Process of Naturalization
Saxony-Anhalt welcomes, supports and encourages foreigners who would like to live here long-term and would like to gain German citizenship. In this way, you can take part in the social and political life here on an equal footing.
Whom do I turn to?
Rural districts and independent municipalities are the naturalization authorities. Turn to the naturalization agency of the rural district or the independent municipality where you live.
- If you live in Dessau-Roßlau, Halle (Saale) or Magdeburg, the city administration is responsible for naturalization.
- If you live in in a community affiliated with a district, the district administration is the naturalization authority.
Which documents are required?
Your individual situation determines what documents are required..
A certified copy or a photocopy of the original is sufficient for the documents.
- A document indicating civil status and passport must be presented in the original.
- A translation is also required for documents in a foreign language.
Tip: Get advice from the naturalization authority early on what documents you will have to present.
What fees apply?
Fees apply to naturalizations. If the request is withdrawn or rejected, the fee is reduced. In particular cases, additional costs may apply for the submission of documents indicating civil status, the demonstration of citizenship-related knowledge, language proficiency and for the abandonment of the previous citizenship.
What deadlines must I observe?
Deadlines must be observed in certain situations. Please turn to the responsible agency.
Legal basis
Right of appeal
The state administration office is the reviewing and supervisory authority.
Applications / forms
You must apply for naturalization in writing.
If you have reached 16 years of age, you can apply for naturalization yourself. If you are not yet 16 years of age, your legal representative must make the application.
Tip: Before you apply, you should consult with your naturalization agency. This may save you time and make additional inquiries unnecessary.
Tip: You are obligated to cooperate in the naturalization process.
If you are required to give up your current citizenship for your naturalization, you receive an assurance of naturalization when you submit all the remaining requirements. This will help you take all the required steps for your release from your current citizenship. The assurance is basically in effect for two years and can be extended if necessary
What else should I know?
The naturalization certificate will be personally presented to you in a naturalization ceremony. In the course of the naturalization ceremony, you will declare orally and solemnly that you will observe the Constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany and will refrain from doing any harm to the Federal Republic of Germany. This solemn promise should confirm the commitment to the free and democratic basic order, made in writing in the naturalization application. With the presentation of the naturalization certificate, you have become a German citizen.
You then take your naturalization certificate to your registration office and apply for your German personal identity card.