Hello All,

I just need a small information regarding the application process for citizenship. I came to Germany as a student in 2005. I did my master in three years and then i started my Phd, which i am currently doing. In June 2012, it will be complete 7 years. My question is can i apply for citizenship after 7/8 years.

The basic hinge here is: I am doing my Phd on scholorship from the state of NRW. That means i am living here for the last 7 years as student, and i haven't paid any Rente/Tax etc. The only time i paid renteversichrung is during my internships, odd jobs, HiWi etc and that is around 18 months.

So can i apply for Citizenship if i completed integration kurs and Einbürgung test? Or what is the best possible way for me to proceed. Hope to hear some helpul advice.

Regards!
Zia

When do you plan to finish your phd? Without a proper job the application will most probably be rejected. But you can still prepare yourself by finishing those certificates and apply once you start a job

Thanks for the answer. Hopefully if everything goes as planned i will be finished till sept 2012. i am also hoping that i will get Job by that time. Lets say if i have job (permanant/contract) can i apply. Will my time as student will be considered fully?

@ziarehman

Here is my story........Pakistani living in DE since 10.2004

Masters: 10.2004 to 09.2006 (AE §16)
PhD: 09.2006 to 11.2010 (had 3/4 position, but AE §16)
Postdoc: 11.2010 to 03.2011 (AE § 18)
Permanent Position: April 2011 onwards (66K but no NE or BE, still AE § 18)

Citizenship application in Hessen: Aug. 2011 (wrt § 10...done by my friendly Beamter although i thought it should be wrt § 8)
Documents submitted:
-Einbürgerungstest (Full score)
-Masters and PhD certificates (both with Summa cum laude)
-Beamter told that I dont need ZD-B1 or Integration Kurs.
-Last three salary slips.
-Birth Certificate + German Translation
-Fees: 255 €uros
Einbürgerungszusicherung: Sep. 2011
Verlusst der Pakistanisch Staatsangehörigkeit: Dez. 2011
Einbürgerungsurkunde: Dez. 2011 (immediately after handing in the renunciation Certificate)

So in my opinion if you have a permanent Job, your chances are good.

Raj++