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Naturalization in Hamburg
Find out all the important information about naturalization in Hamburg (documents, appointment, application, processing time)
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1. Naturalization in Hamburg
2. Naturalization in Hamburg online
3. Documents for naturalization in Hamburg
4. Naturalization process in Hamburg
5. Date and processing time for naturalization in Hamburg
6. FAQ
7. Conclusion
1. Naturalization in Hamburg
Naturalization in Hamburg offers numerous advantages, including a secure (and irrevocable) right of residence, the right to vote and stand for election, freedom of travel with a German passport, and access to social benefits. Around 13,000 applications for naturalization are submitted annually in Hamburg. In 2023, 7,357 people received German citizenship. The Office for Migration of the Ministry of the Interior and Sport, specifically its Naturalization Department, is responsible for processing the applications.
2. Naturalization in Hamburg online
The application for naturalization can be submitted online in Hamburg. This means you have the option of applying for naturalization digitally. Use the quick check beforehand to ensure you meet all the naturalization requirements. For online naturalization, you must upload all documents and sign the application online. If you have done everything correctly, the naturalization authority will have your application directly in the correct file and will then process it promptly. The online process in Hamburg can be initiated using the "Naturalization Application Service" on the website .
3. Documents for naturalization in Hamburg
The following documents are required for the naturalization application in Hamburg:
Valid passport
Current residence permit
Civil status documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree or death certificate of the spouse), if necessary with translation, legalization or apostille
Employment contract and proof of income (for self-employed persons: business registration, income tax assessment and proof of profit)
Proof of sufficient German language skills (language level B1); for children under 16 years of age, age-appropriate language development is sufficient
Proof of civic knowledge (e.g. through the “Living in Germany” certificate or the naturalization test) from the age of 16
Written commitment to the free democratic basic order and declaration of loyaltyrental agreement
Proof of health insurance
Proof of retirement provision (e.g. pension insurance history)
Pupils and students: Current school or study certificate or proof of qualifications obtained in Germany
Pensioners: Pension notice or pension insurance history from the German Pension Insurance
Minors: Proof of custody or consent of the other parent with custody
In individual cases, the naturalization authority may request additional documents. However, this depends on the specific case.
4. Naturalization process in Hamburg
The naturalization process begins with an online quick check , which allows an initial assessment of whether the requirements for naturalization are met. This is followed by the online application, in which the application is submitted along with all required documents. Upon receipt of the application, the responsible authority checks for completeness of the documents and requests any missing evidence. A processing fee of €255.00 per person is required. If children are naturalized, the fee is €51.00 per child. This fee is usually due upon receipt of the naturalization certificate.
5. Date and processing time for naturalization in Hamburg
An initial consultation is no longer required for naturalization in Hamburg. The authority automatically schedules an appointment after the application has been submitted. During the appointment, the original documents will be reviewed and, if necessary, a short interview in German will be conducted to assess language skills.
The average processing time is currently more than twelve months. However, according to Section 75 of the Administrative Court Act (VwGO), the authority may not take longer than three months to process a case. If this deadline is exceeded, an action for failure to act can be filed. One of our lawyers would be happy to advise you on this matter.
6. FAQ
How can I apply for naturalization in Hamburg?
Hamburg offers the option of submitting a naturalization application digitally. You can use an online quick check beforehand to determine whether all requirements have been met. Applications submitted by mail will not be processed.
Where can I take the naturalization test and how do I prepare for it?
The naturalization test can be taken at recognized testing centers. A list of these testing centers and information on registration are available from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF).
What documents are required for the naturalization application?
The required documents include: a valid passport or proof of identity, proof of legal residence, proof of language proficiency (at least B1 level), proof of secure livelihood, confirmation of passing the naturalization test, and a current CV. Depending on your individual situation, additional documents may be required.
7. Conclusion
Naturalization in Hamburg enables the acquisition of German citizenship and offers advantages such as secure residency rights, the right to vote, and freedom of travel with a German passport. The application can be submitted online via the “Naturalization Application Service.” All required documents, including passport , residence permit, proof of income, and proof of language proficiency (at least B1 level), must be uploaded. Once the application has been received, the naturalization authority will review the documents, schedule an appointment for the originals to be presented, and charge a processing fee of €255 per person. The processing time is currently more than twelve months, but according to Section 75 of the Administrative Court Act (VwGO), this may generally not take longer than three months .
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List of Sources (Paywall)
[1] NDR, New record for naturalizations in Hamburg, 30.12.2024