🇩🇪

Naturalization in Düsseldorf

Apply for German citizenship

Progress0 of 5 steps completed
5 Schritte · ca. 4 Minuten0%

✓ Du bist in 4 Minuten fertig

Step 1

Check requirements

Check if you meet the requirements for naturalization: 8 years residence (or 5-6 for special integration achievements), secure livelihood, B1 language skills.

⚠️Since 2024: Dual citizenship generally allowed – no need to give up previous citizenship!
⏰ No deadline💰 0 €
💡 Tips
  • 8 years legal residence (5 years with special integration)
  • Permanent residence permit or settlement permit
  • German language skills at least B1
  • Naturalization test passed
  • No criminal convictions (minor offenses excluded)
  • Livelihood secured without social benefits
  • Commitment to free democratic basic order
Check requirements↗
Step 2

Take naturalization test

Register for the naturalization test (Life in Germany) at VHS or another test center. The test examines knowledge about law, history and society.

⚠️33 questions, 17 must be correct. Test can be repeated as often as needed.
⏰ Before application💰 25 €

📄 Required Documents

💡 Tips
  • VHS Düsseldorf offers test and preparation courses
  • 33 questions (30 general + 3 about NRW), 60 minutes
  • At least 17 correct answers to pass
  • Free practice material: bamf.de
  • Test waived with German school diploma
VHS Düsseldorf↗
Step 3

Book appointment for application

Book an appointment online at the Düsseldorf naturalization authority. Fill out the online appointment form in advance.

⚠️Long waiting times possible – book appointment early!
⏰ After meeting all requirements💰 0 €
💡 Tips
  • Online appointment booking via duesseldorf.de
  • Naturalization authority: Redlichstraße 2a, 40239 Düsseldorf
  • Tel. 0211 89-91 | Email: staatsangehoerigkeit@duesseldorf.de
  • Ground-level entrance, barrier-free
Book appointment↗
Step 4

Submit naturalization application

Submit the naturalization application in person at your appointment. Bring all required documents as originals and copies.

⚠️Fee due at application – €255 for adults, €51 for children naturalized together.
⏰ At appointment💰 255 € (Erwachsene), 51 € (Kinder mit Eltern)

📄 Required Documents

💡 Tips
  • Bring all documents as original + copy
  • Foreign language documents: Certified translation required
  • Cash payment fee: +€1 surcharge
  • Processing time: Several months to 1 year
  • Application under § 10 StAG (entitlement naturalization)
Application form↗
Step 5

Receive naturalization certificate

After positive review you'll be invited to the naturalization ceremony. There you make the solemn declaration and receive your naturalization certificate.

⚠️With receipt of the certificate you are a German citizen – congratulations!
⏰ After application processing💰 Inkl. in Antragsgebühr

📄 Required Documents

💡 Tips
  • Solemn declaration: 'I solemnly declare that I will respect the Basic Law...'
  • With certificate: Apply for ID card and passport at citizen office
  • Keep certificate safe – if lost only positive confirmation possible
  • Voting rights: Immediately for all elections in Germany
Citizen office appointment↗

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have time?
Keine Frist
What does it cost?
0 €, 25 €, 0 €, 255 € (Erwachsene), 51 € (Kinder mit Eltern), Inkl. in Antragsgebühr
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Seit 2024: Doppelte Staatsangehörigkeit generell erlaubt – keine Aufgabe der bisherigen Staatsangehörigkeit mehr nötig!

🔗 Related Topics

Visa & residenceDüsseldorfNew to GermanyDüsseldorf