Naturalisation for spouses of Germans

Spouses and registered partners of German citizens 'should' be naturalised (a strong legal entitlement in normal cases) if:

• You have lived lawfully and habitually in Germany for three years, and
• The marriage or registered partnership has existed for two years

Everything else from the general rules (§ 10 Abs. 1 StAG) still applies. This shortened route is about time, not about lower standards.

• Clarified identity and nationality
• A residence status that allows naturalisation
• The ability to support yourself and dependent family members without Bürgergeld or social assistance, with the usual exceptions
• No relevant criminal convictions
• German at B1 level
• Knowledge of the legal and social order, normally by passing the Einbürgerungstest
• The commitment to the free democratic basic order and the loyalty declaration

The same exceptions as for other applicants apply, for example for illness, disability or age.

The three-year residence period can be shortened for reasons of public interest if the marriage or partnership has lasted three years. This is a discretionary exception, not a standard option. Minor children of the spouse can be naturalised together with them even if they have not yet lived in Germany for three years.

Normally the marriage or partnership has to exist when you are naturalised. There is one protective exception (§ 9 Abs. 2 StAG): you can still use the spouse route if you apply within one year after your German spouse's death or after the final divorce or dissolution, provided you have custody of and live with a minor child from that marriage who already has German citizenship.

Otherwise, if the marriage ends before naturalisation, you need to meet the general requirements, including five years of residence.

• Marriage certificate (foreign certificates often need a certified translation and an apostille or legalisation)
• Proof of your spouse's German citizenship, such as an ID card or passport
• Your residence permits covering the three years
• Proof of income for the household

Multiple citizenship is generally accepted since June 2024, so you do not have to give up your current nationality for German law. Check what your other country's law says. If you live abroad with your German spouse, naturalisation from abroad is handled by the Bundesverwaltungsamt and follows different, discretionary rules.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Your Einbürgerungsbehörde can confirm how it applies § 9 in your case.