Naturalizations in Potsdam: How long does it take and does an action for failure to act have any prospect of success?

The rising demand for naturalization is causing strain nationwide, but the problem is particularly evident in Potsdam . Anyone applying for naturalization here currently needs an extraordinary amount of patience. According to consistent reports from legal practice, naturalization procedures in Potsdam often take two to three years , and not infrequently even longer. This applies even to fully prepared and well-documented applications. Many cases remain stalled for months or years without applicants being informed of the processing status. These delays are therefore not a marginal phenomenon, but rather reflect a structural overload within the responsible authority.

Is an action for failure to act possible in Potsdam?

Legally, the situation is actually clear: If an authority fails to decide on an application for three months, an action for failure to act can be filed under Section 75 of the German Administrative Court Procedure Act (VwGO). This action is intended to put pressure on the administration and force a decision. In Potsdam, however, this instrument is hardly effective. Several applicants report that the Potsdam Administrative Court is conspicuously reluctant and often shows more understanding for the overburdened authority than for those affected, who have been waiting for years for their naturalization. Even after an action has been filed, administrative files are sometimes no longer processed at all, and the legal proceedings themselves often languish for a year or more without any significant progress. The action for failure to act thus largely loses its role as a means of acceleration because it is not vigorously supported by the court.

Despite this sobering practice, many are wondering whether filing a lawsuit early, even after the three-month deadline has expired, might still be worthwhile. For some applicants who are particularly dependent on a swift decision for professional or family reasons, this approach may be the only way to initiate any progress at all . Even if the chances of actually accelerating the process remain slim, an early lawsuit can seem sensible in individual cases if it is foreseeable that waiting for months will not yield better results. However, one thing is certain: there is currently no guarantee of a timely decision in Potsdam, either out of court or in court.

Conclusion on naturalization waiting times in Potsdam

Anyone wishing to apply for German citizenship in Potsdam should therefore expect lengthy processing times and manage their expectations realistically. A meticulous application and complete documentation are more important than ever to avoid exacerbating delays. At the same time, strategic legal counsel can help determine the right time for further legal action and assess whether an action for failure to act is advisable in the specific case. VISAGUARD is happy to assist you in understanding your case, obtaining realistic time estimates, and—if necessary—preparing legal steps such as an action for failure to act.