What Happens After You Receive Your German Citizenship?

Congratulations on becoming a German citizen! This exciting milestone marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life, filled with new rights, opportunities, and responsibilities.

While the journey to obtaining your German citizenship may have been long and complex, your adventure as a full-fledged German citizen is just beginning. This guide will walk you through the practical steps and important considerations that come after receiving your citizenship certificate. From obtaining your German passport to understanding your new voting rights, we’ll cover everything you need to know to fully embrace your new status and integrate into German society.

Whether you’re wondering about travel privileges, social benefits, or cultural expectations, this article will help you navigate life as a new German citizen with confidence and ease.

Thomas A. Heinrich

Lawyer, Partner

 

Anton Kosin

CEO & Founder (atlaskey)

• Obtaining Your German Passport
• Registering to Vote in German Elections
• Changes in Travel Rights and Visa-Free Access
• Social Security and Welfare Benefits
• Education and Employment Opportunities
• Employment Rights Within the EU
• Military Service Obligations
• Dual Citizenship Considerations
• Participation in Civic Life
• Tax Implications
• Cultural Integration and Identity
• Our Recommendation

Obtaining Your German Passport

Once you’ve become a German citizen, getting your German passport is an exciting next step. Let’s look at how to apply for your new passport.

Application Process for a German Passport

Getting your German passport involves a few simple steps. Here’s what you need to do:

• Make an appointment at your local passport office (Passbehörde). You can usually do this online or by phone.
• Attend your appointment in person. You can’t send someone else to apply for you.
• Bring all the required documents and be ready to have your photo and fingerprints taken at the office.

Required Documents and Fees

You’ll need to bring several documents and pay a fee for your new passport. Here’s what to prepare:

• Your naturalization certificate
• A recent biometric passport photo
• Proof of residence (like a registration certificate or utility bill)
• Your old passport or ID card
• The fee, which is currently about €70 for a regular 10-year passport

Processing Time and Where to Apply

Getting your new passport takes some time, so plan ahead. Here’s what you should know:

• It usually takes 3-6 weeks for your passport to be ready.
• You apply at your local passport office, which is often part of the city hall or citizen’s office.
• Some offices offer express processing for an extra fee if you need your passport quickly.

Registering to Vote in German Elections

One of the most important rights you gain as a new German citizen is the right to vote. Let’s look at how you can participate in German elections.

Eligibility to Vote in Local, State, and Federal Elections

As a German citizen, you now have the right to vote in all levels of German elections. Here’s what you need to know:

• You can vote in local elections for your city or town council.
• You’re eligible to vote in state elections for your Land (federal state) parliament.
• You can participate in federal elections to choose members of the German parliament (Bundestag).
• You can also vote in European Parliament elections.

How to Register as a Voter

Getting registered to vote is usually a simple process. Here’s how it works:

• In most cases, you’ll be automatically registered to vote when you register your address with the local authorities.
• If you move to a new address, make sure to update your registration to stay on the voter list.
• Before each election, you’ll receive a notification card (Wahlbenachrichtigung) in the mail with information about where and when to vote.

Understanding the German Electoral System

Germany’s voting system might be different from what you’re used to. Here are some key points:

• In many elections, you have two votes: one for a direct candidate and one for a party.
• The system combines direct representation with proportional representation to determine the makeup of parliaments.
• There’s a 5% threshold for parties to enter parliament, which helps ensure stable governments.

Changes in Travel Rights and Visa-Free Access

One of the most exciting benefits of becoming a German citizen is the new travel opportunities it opens up. Let’s explore how your German passport can make international travel easier and more accessible.

Benefits of Traveling with a German Passport

Your new German passport is one of the most powerful in the world. Here’s what that means for you:

• You can travel freely within the European Union without needing a visa.
• You can stay in other EU countries for as long as you want without restrictions.
• At many international airports, you can use faster EU citizen queues for passport control.

Visa-Free Access to Other Countries

A German passport gives you visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries. Here’s what you need to know:

• You can travel to over 190 countries and territories without needing a visa in advance.
• For many countries, you can stay for up to 90 days without any visa.
• Some countries may require you to get an electronic travel authorization before your trip, but this is usually a simple online process.

