Co-naturalization of spouses Application

In order to be naturalized together with your spouse, you must submit a written application for naturalization.

The naturalization authority will examine the application for joint naturalization and involve other authorities if necessary.

If criminal proceedings are pending, it will await their conclusion.

The authorities responsible for naturalization are the district administrations and municipal administrations of the independent cities. These authorities provide free and non-binding advice on the possibility of naturalization. The advice is not dependent on an application being submitted.

In rural districts, the application for naturalization can also be submitted to the municipal administrations of the independent municipalities, the association municipal administrations and the municipal administrations of the large towns belonging to the district.

Requirements that you must meet for naturalization:

• You have been legally resident in Germany for at least four years.
• The marital partnership has existed in Germany for at least two years.
• You meet all the requirements for independent naturalization in addition to the residence periods.

This includes, among other things: You have not been convicted of a criminal offense, have sufficient knowledge of the German language, knowledge of the legal and social order and living conditions in Germany.

The following documents are always required from you as the spouse to be naturalized:

• valid identification document (passport, travel document or passport substitute)
• photograph
• Proof of income or assets, health and old-age insurance
• Marriage certificate

Which other documents are required depends on the individual case. It is advisable to consult the naturalization authority at an early stage. They can list exactly which documents are required for your naturalization.

• 255 euros per naturalized person if the application is granted

If the application is withdrawn or rejected, the fee is reduced.

A consultation prior to submitting the application is free of charge.

Additional costs may be incurred in individual cases for the procurement of civil status documents, proof of civic knowledge, language skills or the renunciation of previous citizenship.

If possible, you should apply for joint naturalization at the same time as your spouse applies for naturalization. However, you must apply for co-naturalization before your spouse applies for naturalization.

• § Section 10 of the Citizenship Act (StAG)
• § Section 11 of the Citizenship Act (StAG)
• § Section 12 of the Nationality Act (StAG)
• § Section 12a of the Citizenship Act (StAG)
• § Section 12b of the Citizenship Act (StAG)

The naturalization authorities have application forms available. They will also clarify which documents you need to enclose with your application.

29.05.2019