Have you or your family been directly impacted by the atrocities of the Nazi regime? Did your ancestors lose their German citizenship due to political, racial, or religious persecution? If so, you may be entitled to reclaim your rightful German citizenship under the German Constitution.

A Right Restored by the German Constitution

Between January 30, 1933, and May 8, 1945, countless individuals were stripped of their German citizenship due to Nazi persecution. The German Constitution now provides a pathway for these victims, as well as their descendants, to be renaturalized and restore a part of their heritage that was unjustly taken away.

Did you know that the scope of who can claim renaturalization has expanded? In a landmark decision by the Supreme Federal Constitutional Court on May 20, 2020, the eligibility criteria were broadened, opening doors for many more descendants of victims. Could this be an opportunity for you or your family to reclaim your German citizenship?

Who Is Eligible?

Descendants who may be eligible under this expanded law include:

• Children born in wedlock to German mothers forcibly expatriated and foreign fathers before April 1, 1953.
• Children born out of wedlock to German fathers forcibly expatriated and foreign mothers before July 1, 1993.

Are you a descendant of someone who suffered under the Nazi regime? If you believe your family's story fits within these criteria, this may be a crucial opportunity to explore.

Alternative Pathways: The 4th Citizenship Amendment Act

Even if renaturalization under the German Constitution doesn't apply to your situation, there may still be hope. The 4th Citizenship Amendment Act, effective August 20, 2021, provides another path. Victims and their descendants who were disadvantaged under the law of naturalization and citizenship can also apply for German citizenship.

This includes those who lost their German citizenship through circumstances such as acquiring a foreign nationality or marrying a foreigner after fleeing persecution. Are you or someone you know in this position? The new law could provide a way to reclaim citizenship that had never been acquired or lost due to these tragic circumstances.

Next Steps: Reclaim Your Heritage

Is it time to reclaim what was unjustly taken from you or your ancestors? If you think you may be entitled to German citizenship through renaturalization, we at BridgehouseLaw are here to help. Let's explore your options together and take the next steps toward restoring your family's rightful citizenship.

Jana Collins, Rechtsassessor, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC