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Determination of German citizenship
Lawyer explains: This is how the determination procedure for German citizenship works at the Federal Office of Administration (BVA).
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1. Determination of German citizenship
2. Application for a determination of German citizenship
3. Procedure for the determination process
4. Information on the assessment procedure
5. FAQ Determination Procedure
6. Conclusion on the determination procedure
1. Determination of German citizenship
The determination of German citizenship is regulated in Section 30 of the Nationality Act (StAG) . It serves to definitively clarify whether a person possesses German citizenship or not. The legislature has thus created an independent procedure to resolve cases of doubt regarding the existence or non-existence of German citizenship. Such doubts can arise, in particular, if one of the grounds for revocation exists but a definitive decision has not yet been made. The decision is binding for all German authorities – for example, in matters concerning passports or voting rights.
The procedure can be initiated either at the request of the person concerned or ex officio in cases of public interest. A public interest in the determination exists, for example, if it has legal consequences for the general public or the state – such as clarifying civil servant status or registration in electoral rolls. In all other cases, a personal, so-called legitimate interest must be credibly demonstrated in order for the application to be processed.
2. Application for a determination of German citizenship
An application for a determination of German citizenship is particularly useful if one's citizenship is unclear or if an authority – for example, abroad – requires documentary proof. Individuals whose German passport has expired or whose naturalization documents are incomplete can obtain official confirmation in this way. However, those who already possess a valid German passport generally have no legitimate interest in applying, as their citizenship is not in question.
The application must be submitted to the competent citizenship authority at your place of residence. For Germans permanently residing abroad, the Federal Office of Administration in Cologne is responsible. The application can then be submitted via the Federal Office of Administration's website , where all relevant information sheets can also be found. The application can also include a request for a certificate of citizenship – the document that definitively proves German citizenship. Once this certificate is issued, the determination of citizenship is automatically considered established.
3. Procedure for the determination process
In the determination procedure, the authority examines whether German citizenship has been acquired and whether it continues to exist . After submission of the documents, the citizenship authority reviews the facts and then informs you of the result by means of a determination notice. In cases of doubt, proof does not need to be provided with absolute certainty; it is sufficient if the existence of citizenship is established with a reasonable degree of probability . The decisive factor is that the circumstances supporting German citizenship outweigh any indications to the contrary. Therefore, complete and uninterrupted documentation is not mandatory.
Acceptable evidence includes written documents such as birth and marriage certificates, extracts from registration records, military service records, or appointment certificates as a civil servant. Mere witness statements are insufficient. In exceptional cases, the authority may also consider sworn affidavits if no other evidence is available. If the application is rejected, the decision can be challenged in court byfiling an objection and subsequently an action for performance .
4. Information on the assessment procedure
Applicants incur a fee of €51 in the determination procedure, unless the application is submitted ex officio. Only in these exceptional cases is the procedure free of charge. Since the determination of German citizenship is a standard administrative procedure , the general provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (VwVfG) apply. This means, in particular, that the authority is obligated to investigate ex officio, to hear the parties involved, and that there is a right to inspect the files .
Legal fees are typically based on a value in dispute of €10,000 per applicant. Since the process can be legally complex, for example, in cases of unclear evidence or when the loss of EU citizenship is at risk, legal advice specializing in citizenship law is generally recommended. An experienced lawyer can not only assist with the application but also ensure that the process is conducted properly in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act.
5. FAQ
When should I apply for a determination of my German citizenship?
An application is advisable if your German citizenship is unclear or if authorities – for example, abroad – require formal proof. Typical cases include unresolved questions of ancestry, missing or lost documents, or doubts about previous naturalizations.
Which authority is responsible for the application?
Within Germany, the local citizenship authority is responsible. For Germans permanently residing abroad, the Federal Office of Administration (BVA) in Cologne handles the process.
6. Conclusion
The determination procedure under Section 30 of the German Nationality Act (StAG) is the central instrument for definitively clarifying whether a person possesses German citizenship. It is particularly relevant when there is uncertainty or when formal proof of citizenship is required. Since a preponderance of evidence is sufficient, cases without complete documentation can also be successfully concluded. At the same time, it is a legally complex procedure that delves deeply into personal circumstances and family lines. Those who rely on reliable proof—for example, abroad, when dealing with authorities, or in connection with passport and voting rights issues—often benefit from legal counsel. A carefully prepared determination procedure provides clarity, avoids future problems, and ensures that all aspects of citizenship law are correctly assessed.
Further Information
Apply to the Federal Office of Administration (BVA) for confirmation of German citizenship
Apply for confirmation of German citizenship at the KVR Munich
Apply for a certificate of citizenship (Service Portal Berlin)
Determination of German citizenship at the state capital Düsseldorf
Information on determining German citizenship at German embassies in the USA
List of Sources (Paywall)
[1] Hailbronner/Kau/Gnatzy/Weber, Nationality Law, 7th edition 2022, § 30
[2] Oberhäuser in Hofmann, Foreigners' Law | Nationality Act § 30 | 3rd edition 2023
[3] EUStAÜb: 7th European Convention on Nationality, text of the regulations in Hailbronner/Kau/Gnatzy/Weber, Nationality Law
[4] BeckOK AuslR/Weber, 42nd Ed. July 1, 2024, StAG, § 30
[5] Procedural guidelines for residence in Berlin (VAB), as of 18 February 2025, section S