Check the authority’s document list
Use the information from your nationality authority as your starting point. ABBA-Sprachendienste cannot replace advice on naturalisation law.
Purpose · Naturalisation
Have documents translated for naturalisation
For naturalisation procedures, civil-status and identity documents from your country of origin may be relevant, among others. ABBA-Sprachendienste translates the documents requested; your nationality authority decides which evidence is required in full and in what form.
Guidance
Check the authority’s document list first, then arrange the right translation
The official federal naturalisation brochure lists documents including a passport or identity card, marriage or birth certificates and, where applicable, divorce judgments. Evidence, particularly certificates from the country of origin, should generally be presented at the appointment with the authority both in the original and as a certified German translation. The authority may require additional documents in individual cases.
Federal information: Mein Weg zum deutschen PassOfficial overview of the process and typical documents; the responsible authority decides in each individual case.
Process
The right enquiry in three steps
Identify documents clearly
Tell us the type of document, country of issue, source language and the target language you need. Also let us know whether the authority has already asked for a particular format.
Agree on the spelling of names
If different scripts are involved, compare the spelling in your passport, residence permit and existing certificates. A different transliteration can lead to queries.
Distinguishing the terms
Not every form of certification means the same thing
The exact requirement comes from the authority receiving the document. Knowing the difference helps avoid follow-up questions before you place an order.
- Original
- The document as issued by the issuing office. Do not send originals to ABBA unless we ask for them; for the initial check, the agreed secure transfer channel is enough.
- Certified copy
- Confirms that a copy matches the original presented. It does not certify the content of a translation.
- Certified translation
- Includes the translation and a certification statement from the duly authorised or sworn person.
Preparation
This information speeds up the assessment
- Document list or message from the authority
- Document type and country of issue
- Source and target language
- Spelling of names as shown in the passport or identity document
- Submission deadline and responsible authority
Frequently asked questions
Which documents are translated for naturalisation?
Depending on your case, birth or marriage certificates and other evidence may be relevant, for example. What counts is the document list from your nationality authority.
Does a certified translation guarantee acceptance by the authority?
No. ABBA-Sprachendienste certifies the translation within the scope of the relevant authorisation. The responsible authority decides whether the documents are complete and will be accepted.
What matters when names have different spellings?
Tell us the spelling shown in your passport or identity document and any differing variants. That way, the transliteration can be agreed before translation and documented transparently.
Have your naturalisation documents checked
Tell us the document type, language, responsible authority and deadline. Only send sensitive documents via the secure channel provided for this.
