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Naturalization for ethnic German repatriates
All information on the topic of German citizenship for ethnic German repatriates and family reunification for ethnic German repatriates.
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what late repatriates are
Difference between late repatriates, ethnic Germans with German status, and resettlers
Citizenship requirements for ethnic German repatriates
how family reunification for ethnic German repatriates works
1. What are late repatriates?
2. Requirements for Recognition and Naturalization of Late Resettlers
3. Legal acquisition of citizenship: Certificate pursuant to Section 15 BVFG
4. Family reunification for ethnic German resettlers
5. FAQ Late repatriates
6. Conclusion on late repatriates
1. What are late repatriates?
Late repatriates are ethnic Germans from the states of the former Soviet Union and other Eastern European countries who have entered Germany since January 1, 1993, through a clearly regulated admission procedure . The legal basis for this is the Federal Expellees Act (BVFG) . Those recognized as late repatriates are entitled – provided certain requirements are met – to acquire German citizenship. Recognition is primarily based on German ancestry and a personal commitment to German culture.
People who entered Germany before 1993 are referred to as " status Germans" or "resettlers ." "Status Germans" were Germans without German citizenship as defined in Article 116, Paragraph 1 of the Basic Law – a status that was automatically converted into German citizenship on August 1, 1999. The term "late repatriate" therefore applies exclusively to people who came to Germany from 1993 onwards through the regulated admission procedure. This historical distinction remains relevant today, as late repatriates benefit from a modern, legally clearly defined recognition and naturalization process.
2. Requirements for Recognition and Naturalization of Late Resettlers
For a person to be recognized as a late repatriate, several integration and origin requirements must be met. First, German ethnicity must be credibly demonstrated – for example, through German ancestors, the transmission of the German language within the family, or through an official declaration of German nationality in the country of origin (see Section 6 of the Federal Expellees Act ). This declaration can be explicitly made, arise automatically from the law of the country of origin, or be recognizable "in other ways," such as through the cultivation of German culture or family traditions.
Another key component of the recognition process is proof of basic German language skills (usually at levels A2–B1). This language certificate serves to confirm cultural affiliation and facilitate integration in Germany. Exceptions may apply in cases of permanent health reasons. If the application is approved and the late repatriate certificate is issued in accordance with Section 15 of the Federal Expellees Act (BVFG) , German citizenship is acquired by operation of law – without the need for an additional naturalization procedure.
3. Legal acquisition of citizenship: Certificate pursuant to Section 15 BVFG
German citizenship for ethnic German repatriates is automatically acquired upon issuance of a certificate of ethnic German repatriation or related party status pursuant to Section 15 of the Federal Expellees Act (BVFG). This certificate has declaratory effect, meaning that legal status as a German citizen arises upon entry into Germany based on the acceptance notice – the certificate merely confirms this. Nevertheless, it is crucial, as it serves as legally binding proof of German citizenship for all authorities.
Since 2005, the Federal Office of Administration (BVA) has been solely responsible for issuing the certificate. It is generally issued immediately after registration at the reception center and a security check. If the certificate is revoked within five years due to false information or deception, this can – depending on the individual case – lead to the loss of German citizenship. The Federal Expellees Act (BVFG) contains a special revocation provision for this, which corresponds to the revocation of a fraudulently obtained naturalization.
4. Family reunification for ethnic German resettlers
Spouses, minor children, and other family members have special options for entering Germany together with a resettler of German origin . The most favorable and common option is direct inclusion in the acceptance notice or inclusion in an appendix to the notice. Spouses generally need to have been married for at least three years and demonstrate basic German language skills (A1 level). Minor children do not need a language certificate if they enter Germany before their 18th birthday. Anyone included in this way automatically acquires German citizenship, just like the resettler themselves.
If joint entry is not possible, family reunification can occur later under the Residence Act . Significantly less stringent requirements apply to ethnic German repatriates: According to Section 28 Paragraph 1 Sentence 3 of the Residence Act, a residence permit is generally granted for spousal reunification even if the spouse's livelihood is not secured. This acknowledges Germany's historical responsibility towards ethnic German repatriates. Nevertheless, basic integration efforts – particularly basic German language skills – are still required unless an exceptional case applies.
5. FAQ Late repatriates
Who is considered a late repatriate?
Late repatriates are persons of German descent from the states of the former Soviet Union or other Eastern European countries who entered Germany after January 1, 1993, as part of an admission procedure under the Federal Expellees Act (BVFG).
What language skills are required?
As a rule, ethnic German repatriates must demonstrate basic language skills at levels A2–B1. Spouses joining their families in Germany need at least level A1 (e.g., "Start Deutsch 1"). Children under 18 are often exempt from language tests.
Does family reunification also apply without a secure livelihood?
Yes – according to Section 28 Paragraph 1 Sentence 3 of the Residence Act, a more lenient standard applies to spousal reunification with ethnic German resettlers. A lack of secure means of subsistence is not necessarily grounds for rejection. However, a basic willingness to integrate (e.g., through German language skills) is still expected.
Can VISAGUARD help with the application process?
Yes. We connect you with competent specialist lawyers who can support you with the application process, family reunification planning, or citizenship matters. Simply book an initial consultation directly through our portal.
6. Conclusion on late repatriates
Late repatriates, due to their German ancestry and their special legal status under the Federal Expellees Act (BVFG), have easier access to German citizenship. The legally regulated admission process ensures that cultural and linguistic ties to Germany exist. Family reunification is also possible under certain conditions—such as basic German language skills and family connections—and is legally facilitated. Overall, the procedure underscores Germany's special responsibility toward this group and promotes their integration into society.
List of Sources (Paywall)
[1] Marx, Residence, Asylum and Refugee Law, 8th edition 2023
[2] Visa Handbook, Late Resettlers, 75th Supplement, Version: 08/2022