German citizenship certificate

All information about the German citizenship certificate (proof of citizenship).

Picture of citizenship certificate/yellow certificate

About this Page

what a certificate of nationality is
what the difference is to other identity documents
what the proof of citizenship is used for
how to apply for a certificate of nationality

Table of Contents

1. What is a certificate of nationality?

2. What is the purpose of a certificate of nationality?

3. Proof of citizenship

4. Apply for a certificate of citizenship (PDF application)

5. FAQ Citizenship Certificate

6. Conclusion on the certificate of citizenship

1. What is a certificate of nationality?

The certificate of German citizenship is an official document that legally confirms German citizenship . It is issued by the competent citizenship authority and serves as formal proof of citizenship within the meaning of Section 30 Paragraph 3 of the German Nationality Act (StAG) . It is issued upon application or – in certain cases – ex officio. This distinguishes the certificate of German citizenship from other documents that merely provide indications of German citizenship, such as the identity card or passport.

Legally, the certificate of citizenship is classified as a declaratory administrative act (§ 35 VwVfG). The certificate has binding effect once issued, regardless of whether it is an "old" or "new" certificate. Even earlier certificates of citizenship issued before August 28, 2007, remain valid, as their issuance has a legally binding effect. The issuing authority is obligated to issue proof of citizenship in this form if the requirements are met.

2. What is the purpose of the certificate of nationality?

This document is primarily required in procedures where proof of German citizenship is legally significant . These include, for example, inheritance cases, civil service examinations, proceedings with foreign authorities, and the renewal of passports by foreign states. In these cases, proof of German citizenship may be required even without a physical German passport. Therefore, it is possible, particularly for Germans living abroad, to have German citizenship but not a German passport.

In certain cases, a so-called certificate of non-existence may also be required – that is, confirmation that no German citizenship exists. The certificate of non-existence is essentially the opposite of a certificate of citizenship . Its legal basis was established only with the reform of Section 30 of the German Nationality Act (StAG) . It plays a role primarily when foreign embassies need to check, before renewing a passport, whether a person may have acquired another citizenship. The certificate of citizenship thus serves not only as proof of German citizenship but also to avoid conflicts between national citizenship regulations.

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3. Proof of citizenship

The certificate of German citizenship is legally valid proof of citizenship. It should not be confused with an identity card or passport . These documents merely presume German citizenship without formally confirming it. While someone who possesses a German identity card is generally considered German, this proof is not legally binding if their citizenship is disputed or questioned.

Only a certificate of citizenship definitively establishes or proves citizenship. In cases of dispute, such as unclear parentage , naturalization , or complex cases involving dual citizenship , it is the authoritative document. Its issuance can therefore be enforced through legal action if the authorities reject the application. In such cases, after an unsuccessful appeal, it is possible to file a lawsuit to compel issuance. This is particularly important when proof of citizenship is absolutely essential.

4. Apply for a certificate of citizenship (PDF application)

The citizenship authority at the applicant's place of residence is responsible for issuing the certificate. Persons with permanent residence abroad submit their application to the Federal Office of Administration in Cologne . The application includes a determination of German citizenship and the issuance of the certificate in accordance with Section 30 Paragraph 3 Sentence 1 of the German Nationality Act (StAG). If the certificate is issued, it simultaneously includes the determination of citizenship.

A fee of €51.00 is generally charged for issuing the certificate. The procedure is free of charge only if it is initiated ex officio. Legal representation in proceedings for the issuance of a certificate of citizenship is based on a value in dispute of €10,000 per applicant. Upon successful determination of citizenship, the certificate is issued in paper form and is valid indefinitely.

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5. FAQ Citizenship Certificate

Why do I need a certificate of citizenship?

A certificate of nationality is always required when German nationality needs to be proven definitively and without doubt – for example, in dealings with foreign authorities, in inheritance cases, in civil service law, or when nationality is questioned for other reasons.

What is the difference between a certificate of nationality, an identity card, and a passport?

Identity cards and passports presuppose German citizenship, but do not confirm it.

Who issues the certificate of nationality?

The citizenship authority at the place of residence is responsible. For Germans living abroad, the Federal Office of Administration in Cologne is responsible.

Can I sue for a certificate of citizenship?

Yes. If the application is rejected, an action for performance can be brought after an unsuccessful appeal. The courts can then compel the authority to determine the applicant's citizenship and issue the identity card.

Is a certificate also available if the applicant does not have German citizenship?

Yes. The so-called certificate of non-existence confirms the lack of German citizenship. It plays a particularly important role in proceedings involving foreign authorities.

6. Conclusion on the Certificate of Nationality

The certificate of German citizenship is the most reliable and legally binding document for proving German citizenship. While identity cards and passports are merely based on this, the certificate of German citizenship makes a formal determination – with permanently valid legal effect. It is often indispensable for people with unclear ancestry , for Germans living abroad, or in legally complex situations. Anyone who wants to ensure that their German citizenship is unequivocally recognized should consider applying for a certificate of German citizenship. The application process is clearly regulated, relatively inexpensive, and ultimately provides lifelong, legally binding proof of citizenship.