Implications for Travel to Your Country of Origin (If Dual Citizenship is Retained)

If you’ve kept your original citizenship along with your new German one, there are some important things to consider:

• You should always enter and leave your country of origin using its passport, not your German one.
• Some countries might not recognize your dual citizenship, so be aware of any potential issues this could cause.
• Check if there are any special rules or obligations for dual citizens in your country of origin.

Social Security and Welfare Benefits

Becoming a German citizen gives you full access to Germany’s social security system. Let’s look at how this affects your benefits and rights.

Access to the German Social Security System

As a German citizen, you now have complete access to all social benefits. Here’s what this means for you:

• You can receive all social benefits without restrictions, including unemployment benefits, social assistance, and child benefits.
• You have the same rights as any other German citizen when it comes to social support.
• You no longer need to worry about losing your residence permit if you need to claim benefits.

Changes in Healthcare Coverage

Your healthcare coverage might change after becoming a German citizen. Here’s what you need to know:

• If you were previously covered by statutory health insurance, your coverage will continue without changes.
• If you had private health insurance, you might now have the option to switch to the statutory system if you prefer.
• As a German citizen, you’re guaranteed access to healthcare, regardless of your employment status.

Pension Rights and Contributions

Your pension situation may also change with your new citizenship status. Here’s what to expect:

• Your previous pension contributions in Germany will remain valid.
• You might now be eligible for additional pension benefits that were previously restricted to German citizens.
• If you worked in other EU countries, it may now be easier to combine those pension rights with your German pension.

Education and Employment Opportunities

Becoming a German citizen opens up new possibilities for education and work, both in Germany and across the European Union. Let’s explore these exciting opportunities.

Access to Education and Scholarships as a German Citizen

As a new German citizen, you’ll have more options for education and financial support. Here’s what you need to know:

• You can now apply for all German scholarships and student financial aid programs without restrictions.
• You’ll have easier access to university programs, including those with limited spots for international students.
• You can participate in exchange programs and study abroad opportunities that are reserved for EU citizens.

Employment Rights Within the EU

Your German citizenship gives you the right to work anywhere in the European Union. Here’s what this means for you:

• You can live and work in any EU country without needing a work permit.
• You’ll have the same employment rights as local citizens in other EU countries.
• You can start a business or become self-employed in any EU country with fewer restrictions.

Recognition of Qualifications and Professional Licenses

Your German citizenship can make it easier to have your qualifications recognized. Here’s how it works:

• Your professional qualifications from other countries may be more easily recognized in Germany and the EU.
• You’ll have an easier time getting licenses for regulated professions in Germany and other EU countries.
• You can join professional associations that might have been restricted to EU citizens before.

Military Service Obligations

As a new German citizen, you might have questions about military service. Let’s look at the current situation and what it means for you.

Current Status of Mandatory Military Service in Germany

Germany no longer requires mandatory military service for its citizens. Here’s what you need to know:

• Compulsory military service in Germany was suspended in 2011.
• Currently, the German military (Bundeswehr) is a volunteer force.
• This means that as a new German citizen, you are not required to serve in the military.

Rights and Responsibilities Regarding Military Service

Even though military service isn’t mandatory, there are still some things to be aware of. Here’s what you should know:

• You have the right to volunteer for military service if you wish to do so.
• In case of a severe national crisis, the German government could potentially reintroduce mandatory military service, but this would require a change in the law.
• If you’re already serving in the military of another country, becoming a German citizen might affect your status there. It’s important to check with that country’s authorities.

Dual Citizenship Considerations

With the new German citizenship law, you can now keep your original citizenship when becoming German. Let’s look at what this means for you.

Rights and Responsibilities If You’ve Retained Dual Citizenship

Having dual citizenship means you’re a citizen of two countries at the same time. Here’s what you need to know:

• You have the rights and responsibilities of both countries, including voting rights and passport privileges.
• You can live and work in both countries without needing a visa or residence permit.
• You might be eligible for social benefits in both countries, but check the specific rules as they can vary.

Reporting Requirements to Both Countries (If Applicable)

Some countries require you to report your new citizenship status. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Check if your original country requires you to report your German citizenship.
• You should inform German authorities if you voluntarily acquire another citizenship later.
• Make sure to update your personal information with both countries when there are changes, like address or marital status.

