Naturalisation in Aachen – what should I do next?
Hi everyone,
I would really appreciate some advice regarding my naturalisation application in Aachen / StädteRegion Aachen.
I submitted my naturalisation application in April 25. Since then, I have not received any final decision or clear update.
Here is my situation in general terms:
- I submitted my naturalisation application in April 25.
- Around three months later, I asked about some additional documents and the processing status.
- The authority replied that there were significant backlogs and that applications were being processed slowly.
- They also asked me to avoid further status inquiries.
- In October 2025, I submitted a copy of my Niederlassungserlaubnis
- In January 2026, they requested updated proof of salary slips.
- Later in January 2026, I submitted my last three salary slips.
- In March 2026, I followed up and asked whether all documents had been received and whether there was any update. I only received a general confirmation that my email had been received.
- In April 2026, I sent additional updated salary slips for the previous months, plus an employer confirmation showing that my employment was still unchanged at that time.
My application has now been pending for more than a year. I understand that Aachen has a backlog, but I am getting very frustrated because I have submitted everything they asked for, and I do not know whether my case is actively being processed or just waiting.
One additional concern is that my employment situation may change soon due to Financial reasons, although I still have my job and my company hasnt provided my any indications about this.
My questions are:
- What would be the best next step in this situation?
- Should I simply wait longer, or should I send a polite written request asking for a clear update?
- Would it make sense to contact a lawyer already, even before taking any legal step?
- Could a formal reminder create any negative consequences for my application?
- Has anyone here applied in Aachen recently? How long did it take after submitting salary slips until you received the final decision or certificate?
I want to stay polite and professional. I am not trying to be aggressive, but I also feel that after such a long time I should at least receive a clear update or know whether anything is missing.
Any advice or experience would be very helpful.
Thank you!