WHY GERMANY

Name: Study In Germany
Brand: YES Germany
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Studying in Germany is the dream of every student. Germany, known for its diversity, inclusive values, and high standard of living, it is internationally recognized as one of the best countries to live and study in. It is known for its natural beauty and wildlife, so take the chance to explore it while you’re here!

There are many scholarships for international students to fund their studies by DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service).

There are a variety of higher education institutions in Germany include colleges, technical and applied arts/science schools, and universities that grant both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, such as bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

Education System in Germany

Germany, the largest economy in the European Union and third in the world, is home to some of the most renowned researchers of the history, like Albert Einstein, Max Planck or Alexander von Humboldt, just to mention a few of them.

LIVING IN GERMANY

This country is where people go to succeed, it is basically a country of hope, success, research, and innovation. The beautiful landscape, numerous castles, and the interesting architecture play their part when it comes to attracting expats.

After you have gone through the bureaucratic nightmare of getting your residence permit, working permit or citizenship, you are ready to explore what Germany is all about. Of course you have heard that this is the European land of opportunities with beautiful cities and towns, and it’s all so very clean. But what is life in Germany really like? Here we will go through a few characteristics of life in Germany, the best and cheapest places to live in Germany, as well as the cost of living.

The currency

The Euro is the official currency of Germany. You might have known this, but if you come from a country where the currency is different, be advised that you will need to exchange it for Euros or you won’t be able to buy anything. The other option is for you to use your debit or credit card, which will then be charged with the expenses.

The language

Germans speak German. Of course, they speak other languages such as English, but to get around the country, it is best to at least have some basic language skills. You might be frowned upon if you have no idea how to say hi, please, and thank you in German. Learning the rest of it is pretty difficult as the grammar rules are challenging, but in every city or town you live in, there will be a language school which offers German language courses.

It’s peaceful there

Life is pretty busy in Germany as in any other place. But in general, there is peace and quiet anywhere you go. Except for the clubs, which will rave with techno music. Other than that, you will find that Germans love their silence, that there is low corruption, and that it won’t be that difficult to find a job.

Germans love their rules

It’s the stereotypical opinion, but Germans are a rule loving bunch of people. They have written and unwritten laws which they adhere to religiously. And if you do something wrong, don’t expect to be let off the hook. Dare to jaywalk and cross the street on a red pedestrian light and you will inevitably either get a dirty look or someone will stop and scold you. So read up and get informed on what you can and cannot do in your new home.

Better workers’ rights

Employees are valued in Germany quite a lot. If you are an American living in Germany, you might have noticed this more than others. Employees have a lot of organizations that protect their rights and if you complain, someone will listen. As an employee, you will not be exploited and are not at the mercy of a mean boss.

Bad customer service

If you live in a place where the saying “the customer is king” prevails, then you will be thoroughly surprised in Germany. Germans have a poor habit of not giving stellar customer service, or at least not at the level which most Americans or Canadians are used to.

Apartment furnishing

Never mind that finding a place to live is quite difficult and expensive with all the fees you’ll have to pay. But when you move in, you will find the apartment empty. If you’re used to moving into a new place and having a few cupboards, a kitchen and a bathroom sink, and maybe a bed frame or closet, forget about that. Most German apartments don’t even have light fixtures, let alone other things. So be prepared to buy a kitchen and other furnishings when you move into your new home. You can find cheap things on your local newspaper listings or in a used furniture store.

Good public transport

The train and bus are on time. They are also clean. Public transport is widely used in Germany and it is an incredibly good experience. If you’re used to saying that your bus or train were late as an excuse for not getting to work on time, that won’t be acceptable in Germany. Order and timeliness are extremely appreciated here, so you’ll have a great time using public transport.

Cities built for bikes

The roads in Germany are built for all kinds of transport. They are pedestrian friendly, and most important, bicycle friendly. When you move to a new city, the cheapest transport mode will be by bike, so you can use this in Germany a lot. Almost all roads have a specially designed lane for bikes and you will see cyclists everywhere.

Recycling friendly

Order in Germany goes so far as to include your trash. You will see special bins for all kinds of garbage and there is a specific time when you must do your recycling. Germany is an environmentally friendly country, so you should brush up on your recycling skills and learn what materials go where when you move there.

