“Man is not born a citizen, but must be made so.”

Naturalization may result in unintended consequences. Among those consequences is the possibility that a voluntary naturalization may result in the loss of a one’s original citizenship.

Generally, if you apply for another citizenship you lose your German citizenship. There are exceptions though. For example, since 2007, applicants who obtain the citizenship of another EU-Country or Switzerland do not need a retention certificate.

Having a retention certificate (“Beibehaltungsurkunde”), prior to becoming a citizenship of the U.S., Canada or New Zealand allows you to keep your German citizenship.

On this Webpage, we provide an overview of the application process, our firm and how we can assist. Of course, each case is different, and the information provided on this webpage does not replace legal advice.