Congrats! Your German Naturalization has been approved. That’s really a big Step in your life in Germany.Now, just one small step is left: The German Citizenship Oath. It’s a crucial aspect of this German naturalization process, which is a solemn promise that marks the final step in becoming a full-fledged member of German society.
What is the German Citizenship Oath?
The German citizenship oath is a formal declaration made by individuals who have successfully completed the German naturalization process. This oath symbolizes their commitment to upholding the values and laws of Germany, as well as their willingness to integrate into German society.
The Oath Ceremony
The German citizenship oath ceremony is a significant event in the naturalization process. Here’s what typically happens:
- Invitation: Successfully naturalized individuals receive an invitation to the oath ceremony.
- Gathering: The ceremony usually takes place in a government building or town hall.
- Official welcome: A government representative welcomes the new citizens.
- Taking the oath: Participants recite the oath, pledging allegiance to Germany’s democratic values and constitution.
- Certificate presentation: New citizens receive their naturalization certificates.
The Content of the Oath
While the exact wording may vary slightly between federal states, the core message of the German citizenship oath remains consistent. Here’s a general outline of what new citizens promise:
| Aspect | Commitment |
|---|---|
| Constitution | To uphold and defend the German Constitution (Basic Law) |
| Laws | To observe and respect German laws |
| Democratic values | To support democratic principles and freedoms |
| Rights and duties | To fulfill civic responsibilities and exercise rights responsibly |
| Integration | To contribute positively to German society |
Berlin’s Citizenship Oath Text
To provide a concrete example, let’s look at the citizenship oath text used in Berlin:
“Ich erkläre feierlich, dass ich das Grundgesetz und die Gesetze der Bundesrepublik Deutschland achten und alles unterlassen werde, was ihr schaden könnte.”
In English, this translates to:
“I solemnly declare that I will respect the Basic Law and the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany and refrain from anything that might cause her harm.”
This oath, while brief, encapsulates the key commitments expected of new German citizens:
- Respecting the Basic Law (German Constitution)
- Obeying German laws
- Actively avoiding actions that could harm Germany
It’s worth noting that this oath is typically accompanied by a handshake with an official representative, symbolizing the mutual commitment between the new citizen and the German state.
The German citizenship oath is more than just a formality; it represents a new chapter in the lives of those who choose to make Germany their home. With the new citizenship law making the process more accessible, more people than ever have the opportunity to take this solemn pledge and become full members of German society.
As Germany continues to evolve as a diverse and welcoming nation, the citizenship oath serves as a reminder of the shared values and responsibilities that unite all citizens, regardless of their origins. The simplicity and directness of oaths like Berlin’s underscore the fundamental expectations placed on new citizens, while also highlighting the gravity and importance of the naturalization process.
Master the Einbürgerungstest