A good education system

Education is well ordered in Germany. You will most likely not have to pay any tuition for university, or maybe just a few hundred euros per semester. The difference with U.S tuition, for example, is astounding. Whereas in the U.S you graduate with a mountain of debt, in Germany, you can start earning a full salary without the burden of paying back your education.

Everything closes down on Sunday

This might sound strange, but it is not a myth. All stores are closed down on Saturday evening and do not open until Monday morning. Sunday is a time of rest (or drinking) in Germany, so anticipate it and use it well. Most foreigners when they first move to Germany forget this important fact and might end up without bread on Sunday, so be sure to go to the store on Saturday and pick up food and other things you need.

Lots of travelling opportunities

Germany is in the middle of Europe. And travelling in Europe is much cheaper than in other places, especially in the U.S. You can be in another country in a few hours. It gives you immense opportunities to travel even within the country as it is quite big, and outside of it too, to see different cultures.

Good food

People go to Germany with the expectation of eating lots of sausage and nothing else. Germany has a wide selection of foods, from the meat to the desserts. You get a huge range of breads and other baked goods as well. You might not be able to find the comfort foods of your own country easily, but you will have the opportunity to try many different dishes and ingredients that will be delicious.

And of course amazing beer

The crown jewel of Germany is of course the beer. Everyone knows it and everyone expects it. The beer is brewed better and the selection is humongous. So you’ll get to try amazing beer flavors and it won’t be extremely expensive.

What are the best places to live in Germany?

If you still haven’t chosen a place to stay in Germany, don’t rush into deciding. Germany is a huge country and each place has a distinct atmosphere and opportunities. So here we have listed some of the best cities to live in Germany according to job opportunities. Many high ranked German companies are located there and they all have vibrant infrastructure and high salary potential. They are also in the top cities of the world to live in, so you won’t go wrong if you move to any of them.

If you are on a budget and expect to not be making a lot of money the first few months or years when you are in the country, it is best to move to one of the cities above. Avoid moving to huge cities and the capital Berlin, since they are extremely expensive.

SAFETY & SECURITY IN GERMANY

Germany is one of the top twenty safest countries in the world according to the 2017 Global Peace Index. The security situation in Germany is generally very good and the crime rate is low. In many public facilities, on public transportation, and along streets you will find surveillance cameras and security checks, indicated by clear signage.

Germany is one of the most advanced countries in terms of technology which also makes it one of the safest places to live. Germany is top rated places among students from across the globe because of the student friendly environment, government and rules & regulations. Once can find several reasons to feel like home in Germany. It is known as one of the most calm and peaceful cities with a flare in technology. Germany has largely been untouched by serious natural disasters. Apart from a safe dwelling place naturally, it is also a very stable country in terms of government and politics. People are educated and advanced and thus everything happens in the smoothest manner.

These few points will make you believe that it has a great safety and security

According to Global Peace Index, it is one of the most peaceful country in the world
Ranked 15th in 153 participating countries in that index, above France and Italy
Germany is ranked on top for political stability also
Germans have a respect for human and civil rights.
90 percent are very or quite happy here.

These were the findings of the “Integration Barometer”, a survey of German citizens conducted in 2010. The survey also showed that people with foreign roots have a particularly favorable view of Germany. Of that group, 95 percent report that they are happy in Germany. So if you are planning to study in Germany, you are at the right track. From there you can open up your horizons in endless opportunities and a great career.

What proves that Germany is safe?

There are many indications that Germany is safe for travelers:

Germany is the 7th most active tourist destination-country in the world.
Germany provides its guests with a variety of tourist services, starting with the sophisticated public transport network, which includes fast trains, underground trains, buses, and taxis as well as numerous hotels, guest houses, restaurants and cafes, theaters, and parks.
Germany has witnessed a significant growth in the tourism sector, where the number of tourists who visit Germany annually is more than 25 million tourists and domestic and foreign tourism reported 450 million overnight stays in 2016.
The tourism industry generates about 3.2% of Germany’s gross domestic product (GDP), directly through small and medium-sized tourism projects such as hotels and guesthouses throughout the country.

