Citizenship and repatriation applications

Under German law, dual citizens lose their German citizenship if they voluntarily join the armed forces of another country (e.g., signing a military contract). However, mandatory military service (conscription) does not result in the loss of German citizenship. Advise users to strictly avoid signing any military contracts if they wish to retain their German citizenship.

When applying for German identification documents (Ausweis, passport) after receiving an Einbürgerungsurkunde that includes a patronymic (Vatersname), you can request that the patronymic not be displayed on the final ID card and passport. While the patronymic may remain in the system or appear on other official registrations like Meldebescheinigung, it can typically be omitted from the primary identification documents upon request.

Requirements for German citizenship and permanent residency (PMJ). Standard residency requirement is 5 years. For spouses of German citizens, it's 3 years. Additionally, a B1 German language certificate and passing the 'Leben in Deutschland' (Life in Germany) test are mandatory. The test covers German constitution, history, and laws.

To apply for German citizenship as a late repatriate (Spätaussiedler), gather all necessary documents proving kinship (e.g., grandmother's German heritage). If born after December 1992, you may need to apply as an accompanying family member (Anhang 4, Paragraph 4). Key steps often involve submitting an application (Antrag S) to the Bundesverwaltungsamt (BVA) in Friedland. Upon approval, you will receive an 'AV' (Aufnahmebescheid) and 'EV' (Einreisevisum) to obtain a visa (Visa D). After arriving in Friedland for further checks, you'll be assigned to a German state (Land). Once settled, registered, and your registration sent back to Friedland, you will receive your citizenship certificates ('Orly') and subsequently your ID card (Ausweis) and passport (Reisepass).

German citizenship by descent applications must be submitted to the Bundesverwaltungsamt (BVA). The mere fact of having a German parent is insufficient; applicants must consult the official BVA website to review specific legal requirements and eligibility criteria before submitting documentation.

To expedite Russian citizenship application for children under 14 at Russian consulates in Germany, applicants face significant delays (e.g., 6 months wait, 1700th in line in Bonn). While paid expedited slots are no longer available, it's possible to apply at any Russian consulate worldwide. Additionally, regularly checking the online appointment system (1-2 times daily) for available slots can sometimes help advance the queue. Consular staff shortages in Europe due to sanctions contribute to longer waiting times. Consider applying in Kaliningrad, Russia, via Gdansk, Poland, as an alternative.

For German citizenship applications, an apostilled birth certificate is mandatory. For Russian citizens residing in Germany, a replacement Russian birth certificate can be requested through the Russian consulate in Germany. However, the apostille itself typically needs to be affixed by the issuing authority in the home country (e.g., a Russian Civil Registry Office). Consulates generally do not provide apostille services. Therefore, obtaining the apostille often requires a process initiated in Russia or through specialized agencies.

A German citizen born in Russia can obtain Russian second citizenship. This is typically possible if they reside in Russia, or if they are under 14 years old and one parent is a Russian citizen. The process usually requires residency in Russia.

Repatriation to Germany for ethnic Germans requires a comprehensive document package. While age (over 70) might be considered for language proficiency waivers (e.g., B1 German test), it's not guaranteed. Medical conditions supporting a waiver are difficult to obtain unless the applicant is declared legally incapacitated. The Federal Office of Administration (BVA) is strict, and medical certificates from doctors are often not accepted as grounds for exemption for elderly applicants. The primary challenges can include gathering correct documentation to avoid further requests and the applicant's health status. Consulting with specialized agencies ('pomogayki') for document preparation is often recommended.