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Naturalization for students
Expert article in migration law
Naturalization for students – your path to German citizenship
The reform of German citizenship law makes it easier, especially for foreign students, to acquire German citizenship. The revised version of Section 10 of the German Citizenship Act (StAG) reduced the minimum period of residence to five years, making the naturalization process faster and easier. After completing a degree program in Germany, whether a bachelor's degree or a combination of these with a master's degree, many students have already spent almost five years in Germany. Students in these cases can now apply for German citizenship immediately afterward, without having to prove eight years of legal residence, as was previously the case.
Students who wish to apply for German citizenship must meet the following requirements:
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Five years of legal residence in Germany
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Permanent residence permit or a residence permit for purposes other than those specified in Sections 16a and 16b of the Residence Act (a residence permit for study purposes alone is not sufficient)
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B1 German skills
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Financial independence without social benefits
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No significant criminal convictions
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Commitment to the free and democratic basic order
The new legislation also makes dual citizenship possible, allowing students to retain their previous nationality.
§ 16b Residence Act – Residence permit for students in Germany
The residence permit for students pursuant to Section 16b of the Residence Act (AufenthG) allows international students to legally stay in Germany for the purpose of studying. Admission to a state or recognized university or comparable educational institution for full-time study is required.
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Requirements for a residence permit according to Section 16b of the Residence Act
To obtain a temporary residence permit, students must:
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Be admitted to full-time study at a recognized university or educational institution
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Complete preparatory measures such as language or preparatory courses, if necessary
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Prove sufficient financial means for living expenses
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Validity and extension of the residence permit
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First issue: Usually for 2 years
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Extension possible if studies are not yet completed
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For shorter study programs: Validity period corresponds to the duration of the study program
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Valid for at least 2 years for participants in EU or multilateral programs with university cooperation
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Important information about residence permits
The validity of the residence permit is tied to the duration of your studies. If you terminate your studies, your residence permit will usually expire shortly afterward. After successfully completing your studies with a degree, you may be able to obtain a new residence permit for the following purposes:
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Job search as a specialist
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Vocational training
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Qualified employment, e.g. the Blue Card
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Other activities requiring high practical skills
Avoid mistakes or delays and get professional support. Contact me now for an initial consultation!
German Citizenship for Students – Naturalization Requirements and Legal Information
Students seeking German citizenship must meet certain residency and naturalization requirements. Particularly important are the length of time they have lived in the country and their residence permit.
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Recognition of periods of residence for naturalization
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All periods of residence with a residence permit under the Residence Act, including those for study purposes, are recognized for the minimum period of stay.
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It is important that there is no longer stay abroad (maximum six months) between the end of your studies and the acquisition of a new residence permit. Your existing residence permit must remain valid during your stay abroad.
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Students with a residence permit according to Section 16b of the Residence Act (residence permit for study purposes) cannot apply for German citizenship directly.
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It is therefore necessary to secure a subsequent residence permit after completing your studies, such as Section 18b of the Residence Act - the employment permit for skilled workers with academic training.
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Requirements for naturalization as a student
In addition to the length of stay, applicants must:
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Prove clarified identity and nationality
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Proof of German language skills at B1 or higher
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Recognize the free and democratic basic order and refrain from pursuing anti-constitutional activities
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Be financially independent and only receive social benefits in exceptional cases
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Have no criminal record
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Demonstrate knowledge of the legal and social system in Germany
Our law firm ensures a quick and error-free application process, ensuring your path to German citizenship runs smoothly. Contact me for an initial consultation!
German citizenship through naturalization – step-by-step guide
Acquiring German citizenship through naturalization requires careful preparation and a flawless application. As a specialist lawyer for immigration law, you will guide you through the entire process and ensure a legally secure and efficient naturalization.
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Advice and application
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. Applicants must:
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Be at least 16 years old
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Pay a naturalization fee
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Submit required documents (education certificates, proof of income, language certificates)
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Naturalization test and official examination
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Registration for the naturalization test at the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees or the adult education center
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Examination of the application by German authorities such as the employment office, social welfare office, Federal Office of Justice, State Criminal Police Office and Office for the Protection of the Constitution
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Decision and approval of naturalization
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If all requirements are met and all documents are complete, naturalization will be granted.
Legal support for successful naturalization
Our immigration lawyers will ensure that your application meets the legal requirements and will guide you through all procedural steps.
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Checking your individual requirements
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Compilation and certification of the necessary documents
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Submission of the application to the competent authority
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Clarification of open questions with the immigration authorities
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Legal support in case of delays or rejections
Avoid mistakes and delays – contact me now for advice from an experienced citizenship lawyer!
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