HEALTH FACILITIES

Foreign students in Germany are required by law to have some form of healthcare cover. If you are planning to study abroad, then chances are you have come across the requirement of health insurance. Like many countries abroad, Health Insurance is mandatory for students planning to study in Germany. This is applicable to one and all. With no such norm in India, students are often left wondering what this is about and how to go about it. Here’s a brief introduction to the same.

Health Insurance

Speaking plainly, healthcare is very expensive abroad. As students would be staying in Germany for a period extending from 2 to 4 years, it becomes necessary for them to be insured for any ailment. With that in mind, Health Insurance is a mandatory requirement for students studying in the country. Also, while the students enroll in a short term program/ language programs are not required to have health insurance as a rule, insurance as such never hurts and would be a good idea.

While European Union Health Cards are valid, for international students outside of the EU, there are two broad options available – Public/ Private Health Insurance from Germany or Private Insurance from their Home Country.

Public Health Insurance from Germany

Germany as a country requires mandatory health cover to all falling under the fixed income slab of €50,000 per annum. This Public Insurance has tied up with various agencies to provide highly subsidized Student Health Cover to International Students as well. On an average, a Public Health Insurance costs you about €80 per month.

The public health insurance for students covers all aspects of health care for a student that can be foreseen. Also, the cost mentioned above is valid till about the student reaches an age of 30 or completes the 14th Semester at the University. Beyond that, the cost per month doubles to about €160 per month.

Private Insurance from Germany

There are many private providers as well and students have an option of taking up these policies as well. While some universities might insist on the Public Health Insurance, many others might accept private insurance as well. The students are, however, advised to carefully go through the cover provided. Often there is a minimum level of insurance which is required and it is always better to check that with the University.

Private Insurance from Home Country

A lot of private insurances offered in India are recognized in Germany across different divisions of health care. These are much cheaper as well and offer a whole lot of benefits and ease to the students. In case a student is opting for this path, it is important to let the university know of it well in advance.

Insurance from Germany vs Home Country

Needless to say, buying insurance from India is hassle free and the insurance providers clearly specify the range of services covered in the same. However, if given a choice, the students are recommended to opt for Public Insurance. A subsidized rate, the public health insurance promises widest cover and is recognized not only in Germany but also across the European Union. This might not be the case for the health insurance policy bought in the home country.

Where to get it from?

Students can always select for the University’s international office to provide the number of the health insurance provider. Once they arrive in Germany, students are required to contact a German health insurance provider and have them issue a letter certifying that they are insured. This is mandatory for the students’ admission. Students can also get in touch with DAAD in India or reach out to the student councils (Studentenwerk) of the university they are planning to enroll in. (There is usually one for a region.)These organizations have special packages that include accommodation in student halls of residence, meal tickets as well as health insurance coverage

INDUSTRIES IN GERMANY

Germany is a world-renowned business and manufacturing location. From the historically-famous automobile industry, through chemicals and engineering, to digital innovations and Industries 4.0, Germany has consistently been at the forefront of industrial leadership.

Now celebrated as a global place of innovation and a pioneer of the new Industries 4.0 concept, Germany is continuing to evolve into the digital age and embrace new industries, such as environmental technology, additive manufacturing and the digital economy. With a world-class infrastructure, a skilled and flexible labour force and a national strategy geared towards innovation, Germany is a place for all-comers to invest in.

Industrial Germany: Six Strong Numbers

In Germany, industry is the foundation for growth – much more so than in other countries Prosperity.

Gross value added in the Manufacturing Sector

Manufacturing contributed 23.4 percent to gross value added in Germany in 2017. By comparison: in France the share was 12.7, in the UK 10.1 percent.

Turnover in Industry

Turnover in the manufacturing companies amounted to 1,893 billion euros in 2017. The top sector was the automotive industry with 425 billion euros.

Employees in Industry

6.2 million employees worked in Germany in 2017 in 45,308 industrial enterprises with 20 or more employees. That’s more people than Denmark has inhabitants.

Germany’s most Important Industries

4 dominant industries in Germany: the automotive, mechanical engineering, chemical and electrical industries.

