I am in the process to prepare for applying for German Citizenship and thought helpful to share my progress
| Step | Action | Details | Time Frame |
| 1 | Einbürgerungstest | I made an appointment at the VHS Stuttgart. This was in July 2023. I had to enrol for the test in person and got a date for the test in September 2023. I used the apps listed on the website to prepare and I found it prepared you very well for the test | The result was sent to me via post within 3 weeks |
| 2 | Beratungsgesrpäch at the Bügeramt | I contacted the Bürgeramt on 19 January 2024 via E-Mail to arrange an appointment, and they made one for me on 24 January 2024. During this consultation session, the official (Beamtin) went through the list of required documents with me and explained the application process. I received an application form as a hard copy. It was made very clear that if I apply before the new law is implemented, I still have to renounce my South African citizenship | |
| 3 | Gather the needed documents | This is still in progress. The biggest challenge for me is that I have to apply for an unabridged Birth certificate and have it apostilled. It must then be translated by a recognised Dolmetscher I will do this in March when I will be in South Africa. There are other options for obtaining it via an agency. See the information below. | |
| 4 | Apply for Retention of my South African citizenship | Even though this might or might not be needed, I decided to do it anyway to cover all my bases. I will do this in March when I will be South Africa. There are other options of obtaining it via an agency. See information below |
,
Example of documents needed
The following is a list of the possible documents that might be needed, depending on your situation. I got the list during the Beratungsgespräch.
Translators and assistance with documentation
Helge Mayer translations services
Based in Germany. Helge Mayer (MA) – accredited/sworn translations German to English and English to German Masters Degree in Translations from the University of Heidelberg
Linguistika
A Multifaceted Language Service founded by Stephanie Schaffrath TAILORED ONLINE LANGUAGE TUITION: With over 12 years of experience teaching languages, Linguistika is committed to providing
Birgit Böttner – Sworn Translator
Based in Johannesburg South Africa. I’m a qualified sworn translator for English & German, registered with the German Consulate in Pretoria Trained in Germany in
Angela Goosen – Sworn Translator
Based in Cape Town South Africa. I am a born South African, stayed in Munich for 13 years and am back in SA I am
Chris Grosch – accredited interpreter – sworn translator – VO artist
Chris Grosch – accredited interpreter – sworn translator – VO artist Professional linguist in English, German and French having lived in Germany, Japan, the US,
Doc Assist
Embark on a hassle-free journey with our comprehensive document services. Whether you’re planning to travel, work abroad, or need vital documents, Doc Assist is here
Apostil
Get South African apostilles, police clearances, birth/marriage certificates, legalisations and much more quickly and efficiently through our legal service. We have helped thousands of people
You must be logged in to post a comment.