Citizenship and Permanent Residency in Germany: what actually matters to know

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).

One user suggests obtaining Ukrainian citizenship as an alternative route to residency in Germany, implying it's simpler and cheaper (estimated 3-5k EUR) than marriage/divorce processes, and can lead to citizenship automatically. This user also sarcastically suggests alternative, unconventional routes through Africa or Afghanistan, and marrying a foreigner to gain social benefits. The core, albeit cynical, advice is to explore a wider range of options for achieving residency goals, rather than adhering to conventional paths. The user contrasts this with their own experience of successful immigration 30 years ago based on strong desire, but criticizes having children solely for the purpose of immigration.

This includes fulfilling obligations such as paying taxes, having health insurance, making social contributions, having employment (or the spouse having sufficient income for two), and successfully passing language and naturalization tests. A minimum of 3 years of shared residency from the date of registration is required.

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.