The global players are Volkswagen, Daimler, BMW (all automotive), BASF (chemical) and Siemens (electrical). Mechanical engineering is characterized by small and medium-sized enterprises.

Industry’s export quota

Industry’s export ratio is 48.4 percent – and German automotive manufacturers produce twice as many cars abroad than at home.

Investment in Research

The manufacturing sectors invested 53.4 billion euros in research and development in 2016. The figure for the rest of the economy was 9.5 billion euros.

PART TIME / FULL TIME JOBS

There are many considerations that affect a student’s decision to choose a country. While some look for top colleges, some look for extensive programs and research options and many look for post-study work options in the country. Some do it for earning a little extra on the side to enjoy their stay, some for having something better to do and some others to get a start to their professional careers. Whatever be the reason, part-time study options are a great factor in the decision-making process. So what is the verdict on Germany?

Before we explore the same in some depth, we must mention that there are two aspects to part-time work. One being the eligibility and laws relevant to part-time work options for international students and second would be the more obvious – the choices available. Let’s look at them individually.

Laws for Student Part-time jobs

As an international student, you are allowed to take up part-time employment along with your studies while in Germany. Here are a few things you need to keep in mind though.

You can work for a total of 120 full or 240 half days in a year as a student. This, however, might vary from high employment regions to low employment regions. Simply put, if your university is in a place which is in a city which has high unemployment rates, or requires more manpower, you might just get a work permit of more than 120 days.
Usually, as per university norms, a student would not be allowed to work for more than 20 hours in a week during term. Students, however, can take up full-time employment during vacations.
A work permit from the “Agentur für Arbeit” (Federal Employment Agency) and the foreigners’ authority is required. The permit would have details of the maximum limit of work a student can take up.
If you are enrolled in a preparatory course or a language course, the regulations are tighter. As such, you are allowed only to work during the lecture-free periods and only with explicit permission to do so from the foreign authority.
Taxation is another concern. A student earning less than 450 euros a month need not pay any taxes/ social security contribution. Also, if you work for less than 50 continuous days over a period of one year, you are exempt as well.
Working for more than 20 hours a week is generally not advised. Not only is it against most university rules, working more than this limit would require you to pay health insurance, unemployment as well as nursing care insurance.
Compliance with the Federal Laws is extremely important. If you are found to be flouting them, you can find yourself being expelled from the country. So, keep the checks in place, conform to the rules and have your permit in place.
When it comes to working within the University, though, the working hours and wages are completed differently. In fact, they are far better and you can work for long hours as well. Getting a job in the University, however, might not be as easy.

Kinds of Jobs

Teaching / Graduate/ Research Assistants at the University

Typically, the job of teaching/ graduate assistants are open to research scholars and pay decent enough money. These jobs include assisting the professor with marking copies, giving tutorials or preparing research literature, as supervisors, as librarians, etc. On a hierarchy of the kinds of jobs available, these are at the top of the line. You have to be really good and apply early to get one. These jobs are well advertised on the university notice boards and you can find about them with the department you are part of.

As support staff/ waiters at café’s, bars, etc.

Waiting or catering assignments are often the most famous jobs among kids. Many students opt for this for more reasons than the money. While the pay may not be more or even basic, it gives the student a great opportunity to explore the city, meet new people and simply unwind after the day at the university. Not to forget, the tips are good too.

English Tutors

Another lucrative job opportunity for international students is teaching English to German Students. There are often private tuitions and it is a decent payout. You have to be proficient in the language though and for Indian students, this might not be so forthcoming! A student from the UK, for instance, would be more eligible.

Industrial Production Assistants

These are well-paying jobs and are a good option for students looking for some experience and a more relevant employment option after the studies. With Germany giving you a 1-year post-study work permit with your student visas, finding these jobs could be the precursor to a career in Germany. A student can find these jobs in the local newspapers.

How much do they pay?

Coming to the most important aspect now…the earnings you can expect from these part-time jobs. A student, on average, earns anywhere between 5 to 15 euros an hour and roughly around 450 euros a month. Usually, the wages are higher in big cities but the cost of living in those cities is also on the higher side. This is average pay at which a student need not pay any taxes. A research assistant, however, would earn more than that and would be exempt as well. Computing that, somewhere around 8354 euros is the standard limit of one-year earnings that do not attract taxation or issuance of social security.

