German naturalisation: five years of residence and new restrictions for Ukrainians

For foreigners choosing Germany as their permanent place of residence, approaches to obtaining citizenship have changed. Applicants can now apply for a passport only after five years of legal residence in the country. However, the duration of residence is just one of the conditions: candidates must also demonstrate language proficiency, financial independence, and compliance with other legal norms.

Current information on naturalisation conditions is available on the official information portal of the German government.

Abolition of the accelerated procedure

The standard minimum period of residence for obtaining German citizenship is currently five years. Historically, there was an option to use an accelerated procedure: foreigners demonstrating exceptional integration success could submit documents after just three years of residence.

However, from 30 October 2025, this simplified option has been eliminated. From this date, the single five-year term for standard naturalisation applies again to all applicants.

Key requirements for candidates

To be eligible for a German passport, an applicant must generally meet the following list of criteria:

• reside legally in the country for at least five years;
• hold an appropriate residence status that permits naturalisation;
• verify identity and current citizenship;
• possess German language skills at a level of B1 or higher;
• support themselves and dependent family members independently, except in cases provided for by law;
• demonstrate knowledge of Germany's legal and social structure, usually by passing a special test;
• acknowledge the democratic principles of the state and its constitutional order;
• meet legal requirements regarding the absence of criminal offences.

Specifics for Ukrainians under temporary protection

Separate rules apply to Ukrainian citizens residing in Germany under the temporary protection programme. A residence permit under Section 24 of the Residence Act does not, in itself, allow one to undergo the standard naturalisation procedure. To initiate the process, it is necessary to obtain another appropriate permit, for example, based on employment.

However, the period of legal residence under temporary protection can be counted towards the required five years after transitioning to an appropriate migration status. Thus, Ukrainians who arrived in Germany in the spring of 2022 may potentially meet the residence duration requirement by the spring of 2027. However, this does not mean automatic acquisition of citizenship.

Cost and processing times

The standard fee for naturalisation is 255 euros per person. A reduced rate—usually 51 euros—is provided for minor children without their own income who are processed together with their parents.

Additional costs may arise for language certificates, testing, and document preparation.

Processing an application can take 18 months or longer. The final decision is made by the competent authority after reviewing all circumstances and submitted documents.

As previously noted, Ukrainians in Germany have the opportunity to transition from temporary protection to other legal grounds for residence. In particular, appropriate permits are available under conditions of employment, entrepreneurial activity, or family reunification.