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Naturalization in Münster

Apply for German citizenship in Münster

Progress0 of 4 steps completed
4 Schritte · ca. 3 Minuten0%

✓ Du bist in 3 Minuten fertig

Step 1

Check requirements

Before applying, you must ensure you meet all requirements. The main ones: residence, language, livelihood.

⚠️Since June 2024: 5 years residence (standard) or 3 years with special integration achievements (C1 + work/volunteering).
⏰ Check before applying💰 0 € (nur Prüfung)
💡 Tips
  • 5 years legal residence (since June 2024)
  • With special integration achievements: possible after 3 years (C1 German + work/volunteering)
  • German skills: at least B1
  • Own livelihood without social benefits
  • No criminal record
  • Dual citizenship allowed since 2024!
Contact Münster immigration office for naturalization↗
Step 2

Take naturalization test

The test has 33 questions about Germany, politics and history. You need at least 17 correct answers to pass. In Münster the test is taken at VHS Münster.

⚠️The test is required. But don't worry: 98% pass on first try if they practice online beforehand.
⏰ Before naturalization application💰 25 €

📄 Required Documents

💡 Tips
  • Practice all 310 questions online (free at BAMF): oet.bamf.de
  • 33 questions in test (30 nationwide + 3 about NRW)
  • 60 minutes time
  • Test can be repeated unlimited times
  • Certificate is valid indefinitely
  • VHS Münster: Aegidiimarkt 3, 48143 Münster | vhs-muenster.de
Register for test at VHS Münster↗
Step 3If you don't have a B1 certificate yet

Get B1 language certificate

You need an official B1 certificate for German. Accepted are telc, Goethe-Institut or DTZ (integration course). In Münster, VHS Münster offers courses and exams.

⚠️B2 level not mandatory for naturalization, but helpful for application and career.
⏰ Before naturalization application💰 150 – 250 € (Prüfung)

📄 Required Documents

💡 Tips
  • DTZ from integration course is recognized
  • German school certificate may also suffice
  • VHS Münster: Aegidiimarkt 3, 48143 Münster | vhs-muenster.de
  • AWO-Bildungswerk Münster: also courses and exams
  • With C1 + work/volunteering: naturalization possible after just 3 years!
German course at VHS Münster↗
Step 4

Submit naturalization application

Now you can submit the naturalization application at the Münster immigration office (Hafenstraße). Plan for several months processing time.

⚠️Processing time 6-18 months. Applying early is worth it. Since 2024 dual citizenship is allowed!
⏰ When all requirements are met💰 255 € (Erwachsene) / 51 € (Kinder)

📄 Required Documents

💡 Tips
  • Immigration office Münster: Hafenstraße 12-14, 48153 Münster
  • Tel. 0251/492-4201 | auslaenderbehoerde@stadt-muenster.de
  • Processing time: 6-18 months – apply early!
  • Since 2024: Dual citizenship allowed!
  • Bring all documents as copy + certified
  • Foreign documents: translation by sworn translator required
Apply for naturalization in Münster↗

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have time?
Vor Antragstellung prüfen
What does it cost?
0 € (nur Prüfung), 25 €, 150 – 250 € (Prüfung), 255 € (Erwachsene) / 51 € (Kinder)
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Seit Juni 2024: 5 Jahre Aufenthalt (Standard) oder frühestens 5 Jahre).

🔗 Related Topics

Visa & residenceMünsterNew to GermanyMünster