4. Naturalization process for foreign nationals
5. FAQ Naturalization from abroad
6. Conclusion: Naturalization from abroad
1. Naturalization from abroad
Naturalization from abroad is an exception under German citizenship law, as naturalization generally requires the applicant to reside in Germany . However, there are certain cases in which naturalization is possible without residence in Germany.
Naturalization from abroad is particularly possible in the following cases:
Naturalization of former Germans ( § 13 StAG )
Naturalization as compensation ( Art. 116 para. 2 GG , § 15 StAG )
Naturalization based on special ties to Germany ( § 14 StAG )
This article focuses primarily on the requirements for naturalization based on special ties to Germany (§ 14 StAG).
2. Naturalization based on special ties to Germany
Naturalization under Section 14 of the Nationality Act (StAG) is a special form of discretionary naturalization and is primarily aimed at people living abroad. Unlike regular naturalization procedures, there is no automatic entitlement to citizenship. Rather, the competent German authority examines each application individually and decides at its own discretion whether naturalization will be granted. The decision depends on a multitude of factors that take into account the applicant's personal, professional, and social circumstances.
It is therefore all the more important that applicants meet the strict requirements for naturalization under Section 14 of the German Nationality Act (StAG) and prepare their application carefully. This includes, among other things, the complete and correct submission of all required documents, verifiable proof of living circumstances abroad, and, if applicable , an explanation of why naturalization should be at the discretion of the authorities . Only if these requirements are met does an application have a chance of success, as the authorities' decision may otherwise be negative.
3. Requirements for naturalization based on special ties (“genuine link”)
When naturalization is granted based on special ties to Germany, the Federal Office of Administration individually assesses whether there is a public interest in the naturalization. The Federal Office of Administration therefore decides whether your naturalization is advantageous from a German perspective. This is usually the case when there are special economic, cultural, or scientific connections to Germany. While the requirement of a public interest for naturalization according to Section 14 of the Nationality Act (StAG) is not explicitly stated in the law, it is established case law of the Federal Administrative Court.
For naturalization under Section 14 of the German Nationality Act (StAG), a close connection to Germany is also mandatory. This includes, among other things:
Regular stays in Germany
Close contact with relatives and friends in Germany
Real estate ownership in Germany
Professional or economic interests in Germany
Apart from public interest and special ties to Germany, the general requirements for naturalization must also be met. The Federal Office of Administration requires, in particular, that applicants can support themselves in their current country of origin without state assistance . This includes adequate insurance coverage in case of illness, need for long-term care, or disability. As a rule, it is also necessary that the applicant for naturalization has no criminal record .
4. Naturalization process for foreign nationals
The naturalization process for foreign nationals differs from regular naturalization applications. The application should not be submitted directly to the Federal Office of Administration (BVA), but first to the responsible German diplomatic mission abroad (embassy or consulate). This mission reviews the documents and forwards the application to the BVA with its own statement. The BVA often requests additional documents during the course of the process, which is why submitting a complete application early is crucial.
Because naturalization is a discretionary process involving several authorities, the application process for foreign nationals can take several months or even years. The key to success lies in careful preparation and a convincing explanation of why naturalization is in Germany's interest. Professional advice can significantly increase the chances of success, as errors in the application and insufficient documentation often lead to rejection.
5. FAQ Naturalization from abroad
Which naturalizations can be applied for from abroad?
The following naturalizations can be applied for from abroad:
Naturalization of former Germans (§ 13 StAG)
Naturalization as compensation (Art. 116 para. 2 GG, § 15 StAG)
Naturalization based on special ties to Germany (§ 14 StAG)
Does naturalization from abroad necessarily have to take place at the foreign mission?
Generally, the German embassy or consulate abroad must be involved in naturalization applications from foreign nationals. However, this is not always mandatory. In certain cases, naturalization from abroad can also be applied for directly at the Federal Office of Administration.
What are “ties to Germany”?
Naturalization under Section 14 of the German Nationality Act (StAG) requires "ties to Germany." Such ties exist, for example, if the applicant has studied or attended school in Germany, or if other family members are also from Germany. A special connection to German culture or politics can also justify naturalization under Section 14 of the StAG.
6. Conclusion
Naturalization from abroad based on special ties to Germany is an exception under German citizenship law. It offers individuals without residence in Germany the opportunity to acquire German citizenship – provided there is a public interest in the naturalization and close personal, cultural, economic, or scientific connections to Germany exist. Since naturalization is discretionary, the Federal Office of Administration reviews each application individually. In addition to the special ties, the general requirements for naturalization must also be met, such as financial independence, language skills, and a clean criminal record. The application is usually submitted through a German diplomatic mission abroad and can involve a lengthy process. Careful preparation and professional advice significantly increase the chances of success. Those who can credibly demonstrate that their naturalization is in Germany's interest have a good prospect of success.
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List of Sources (Paywall)
[1] Hailbronner/Kau/Gnatzy/Weber, Nationality Law, 7th edition 2022
[4] migrationsrecht.net , Online commentary on the Nationality Act (StAG)