Naturalisation Test
Your pathway to German citizenship
The naturalisation test is an important requirement for obtaining German citizenship. The test examines your knowledge of the German legal and social system as well as living conditions in Germany. As an approved test center, we offer regular test dates and professional consultation.
Target audience: All persons who wish to apply for German citizenship and meet the legal requirements.
What is Tested in the Naturalisation Test?
Test Subject Areas
The naturalisation test covers questions from three areas:
- Living in a democracy (fundamental rights, elections, political parties)
- History and responsibility (German history since 1933)
- People and society (religion, education, social security)
- Specific questions about your federal state (e.g., Saxony)
- Fundamentals of the Basic Law and German legal system
- Important historical events and personalities
Naturalisation Test Procedure
How the Test Works
The naturalisation test is a standardised nationwide test with the following characteristics:
- ✓ 33 questions: You receive a test sheet with 33 multiple-choice questions
- ✓ Question catalog: All questions come from a public catalog of 310 questions
- ✓ State-specific: 3 questions specifically relate to your federal state
- ✓ 60 minutes time: You have one hour to answer the questions
- ✓ Passed with 17 correct answers: You must answer at least 17 of 33 questions correctly
Results: You will receive your certificate usually within 6-8 weeks after the test. Your result will be sent to you directly by BAMF by mail.
How to Prepare
📚 Free Question Catalog
Use the official question catalog:
- 310 questions with answers available online
- All test questions come from this catalog
- Practice with the original questions
- Available on the BAMF website
💻 Online Test Versions
Test your knowledge in advance:
- Free online tests available
- Simulate the exam situation
- Immediate evaluation of your answers
- Can be repeated as often as you like
📖 Preparation Courses
We support you in your preparation:
- Orientation courses (part of the integration course)
- Special preparation courses upon request
- Individual consultation and support
- Explanation of difficult questions and topics
Registration and Dates
We regularly offer dates for the naturalisation test. The examination fee is €25.00 + €25.00 administrative fee (total €50.00) and must be paid upon registration. Payment can be made by EC card or cash.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who must take the naturalisation test?
All persons who wish to apply for German citizenship must pass the naturalisation test. Exceptions apply to persons who are unable to take the test for health reasons (e.g., disability, illness, age). Persons with a German school-leaving certificate or certain educational qualifications may also be exempt from the test.
How much does the naturalisation test cost?
The examination fee for the naturalisation test is €25.00 plus €25.00 administrative fee, totaling €50.00. This fee must be paid when registering for the test and can be paid by EC card or in cash. The fee covers the administration of the test as well as the issuance of the certificate and is not refunded if you do not pass the test or do not appear.
How often can I repeat the test?
You can repeat the naturalisation test as often as you like if you do not pass it. There is no limit to the number of retake attempts. However, for each attempt you must pay the test fee of €50.00 (€25.00 examination fee + €25.00 administrative fee) again. We recommend that you prepare thoroughly before retaking and use the official question catalog.
How long is the certificate valid?
The certificate for passing the naturalisation test is valid indefinitely. You can use it for your naturalisation application regardless of how long ago the test was taken. Keep the original certificate carefully as you will need it for your naturalisation application.
Can I take the test in my native language?
No, the naturalisation test is conducted exclusively in German. This is part of the naturalisation requirements, as you must demonstrate sufficient German language skills for German citizenship. However, the questions are formulated in simple, understandable language, and you have sufficient time to read and answer them.
Do I need the test if I have a German school certificate?
Yes, in most cases you are exempt from the naturalisation test if you have a German school-leaving certificate (e.g., Hauptschulabschluss, Realschulabschluss, or Abitur). This also applies to successful graduates of an orientation course as part of an integration course. For exact clarification, please contact your responsible naturalisation authority.
Where can I find the official question catalog?
The official question catalog with all 310 questions and the correct answers is available free of charge on the website of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF). There you will also find interactive test versions with which you can check your knowledge. All questions in the actual test come from this public catalog.
What happens if I don't pass the test?
If you do not pass the naturalisation test (less than 17 correct answers), you can repeat it at any time. There are no waiting periods or restrictions. You must register again and pay the test fee of €50.00. We recommend that you study the question catalog more intensively before the next attempt and possibly attend a preparation course.
What aids are allowed during the test?
No aids are allowed during the naturalisation test. You may not use books, notes, mobile phones, or electronic devices. All necessary materials (test sheet, answer sheet, pen) are provided by the test center. Please bring a valid photo ID (identity card, passport, or residence permit) for identification.
Registration for the Naturalisation Test
Would you like to register for the naturalisation test or have additional questions?
If you are interested, please contact:
Or use the contact form below
