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Naturalization in Berlin

Apply for German citizenship

Progress0 of 4 steps completed
4 Schritte · ca. 3 Minuten0%

✓ Du bist in 3 Minuten fertig

Step 1

Check requirements

Before applying, you must ensure you meet all requirements. The main ones: residence, language, livelihood.

⚠️Since June 2024: 5 years residence (standard) or 3 years with special integration achievements (C1 + work/volunteering).
Check before applying💰 0 € (nur Prüfung)
💡 Tips
  • 5 years legal residence (since June 2024)
  • With special integration achievements: possible after 3 years (C1 German + work/volunteering)
  • German skills: at least B1
  • Own livelihood without social benefits
  • No criminal record
  • Dual citizenship allowed since 2024!
Step 2

Take naturalization test

The test has 33 questions about Germany, politics and history. You need at least 17 correct answers to pass.

⚠️The test is required. But don't worry: 98% pass on first try if they practice online beforehand.
Before naturalization application💰 25 €

📄 Required Documents

💡 Tips
  • Practice all 310 questions online (free at BAMF)
  • 33 questions in test (30 nationwide + 3 about Berlin)
  • 60 minutes time
  • Test can be repeated unlimited times
  • VHS Berlin offers test and preparation courses
Step 3If you don't have a B1 certificate yet

Get B1 language certificate

You need an official B1 certificate for German. Accepted are telc, Goethe-Institut or DTZ (integration course).

⚠️B2 level not mandatory for naturalization, but helpful for application and career.
Before naturalization application💰 150 - 250 € (Prüfung)

📄 Required Documents

💡 Tips
  • DTZ from integration course is recognized
  • German school certificate may also suffice
  • VHS Berlin: many locations, affordable courses
  • Goethe-Institut Berlin: high-quality exams
  • With C1 + work/volunteering: naturalization possible after just 3 years!
Step 4

Submit naturalization application

Naturalization applications in Berlin are submitted at the State Office for Immigration (LEA). The application can be submitted online!

⚠️Processing time 12-24 months in Berlin. Applying early is worth it. Since 2024 dual citizenship is allowed!
When all requirements are met💰 255 € (Erwachsene) / 51 € (Kinder)

📄 Required Documents

💡 Tips
  • LEA Berlin: Friedrich-Krause-Ufer 24, 13353 Berlin
  • Processing time: 12-24 months
  • Since 2024: Dual citizenship allowed!
  • Online application via service.berlin.de possible
  • Foreign documents: translation + apostille required

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have time?
Vor Antragstellung prüfen
What does it cost?
0 € (nur Prüfung), 25 €, 150 - 250 € (Prüfung), 255 € (Erwachsene) / 51 € (Kinder)
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Seit Juni 2024: 5 Jahre Aufenthalt (Standard) oder frühestens 5 Jahre).

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