Germany citizenship by descent — FAQ
Common questions about claiming Germany citizenship through ancestry.
- Who qualifies for Germany citizenship by descent?
- Eligibility runs through the §4 Feststellung / §5 declaration / Art. 116(2) pathway and depends on your specific line of descent — which ancestor was a citizen, when, and whether the chain was ever broken by naturalization or other events. Run the free eligibility check for a personalized answer.
- Which authority decides Germany citizenship cases?
- BVA Cologne. EasyPassport is not affiliated with them; we help you organize and verify, and you submit to the authority directly.
- How long does it take?
- Timelines vary widely by route and backlog and are outside any service's control. Treat published averages as estimates and confirm current waits with the authority.
- Do I need to upload my passport or ID?
- No. EasyPassport never stores passports or government IDs — it's a checklist and organization tool, not a document vault.
- Is this legal advice?
- No. We use “may qualify” language because the authority makes the final determination. For an individualized opinion, consult a qualified attorney in the relevant jurisdiction.
- Will claiming citizenship by descent affect my current citizenship?
- These countries allow dual citizenship, so claiming by descent does not require giving up your existing nationality. Check your own country's rules too — a few nations restrict dual citizenship on their side.
- Do I have to give up US citizenship to claim German citizenship by descent?
- No. Since the StARModG reform took effect June 27, 2024, Germany permits dual citizenship, so you can keep your US passport.
- Why was my German translation rejected?
- BVA only accepts translations by a sworn translator recognized by a German court. US-based 'certified' translators who aren't court-sworn are routinely rejected — the most common cause of delays.
- Which German route is free — §4, §5, or Art. 116(2)?
- §5 declarations and Art. 116(2) restitution are free. The §4 Feststellung has a €51 fee, invoiced after approval rather than upfront.
- How much does German citizenship by descent cost?
- About $500–$1,000 for the §4 Feststellung route. The BVA fee is €51 (invoiced after approval); §5 declarations and Art. 116(2) restitution are free. Sworn translations ($30–$85 per page) are the main variable.
See if you qualify for Germany citizenship
Check your eligibility — freeNot affiliated with BVA Cologne or any government. A document-organization tool, not legal advice — always verify with the relevant authority.