Germany dual citizenship rules

Who Can Hold German and Another Citizenship

Germany generally does not permit dual citizenship for adults. However, children born to one German and one non-German parent may hold both nationalities until age 23. At that point, they must choose which citizenship to keep.

There are some exceptions where adults can hold German citizenship alongside another:

• You were born German and acquired another citizenship automatically (not by choice)
• You are a citizen of another European Union or Swiss citizen
• You gained citizenship through naturalization and your home country does not allow you to give up your original nationality

Children and the Choice at Age 23

If you were born in Germany to mixed-nationality parents, you likely hold both passports automatically. Between ages 21 and 23, you must decide which citizenship to keep. If you do nothing, you will lose German citizenship at age 23.

To keep German citizenship, you must declare this choice with German authorities before your 23rd birthday. Contact your local registration office (Bürgeramt) for the exact process and deadline in your area.

Naturalization and Dual Citizenship

When you naturalize as a German citizen, you normally must renounce your previous nationality. Germany will not let you keep it.

However, if your home country makes renunciation impossible or extremely difficult, you may be allowed to hold both passports. This depends on your individual case.

How to Check Your Status

Your citizenship situation depends on:

• Where you were born
• Your parents' nationalities
• Whether you chose to naturalize
• Your country of origin's laws

If you are unsure whether you hold German citizenship or must make a choice, contact the German immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) or your nearest German embassy or consulate.

Key Steps to Remember

• If you have dual citizenship from birth, you must choose by age 23
• Most new German citizens cannot keep their original passport
• EU and Swiss citizens have different rules
• Each situation is unique—verify your personal circumstances with official sources

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.