Now Brexit is finally “done” – can I still restore German citizenship without surrendering my British one?

By Sara Leshem

In a nutshell – Yes. Restoring German citizenship under Article 116 (2) is independent of Brexit related laws. Those eligible can apply without fear of having to surrender their British citizenship or approaching deadlines.

On 31.12.2020 at precisely 23.00h amidst a global pandemic and most of the country in tight lockdown, the UK formerly split from the EU. After years of agonising Brexit talk, a new era for the UK began. The contentious 2016 vote to leave the European Union, was actioned.

Not surprisingly, the prime minister announced, it was the “cakiest treaty ” but many are yet to be convinced. Despite bold proclamations that “we have completed the biggest trade deal yet between the UK and the EU ” businesses have copious amount of red tape to negotiate. UK citizens have serious adjustments of their own to navigate. Details are emerging as to how Brexit will affect travel & customs declarations, work permits, border checks, transfer of animals, plants, etc. What’s certain is the imminent disappearance of the burgundy British/EU passport, set to be crudely replaced by a blue, star free, British one. For almost half of UK voters , a painful symbol of a decision to leave the EU which they didn’t support.

Why lose EU privileges if you can retain them?

Now more than ever, if you are eligible, restoring German citizenship and securing your EU privileges, is desirable for many reasons:

German citizenship provides access to the entire EU, not only Germany
Visa free travel in the EU and significant other territories
Ability to work for any period of time in the EU, regardless whether employed by a UK or EU based employer (UK citizens are now limited)
Access to overseas higher education
Health care benefits
Access to excellent consular services
Right to property ownership
Fast track through customs

How do I determine my eligibility?

Let us help. If you have former German ancestors but remain unsure if you’re eligible, contact us for a free, no obligation initial consultation. Share your background and any supporting documental evidence and we’ll evaluate your chances at a successful petition.

If key supporting evidence is lacking or inconclusive, our research service in Germany’s state and national archives is available to investigate the former citizenship of your ancestor.

When your eligibility to proceed to petition stage is confirmed, GCR will manage, advise and assist in the preparation of all official documents and undergo thorough checks before sending across to the authorities in Germany.

Our expertise lies in meeting the German authorities’ exact requirements. By the time a client’s petition is presented to the Bundesverwaltungsamt, the evidence is watertight and there are no grounds to deny or delay their application. We do not proceed to petition stage unless we are 100% confident of a positive outcome.

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