Germany introduced dual citizenship in 2024 — Indians can now become German without giving up their Indian passport. Check all requirements in one place.
Since 27 June 2024, Germany allows naturalised citizens to keep their original nationality. Indians who become German citizens no longer need to give up their Indian passport. This is a major change — previously most Indians had to choose.
Gather all required documents, get translations (certified by a sworn translator — vereidigter Übersetzer), apostille on Indian documents from Indian authorities
The citizenship test has 33 multiple-choice questions. Book at bamf.de. Study guide free on BAMF website. 33-39 questions, need 17/33 correct.
This is your local authority — usually part of the Ausländerbehörde or Standesamt. Waiting times can be 3–12 months.
Bring all originals + copies. Application fee: €255/adult, €51/child. You will receive an Einbürgerungszusicherung (provisional approval) if all is OK.
The citizenship certificate — usually 6–18 months after application. Then apply for German passport at the same office.
As a new German citizen, your Indian passport is still valid to hold but not to travel on for Indians — apply for OCI card from the Indian Embassy.
