Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – German Dual Citizenship

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Yes. German nationality law is based primarily on descent (Abstammung). If you can document an unbroken line from a German ancestor, even several generations back, you may still be entitled to German citizenship. The key is providing the correct civil records (birth, marriage, naturalization, etc.).

No residence or language requirement applies.
 

Typical documents include:

• German records of your ancestor (birth, baptism, marriage, naturalization, or passports).
• Civil registry certificates from your country (birth, marriage, death).
• Proof of continuity of nationality (e.g., that the ancestor did not lose German citizenship before passing it on).

All foreign documents must usually be translated into German by a sworn translator.
 

This depends on the date and the laws in force at that time. Historically, acquiring a foreign nationality often led to the automatic loss of German citizenship. A case-by-case legal analysis is required, especially for naturalizations before 2000.

No fixed limit exists. What matters is the continuous transmission of citizenship through each generation. However, children born abroad after 1999 may be affected by the “generation cut” (Generationenschnitt) rule unless their birth was registered with a German authority within the required period.

No. Generally, Germany allows dual citizenship by descent. 

Timeframes vary depending on the complexity of your case, the availability of documents, and the workload of German authorities. On average, recognition of citizenship by descent can take about three years.

Costs include:

• Official German administrative fees.
• Expenses for translations and apostilles/legalizations.
• Professional legal or consultancy services, depending on the case.
  

We provide a detailed cost estimate after evaluating your specific situation.

As a German citizen, you enjoy:

• The right to live, work, and study in all EU countries.
• Access to German consular protection worldwide.
• Full political rights in Germany and the EU.
• Transmission of citizenship to your children under German law.

You can begin by filling out our eligibility form. Our team will review your information, identify the necessary documents, and provide you with a personalized legal assessment of your case.