Germany: Citizenship by Descent

Reclaim Your German Citizenship

Germany’s citizenship laws have evolved over time, and a careful review of your family’s history is essential. Andenhouse Advisors specializes in navigating these nuances, particularly for those who lost their German citizenship due to historical injustices.

Key Eligibility Pathways:

Descendants of German Citizens: The primary route is through your parents or, in some cases, your grandparents. German citizenship is generally passed down through the male line, but recent legal changes have created new opportunities for those with a German mother.
Restitution for Victims of Nazi Persecution: Article 116 of the German Basic Law allows for the restoration of citizenship to those who were deprived of it between January 30, 1933, and May 8, 1945, on political, racial, or religious grounds. This right extends to their descendants, offering a significant opportunity to reclaim German heritage.
Recent Legal Changes: The German government has enacted a “10-year declaration” option for descendants of Germans who were unjustly excluded from citizenship in the past. This includes children born in wedlock to a German mother and non-German father before 1975, and children born out of wedlock to a German father and non-German mother before 1993.

Behind every application is a personal story: How We Help

Eligibility Assessment
Vital Records Retrieval (Austria & International)
Legal Compliance & Restitution Claims
Certified Translations & Apostilles

Application Preparation & Filing
Liaison with Consulates & Authorities
Ongoing Support & Guidance
Strategic Advice for Complex Cases

Begin Your Journey Today

If you’re ready to explore your eligibility for citizenship by descent—or need help making sense of your legal options—Andenhouse Advisors is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your European citizenship.