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Summary: since 2024 Germany has accepted dual citizenship for everyone; that is, Iranians can become German citizens without giving up Iranian citizenship. In 2026 the main requirements are: 5 years of legal residence, German at level B1, passing the citizenship test, supporting yourself without state benefits and commitment to the democratic order. The fast 3-year route was abolished in October 2025. The application fee for adults is €255.
Requirements for German citizenship in 2026
- Length of residence: at least 5 years of legal and habitual residence in Germany (it was 8 years before the law reform). The option of “fast-track citizenship” after 3 years for people with exceptional integration was abolished on 30 October 2025.
- A suitable residence title: permanent residence or a temporary residence with the prospect of staying (for example work, Blue Card, family). Student residence and some temporary permits alone are not enough, but their years count towards the residence period.
- German at level B1: with a Goethe, telc or ÖSD certificate or the Integrationskurs certificate, or a German educational qualification.
- Citizenship test (Einbürgerungstest): 33 questions (30 general + 3 about your state of residence); at least 17 correct answers. The “Leben in Deutschland” test in the Integrationskurs is also accepted.
- Securing your livelihood: support yourself and your family without Bürgergeld or social assistance (with exceptions such as illness or disability).
- Criminal record: no serious criminal convictions.
- Commitment to the constitution: signing a declaration of loyalty to the free democratic order. Antisemitic, racist or discriminatory acts or views are an obstacle to citizenship.
Dual citizenship for Iranians
Before 2024 Iranians usually received dual citizenship as an exception, because Iran in practice does not allow renunciation of citizenship. Now it is open to everyone. Note that under Iranian law you remain only an Iranian citizen, and you must use your Iranian passport to travel to Iran; the German embassy in Iran cannot provide full consular protection for dual nationals. Before travelling, read the travel advice of the German Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt).
Costs
- Adults: €255
- Children under 18 applying together with their parents: €51
- Citizenship test: €25 per attempt
- Official translation of Iranian documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate): depending on the number of pages – see the guide Official translation of documents
Application steps
- Check the requirements and get advice from the citizenship authority (Einbürgerungsbehörde) in your city; in many cities the application is online.
- Gather documents: passport, residence card, birth and marriage certificates with translation, payslips and employment contract, proof of pension insurance, language and test certificates, rental contract.
- Submit the application and pay the fee.
- Review of the file – in big cities it can take 12 to 24 months.
- Ceremony for the award of the citizenship certificate (Einbürgerungsurkunde), then apply for a German passport and ID card.
Children
Children born in Germany automatically become German citizens if at the time of birth one parent has had at least 5 years of legal residence and a permanent right of residence, and they may also keep Iranian citizenship.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to give up Iranian citizenship to become a German citizen?
No. Since June 2024 dual citizenship is permitted for everyone in Germany.
After how many years can I become a German citizen?
In 2026, after at least 5 years of legal residence. The 3-year route was abolished in October 2025.
How many questions does the citizenship test have?
33 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes; you pass with 17 correct answers. All questions are drawn from an official pool of 310 questions.
How much does German citizenship cost?
€255 for adults and €51 for each child under 18, plus €25 for the test.
To find an immigration lawyer or Persian-speaking official translator, see the directory of Iranian businesses.
This article is not legal advice; citizenship rules may change. Last updated: September 2026.
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