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Article 116 and Section 15 StAG: Can Your Children Also Become German?

A common question from parents is whether their children can also become German once a claim is established.

In most cases, children can benefit, either through a parent’s application or through their own claim.

Each Descendant Has an Individual Claim

Eligibility passes down the family line, and each qualifying descendant has their own claim.

This means children may qualify in their own right, based on the same family history.

Including Minor Children in an Application

Minor children can often be included in a parent’s application.

The BVA provides specific forms for minors as part of the process.

Children Born After Citizenship Is Granted

Children born after a parent has acquired German citizenship generally acquire citizenship by descent.

This is the ordinary way citizenship passes from a German parent to a child.

Special Situations

Some cases involve additional rules, for example certain adopted children or historical situations affected by earlier gender-based provisions.

Because these situations vary, they are usually best reviewed individually.

Conclusion

In most cases, children can also become German, either through a parent’s application or through their own claim. The right approach depends on each child’s circumstances and the family’s history.