Naturalization : Germany

Naturalization of foreigners, in other words, the granting of German nationality upon application, is governed by the provisions of the Nationality Act of 1913 and a number of special acts. Competence for naturalization lies primarily with the federal states. In order to facilitate the complete integration of foreigners who were born here or who have grown up here, or who have lived in the Federal Republic for at least 15 years, these persons have been granted a legal entitlement to naturalization under sections 85 ff. of the Aliens Act as amended on 30 June 1993.

The Federal Republic of Germany protects foreigners residing here from acts of violence just as it protects its own citizens. Violence against individuals is relentlessly prosecuted and severely punished, irrespective of whether it is committed by foreigners or against foreigners. In the name of Germany’s citizens, the Federal Government undertakes to ensure that Germany is and continues to be a country which is friendly to foreigners.