Discovering your roots might start a journey to get double citizenship, in particular, for those who are of German descent. The guide deals with the process of getting German citizenship by place of birth, and at the same time maintains the connection with your culture and benefits from being a citizen of a key European state.
Eligibility for German Citizenship by Descent
German law provides several pathways to claim citizenship through descent, depending on your parents’ marital status and your date of birth:
Parental German Citizenship (1914–1974):
Eligible if they were born to German parents before they got married (the marriage took place later) and before, during this period, the father had fulfilled all the relevant juridical requirements for being considered a German citizen.
Mother’s German Citizenship (1964–1974):
If both the mother was German and the father did not qualify as German, and besides carrying a risk of being stateless, the person was eligible for this program.
Parent’s German Citizenship (Post-1975):
German citizens whose parents were born on or after 01/01/1975 have the right to be given citizenship if he/she decides to request such.
Mother’s German Heritage (Post-1914):
Applicants must be who were born at the time of their mothers’ being German citizens, even if they were single.
Father’s German Heritage (Post-1993):
Additionally, Those who are German citizens if their fathers had declared paternity or are unmarried and born out of wedlock fathered by a German citizen.
Declaration of German Citizenship (Pre-1993):
People born from unmarried parents who took place before the 1st of July 1993, and having a German father, will have three years’ grace to declare citizenship up to their 23rd birthday.
Delayed Parental Marriage (1914–1998):
General eligibility is dated for the cases of married parents whose marriage occurred after the date of the birth, and only if the birth took place within the specified dates.
Changes in German Nationality Law
Presently, the German Nationality Act allows individuals who were born after May 23, 1949, to German mothers who had to renounce their citizenship due to marriage to non-German butter to restore their citizenship and remedy discriminatory past regulations that targeted gender.
Seeking Legal Expertise
German nationality law is a complex issue is a complex theme. To find out if you meet the requirements and to increase the probability that your application will be successful, it would be sensible to talk to immigration lawyers who have dealt with such cases before, such as the specialists in Schlun & Elseven.
Benefits of German Citizenship by Descent
Freedom of Movement:
As a German citizen, you gain the right to live and work in Germany without needing a residence permit. This extends to all EU countries, allowing for unrestricted movement and employment opportunities across Europe.
Dual Citizenship:
Germany recognizes dual citizenship under certain conditions, meaning you can retain your original nationality while enjoying the benefits of German citizenship. This flexibility can be advantageous for personal and professional reasons.
Voting Rights:
German citizens have the right to vote in federal and state elections, as well as in European Parliament elections. This participation in the democratic process allows you to influence political decisions and policies.
Access to Education:
Citizens can study at public universities in Germany without paying tuition fees, significantly reducing educational expenses. This benefit also applies to studying in other EU countries, where education is often more affordable for EU citizens.
Employment Opportunities:
With German citizenship, you can access a broader range of job opportunities, including positions in civil service and other roles that may require citizenship. The ability to work in any EU country further enhances career prospects.
Residency Security:
Citizenship eliminates concerns about residency status, providing stability and security in your living situation. You no longer need to renew residency permits or worry about potential deportation.
Diplomatic Protection:
As a citizen, you are entitled to diplomatic protection from the German government when abroad, which can be crucial in emergencies or legal matters.
Cultural Connection:
Obtaining citizenship by descent strengthens your ties to Germany and its culture, allowing you to engage more fully with your heritage and community.
Property Ownership:
Citizenship facilitates property ownership across the EU without additional permits, enabling investment opportunities in various European markets.
Retirement Options:
Citizens can choose to retire anywhere within the EU, benefiting from diverse lifestyles and climates while enjoying access to social services and healthcare systems in those countries.
Application Process for German Citizenship by Descent
To apply for German citizenship by descent, follow these steps:
Gather Documentation:
Collect documents that prove your parentage and family history, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, certificates of descent, family books, and also evidence of citizenship possession or loss.
Police Clearance:
Obtain a certificate of good conduct from the police authorities in your country of residence.
Impunity Proof:
Provide evidence of not being convicted to imprisonment or youth detention for two or more years.
Additional Documentation:
Depending on your circumstances, additional documents might be required. The Federal Office of Administration (BVA) will guide you.
Keep Your Current Nationality
If you obtain German citizenship by descent, you can usually maintain your current nationality. However, whether you can hold dual citizenship depends on the laws of your current country.
Alternate Paths to German Citizenship
- Work in Germany: Get a job and an application for a work permit to get the chance to be a resident permanently.
- Study in Germany: Enroll in avocational courses, which can assert your ability to stay in the country permanently.
- Invest in Germany: Aim at creating a business, spur industrial development, and create job openings.
- Job-Seeker Visa: Enter Germany with a six-month work look-out visa to seek work.
Besides, being German by descent not only connects you to your ancestry but also grants you the privilege of enjoying the pleasures of living in a culturally affluent and economically well-established nation. Make sure to consult lawyers with in-depth knowledge to facilitate your success in the process.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your German Citizenship straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Family Reunion Visa or an Immigrant Investor Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas have a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit Germany. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