PERMANENT RESIDENCE(PR)

A German settlement permit is a permanent residence for foreigners who have lawfully lived for a number of years in Germany. It authorizes you to unlimitedly live, work, study and bring your family members in Germany. After 8 years spent in Germany with a settlement permit, you can require naturalization.

What is a German settlement permit for foreign graduates of German universities?

It can be received if you have entered Germany for studying here. To qualify, you must be a graduate of a German higher education institution. This can be a state, state-approved or an equivalent institution of higher education.

You must have worked here for at least two years after graduation. Your job must have matched your academic qualification received here. You must have held a residence permit for work, or self-employment or an EU Blue Card after graduation. Same time, for the entire time you must have paid their pension insurance.

During this period, you must not have been involved in any criminal activity, including charges.

Which are the requirements to apply for a residence permit as a foreign graduate in Germany?

There is quite little evidence you must provide when requiring a settlement permit as a foreign graduate. Send these evidencing documents in original form, and accompany them by a photocopy.

Here is the list of complete documentation you need to apply for a German settlement permit as a foreign graduate:

Duly completed application form. Complete and send the form “Antrag auf Erteilung der Niederlassungserlaubnis”.
Valid national passport holding a valid residence permit.
1 biometric photograph.
Degree awarding certificate. It has to be issued by a recognized German higher education provider. It must show the level of the academic title received between bachelor, master, PhD, diploma.
Evidence of employment for the past two years.
Employment contract. If you are employed in the current job for less than 2 years.
Proof of paid pension insurance. It must cover a two year period. It has to show paid private or statutory pension insurance.
Proof of previous freelance work. (If relevant).
Covered health insurance.
Proof of accommodation and registration. (Send both).
Rental contract.
Letter of the address registration “Meldebestätigung”.
Professional license. If you have worked or working in a job listed amid Germany’s regulated professions.
Recognized German language certificate. Otherwise, you can provide another recognized evidence showing you have German language proficiency of minimum B1 level of the CEFR.
Appropriate means of subsistence. This money must be enough for covering your living and accommodation costs.
Declaration about earlier convictions. (If related).
Declaration about any social security benefit received. (If related).
Evidence of current employment/self-employment.

If employed:

The existing employment contract.
Proof of salary receipt. They must cover the recent six months.
Bank account statements.
Salary slips.
Certificate of employment. It must be issued by your employer, and it has to be formal. It has to be produced in the recent 2 weeks.

If self-employed:

Audit report. It must be completed by tax consultants, certified public accountants or authorized persons. It has to be accompanied by the commercial register excerpt.
Latest tax notice.
Evidence of a business workspace and related costs.
Rental contract. It must show the monthly rent (for a rented property).
Purchase contract. It must show the cost of the property (for an owned property).

Note: Because every applicant’s circumstances are unique, other documents may be required as the case may be.

The payable fee to apply for a settlement permit is 135 Euros, while it is 200 Euros if you are self-employed persons.

Where to submit the application for a settlement permit?

If you have reached the eligibility criteria for a German settlement permit, contact the local Foreigner’s Registration Office. It is the key authority to counsel you which the proper competent department for you to apply is. Depending on your nationality, a different department may be in charge of receiving your settlement permit application.

CITIZENSHIP

Taking into account that Germany is a country many people want to live, work, and study in, they also want to know how to get German citizenship. Germany is a country full of bureaucratic procedures and red tape, so naturally, even the German Federal Foreign Office states that citizenship law is immensely complicated.

Nevertheless, we have divided this guide into comprehensive sections, which can provide you with tips, requirements, and application procedures that show you how to become a German citizen.

What does it mean to have German Citizenship?

When you are living in Germany only as a permanent resident, you do not qualify as a citizen of Germany. This puts some restrictions in your status, and that is why so many permanent residents of Germany seek to get citizenship.

Having German citizenship gives you rights and freedoms that non-citizens do not have. You will have these opportunities as a German citizen:

The right to vote
The right of free movement
The right of assembly and association
The right of consular protection
Unrestricted access to find a job in Germany
The right to become a civil servant, etc.