Potential Conflicts of Interest and How to Handle Them

Having dual citizenship can sometimes lead to complex situations. Here’s how to navigate them:

• If both countries require military service, you might need to choose where to serve or seek exemption.
• In case of conflicting tax obligations, look into double taxation agreements between the countries.
• When traveling, always use the passport of the country you’re entering or leaving.

Participation in Civic Life

As a new German citizen, you have many opportunities to actively participate in your community and shape society. Let’s explore how you can get involved in civic life.

Opportunities for Civic Engagement

There are many ways to contribute to your community as a German citizen. Here are some options:

• You can join local community groups or neighborhood associations to help improve your area.
• You can participate in town hall meetings or public consultations to voice your opinions on local issues.
• You can engage in environmental initiatives or social causes that are important to you.
• You can become a member of school boards or parent-teacher associations if you have children.

Joining Political Parties or Running for Office

As a German citizen, you now have full political rights. Here’s what this means for you:

• You can join any political party that aligns with your views and values.
• You can run for political office at the local, state, or federal level.
• You can participate in internal party decisions and help shape party policies.
• You have the right to vote in all elections, from local councils to the European Parliament.

Volunteering and Community Involvement

Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and meet new people. Here are some volunteering opportunities:

• You can volunteer at local charities, hospitals, or care homes.
• You can offer your skills to help newcomers integrate into German society.
• You can participate in cultural events or festivals to celebrate diversity.
• You can join sports clubs or hobby groups to connect with others who share your interests.

Tax Implications

Becoming a German citizen can affect your tax situation. Let’s look at what changes you might expect and how to handle them.

Changes in Tax Status and Obligations

Your tax status might change when you become a German citizen. Here’s what you need to know:

• As a German citizen, you’re now fully part of the German tax system.
• You’ll need to file a German tax return each year, reporting your worldwide income.
• If you’re self-employed, you might need to register for VAT (sales tax) if your income is above a certain level.

Reporting Foreign Income (If Applicable)

If you have income from outside Germany, you need to report it. Here’s how it works:

• You must declare all income you earn worldwide, not just in Germany.
• This includes income from work, investments, or property in other countries.
• You might need to fill out additional forms to report foreign income.

Double Taxation Agreements with Other Countries

Germany has agreements with many countries to prevent double taxation. Here’s what this means for you:

• These agreements ensure you don’t pay tax twice on the same income.
• You might be able to claim tax credits for taxes paid in other countries.
• The rules can be complex and vary depending on the countries involved.

Cultural Integration and Identity

Becoming a German citizen doesn’t mean you have to give up your cultural roots. Let’s look at how you can balance your new German identity with your previous cultural background.

Balancing German Identity with Previous Cultural Background

Your new German citizenship adds to your identity rather than replacing it. Here’s how you can embrace both:

• You can celebrate both German holidays and traditions from your country of origin.
• You can participate in German cultural events while also sharing your own cultural practices with others.
• You can use your multicultural background as an advantage in your personal and professional life.
• You can teach your children about both German culture and your family’s heritage.

Resources for Further Cultural Integration

There are many ways to deepen your connection to German culture. Here are some resources to help you:

• Local community centers often offer cultural events and integration courses.
• Libraries have books and materials about German history, culture, and language.
• Museums can provide insights into German art, history, and traditions.
• Joining sports clubs or hobby groups can help you connect with Germans who share your interests.

Our Recommendation

Becoming a German citizen is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with new rights, responsibilities, and opportunities that may seem overwhelming at first. We strongly recommend seeking professional guidance to help you navigate this new chapter of your life and ensure you’re making the most of your new status. Our team of experienced legal experts can provide invaluable support as you adjust to life as a German citizen.

Ready to fully embrace your new life as a German citizen?

Don’t navigate this journey alone. Contact us today for a personalized consultation. Our experts will help you understand your new rights and responsibilities, guide you through any legal processes, and ensure you’re taking advantage of all the benefits your German citizenship offers.

Whether you need help with passport applications, voting registration, or understanding your new tax obligations, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Call us now or fill out our online contact form to start making the most of your German citizenship today!