German Citizenship by Descent Through Grandparents
For those of us lucky enough, having close grandparents in our children’s lives, is a true blessing. In fact, a high level of grandparental involvement significantly increases a child’s well-being and overall happiness. Nothing trumps the unconditional love and affection a grandparent can provide. Equally for parents, the advantage of extra support is immeasurable.
The benefits of grandparents are endless, I could write a thesis on the subject. However, in today’s turbulent political climate, there’s a specific advantage German Jewish grandparents can bestow upon their descendants. According to Article 116 (2) of the German Basic Law, German Jews who had their citizenship stripped from them due to Nazi persecution between 1933–1945 may be entitled to have that citizenship restored.
Where German citizenship is successfully restored to a former citizen, that restoration can also create a legal pathway for their descendants to apply for German citizenship by descent. Herein lies the great advantage, more precious than treats and pocket money combined. Eligible German Jewish grandparents can offer their grandchildren the rare gift of opportunity. According to that law, as former citizens, their descendants are entitled to restore citizenship. As, had the unlawful deprivation not occurred, they would have still been considered German today.
Restoring German Citizenship and consequently, acquiring an EU citizenship provides your family with immeasurable opportunities to live, work or study in Europe. Most importantly, UK or US citizenships do not have to be surrendered to benefit from the German one.
And as my wise Grandparents once told me – always embrace opportunity even if it comes from the unlikeliest of places.
How do I Apply for German Citizenship Through My Grandparents?
What’s Needed to Investigate German Citizenship Eligibility?
Relatively little, as a minimum:
1) The name of the grandparent in question, as given to them in Germany (i.e. before a possible name change occurred)
2) Their date and place of birth
We can conduct a thorough investigation in the German archives based on the information above. Nevertheless, the following is helpful:
1) The names, dates and places of birth of their parents or siblings
2) The date they left Germany
3) What school/university they have attended
4) Where they worked
5) Whether at any time they received an indemnification payment from Germany of any kind, i.e. one-time payment or pension
6) What properties the family had owned
7) Whether subsequent citizenships were acquired and if so, where and when
8) If any original or copies of official documentation exist
Share as much information as possible on your family for a full assessment. In the event that documental evidence of former citizenship is missing, GCR has a research service available. Even with a minimal amount of information, we may still be able to assist you.
Contact us on + 44-20-8066-9900 / info@germanpassport.co.uk for a free, no obligation, confidential consultation.