Besides the rights as per the German constitution, you will also have the obligations and duties that each German citizen has. This includes the integration in society, respect for and obedience of all laws, and even German military service.

Types of German Citizenship

Becoming a German citizen is not possible under all circumstances. There are three general instances that can lead to you getting German citizenship.

By naturalization
By right of blood or in Latin Jus Sanguinis
By right of soil or in Latin Jus Soli

Getting citizenship by naturalization implies that you have fulfilled certain requirements that the German government has set and you qualify to apply for German citizenship. The other type, by right of blood or Jus Sanguinis means that you get German citizenship if you are a direct descendant of German citizens. This includes only your parents and no other relatives. By right of soil or Jus Soli means that you are born within the borders of Germany, so in German soil and that is how you get your citizenship.

All people with the exception of EU, EEA, or Swiss nationals, must fulfill requirements and fall into one of these categories for getting German citizenship.

Despite these three instances being quite straightforward, each one of them has its own rules and regulations, which we will discuss further.

German Naturalization

German naturalization means that after a certain period of living in Germany as a permanent resident, you apply to become a citizen. There are many restrictions and requirements for obtaining naturalization, so not everyone can get it.

German Citizenship Requirements for Naturalization

The requirements that you need to fulfill in order to qualify for naturalization are as follows:

You must have lived in Germany on a residence permit for at least 8 years, or
You must have lived in Germany on a residence permit for 7 years and attended an integration course (this becomes 6 years on special integration circumstances)
You must prove German language proficiency of at least B1
You must be financially able to support yourself and your family without any help from the state
You must be a law-abiding citizen with no criminal record
You must pass a citizenship test
You must renounce any previous citizenships

Your residence records are in the government system so that will be an easy requirement to fulfill. For financial stability, you can submit bank statements and other documents, which state your financial situation. In addition, you must give up all previous citizenships, except if the other country does not allow it or it is impossible to give it up. This is the case with many countries in conflict, such as Syria.

One of the most important requirements in this case, which you must prove through testing is your language proficiency. You can prove that you know German up to the B1 level required by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, by providing any of these documents:

A German language certificate
A certificate which proves you have completed a German secondary school
Admissions proof in a German upper secondary school
A certificate which proves you have completed at least 4 years of school in German with a passing grade

Proof of completion of higher education degrees in German

If you do not have any document, which proves your language proficiency, you can complete a government language test administered by your citizenship authority. Either way, you must know German in order to be eligible for naturalization or any other type of German citizenship.

How to apply for German Citizenship Naturalization?

If you can prove that you meet all the requirements for naturalization, you can begin your application process. All persons over the age of 16 are obliged to apply. Parents and legal guardians of children under 16 years old apply for them. The steps to applying for naturalization are as follows:

Get an application form

Since Germany is a big country, each state and place has their immigration office to apply for naturalization. To begin the process, you must get a naturalization application form from one of the following places:

The local immigration office
If you live in an urban area, go to the city council
If you live in a German district, go to the regional district office
The town council or any other local authorities

Fill the application form and start compiling a file with all documents, which prove you meet the requirements.

Pass the German Citizenship Test

To prove that you are ready to gain German citizenship, you must pass the citizenship test. This test includes 33 multiple choice questions on German living, society, rules, and laws, as well as questions specific to the place you live. The test takes one hour and you must answer at least 17 questions correctly to pass the test. When you pass the test, you will get a naturalization certificate, which you can add to your document file.

To prepare for the test, you can take an integration course, use the practice test options of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees, or simply read more information on German life and laws.

You can be exempt from the naturalization test if you belong to any of these groups:
You cannot take the test due to old age, illness, or disability
You are under 16 years old
You have a higher education degree from a German university in politics, law, or social sciences

German Citizenship by Marriage

People who qualify for naturalization are not only those who have had permanent residence in Germany for a specified period of time. If you marry a German citizen you can also get citizenship by applying for naturalization.

Foreign nationals who are already married to a German national must still meet all naturalization requirements and pass the test. However, they should also meet the marriage requirements. This means that the foreign national spouse cannot apply for naturalization unless the couple has been married for at least two years and have lived in Germany for at least three years.

