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Retaining German citizenship

Multiple citizenship is possible in many cases

Germans who become naturalized citizens of another country lose their German citizenship unless they have received a retention permit prior to naturalization. For this reason, the request to retain German citizenship should always be made before requesting naturalization in another country.

An exception applies to Germans who become naturalized citizens of another EU Member State or Switzerland: they do not lose their German citizenship and thus do not need any retention permit (legal situation in force as from 28 August 2007).

Do you live abroad and want to apply for permission to retain German citizenship? Submit your request to the German Embassy or the competent consulate. They will forward it to the Federal Office of Administration. You will have to demonstrate that you still have close ties to Germany.

People living in Germany can contact their municipal administration or district office.

Please bear in mind that all information relates exclusively to German citizenship law. Only the competent authorities in the other country can clarify whether that country allows multiple citizenship and under which conditions.
Legal basis: Article 25 (2) of the Nationality Act (StAG)

Please note that the whole application procedure must be conducted in German.

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Published 28 March 2024

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