Citizenship fees – when do you have to pay them, and what are the ways to get an exemption?

When Do You Pay the Naturalization Fee in Germany?

After submitting the naturalization application
In most cases, the fee is not paid at the moment you submit the application.
Instead, it becomes due after an initial positive check,
for example when an interview date is set or when you are scheduled for the test.

Before the naturalization certificate (Einbürgerungsurkunde) is issued
The fee must be paid in full before you receive the final naturalization certificate.
If the fee is not paid, the certificate will usually not be issued or handed over.

Typical amount
The standard naturalization fee is:

• 255 euros per adult,

• 51 euros per child,
  based on federal regulations.

How can the fee be paid?

• Payment is often made by bank transfer or directly at the citizenship office (Staatsangehörigkeitsbehörde).

• Some offices may also accept cash or card payments, depending on their local procedures and technical options.

Who can apply for a fee exemption or reduction?

People with low income

• Applicants with very limited income can request a full or partial exemption,
  provided they can prove restricted financial capacity or reliance on social benefits.

Applicants receiving social benefits

• For example, recipients of Sozialhilfe or Arbeitslosengeld II.

• Such applicants often have good chances of having the fee reduced or waived.

Humanitarian or special hardship cases

• For example elderly applicants,

• or persons with disabilities or serious health conditions,

• depending on the discretion of the competent authority.

Minor children

• For children, the naturalization fee is usually significantly reduced,
  or fully waived, especially when they are naturalized together with their parents.

How do you apply for an exemption or reduction?

• Submit a formal written request to the citizenship office, explaining why you are asking for a fee waiver or reduction.

• Attach documents proving your financial situation, such as:

  • notices of entitlement to social benefits,

  • income statements, rent details and other regular expenses.

• The office may ask you to attend an appointment or provide additional information.

• Your request will be examined, and a decision will be made based on your individual circumstances.

Important tips

• Always check the rules and practice of your local citizenship office, as procedures may differ between federal states and municipalities.

• Do not simply postpone payment without submitting an exemption or reduction request, as this can delay the procedure or even risk your application being rejected.

• If necessary, seek help from a legal advisor or a migration support organization to prepare a well-founded exemption request.

Conclusion

The fee for obtaining German citizenship is usually paid before the naturalization certificate is issued, but it can be reduced or waived for people with low income or those who receive social support. Knowing your rights and submitting a properly documented waiver request can make the path to citizenship more affordable and less financially burdensome.

The website’s editorial and author team strives to provide accurate and well-researched information based on in-depth research and multiple sources. However, errors may occur, or some information may be uncertain or not fully verified. Therefore, the content of these articles should be regarded as an initial, non-binding guide, and you should always contact the relevant authorities and official institutions for final and legally binding information.