German Citizenship by Descent

The second type of German citizenship is by right of blood or Jus Sanguinis. This means that you have at least one German parent and it does not take into account whether you were born in Germany or not. You get the German citizenship by descent if your parents register you to the German authorities in the country you are born before you turn one year old. If your parents have different nationalities, you get the German citizenship; however, between the ages of 18 and 23 years old, you will have 5 years to decide which nationality you want to retain.

In addition, if your parents are divorced, then you can get German citizenship by descent only if your parents recognize you as their legal child by the rules of German law.

You cannot get German citizenship if you were born in a foreign country and your German parents were also born in a foreign country after January 1st, 2000. This rule can be surpassed only if you as the child would be stateless if the German authorities did not accept you and give you a German citizenship. In addition, you cannot claim German citizenship through any other ancestors except your parents, including German citizenship through grandparents.

Another instance where you can get German citizenship through ancestry is if you were adopted by German citizens as a child under 18 years old.

German citizenship by Birth

If you do not have German parents, but are born within the borders of Germany, you qualify for citizenship by birth or by right of soil. This is also the Jus Soli citizenship. You can get this type of citizenship on the following conditions:
If at least one of your parents has lived in Germany for at least 8 years before the birth of the child
If at the time the child is born, one of the parents had a permanent residence permit
In getting this type of citizenship, the child will again have to choose the citizenship of the parents or the citizenship of Germany between the ages of 18 and 23 years old. The child must give up the nationalities of the parents in order to get the German one, or apply for dual citizenship.
Only children born after February 2nd, 1990, have the right to get this type of citizenship.

Giving up the German Citizenship

German rules do not allow its citizens to give up the German citizenship. More specifically, if the German citizen wants to renounce their citizenship to avoid obligation to Germany such as taxes or military service, they will not be allowed to do this. So since you cannot give up the citizenship, you can lose it under these circumstances:

If you request it from the German authorities and another country has offered you citizenship
If a German child is adopted by a foreigner, they will lose German citizenship
If you join the military forces of the country where you hold another citizenship without the permission of the German authorities
If you obtain another citizenship, you will lose the German citizenship
If your citizenship has been obtained through naturalization and you lose it due to illegal activities

Re-naturalization of German Citizenship

If you have renounced your German citizenship in the past or have lost it for reasons other than criminal activity, you can apply for re-naturalization. The procedure will be the same as with those who apply for naturalization the first time, and you will have to give up all previous citizenships.

Top Reasons why you can Study in Germany?

High-Quality Education

Here In Germany, students have a chance to get a great level of education. When talking about the best education standards, Germany holds its place as one of the top levels. Degrees from Germany are accepted and approved all around the world. To meet the high-quality standards, all the programs are reviewed by the institutions, and before granting membership, colleges need to fulfill membership standards.

World-class Educational Institutes

Germany is home to some of the top universities in the world. Universities in Germany are internationally-recognized, affordable, and ready to meet the variety of educational needs of local and international students.

Choose a program which you like

The universities in Germany offer various graduate, postgraduate, masters, and Ph.D. programs in various fields. You can choose from thousands of Programs offered by German Universities. With so many options, you have a chance to choose one of them that meet your requirements.

Affordable Education Cost

A study abroad candidate has to take into consideration the financial aspect, which forms an essential part of the study abroad decision. The cost of education in Germany is less expensive as compared to countries like U.S.A, Australia, and other preferred education destinations.

Easy Student Visa

As compared to other countries, the student visa process is fairly simple for Germany. They have made the visa application process easy and fast for Indian students wishing to study in Germany.

Top Most Universities for Study in Germany

Berlin Institute of Technology (TechnischeUniversität Berlin): TU Berlin is a research university located in Berlin, Germany which has one of the highest proportions of international students in Germany, almost 27% in 2019.
University of Stuttgart: It was founded in 1829 and is one of the oldest technical universities in Germany with highly ranked programs in civil, mechanical, industrial, and electrical engineering. It is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities in the various international ranking.
University of Hamburg: It was founded on 28 March 1919, the university has been ranked in the top 200 universities worldwide by the Times Higher Education Ranking, placing it among the top 1% of global universities.