How to Apply For Dual Citizenship in Germany: A Step-by-Step Guide & My Experience

 

This video is about applying for dual citizenship in Germany.

The speaker is excited about the new dual citizenship rule launched on June 27, 2024, which allows immigrants to apply for dual citizenship. Previously, Germany did not allow dual citizenship, but now the speaker, who is Canadian, can apply for German citizenship without giving up their Canadian passport.

The video outlines the requirements for dual citizenship, including living in Germany for a minimum of five years, having a permanent residency card, proving financial stability, and passing a B1 German language test and an immigration test.

The application process can be done online in some cities, but in others, it must be done via email or post. The speaker chose to apply via post and included various documents in their application package, such as their passport, marriage certificate, birth certificate , and proof of employment or self-employment.

After submitting the application, the speaker received confirmation and was asked to provide additional documents. The process can take several weeks, and if all requirements are met, the applicant will be invited to the immigration office to receive their naturalization certificate.

The video also shows an example of a citizenship ceremony that some applicants may be invited to, where they will meet the mayor and receive their certificate.

The speaker concludes by expressing their excitement about getting their dual citizenship and the benefits it will bring, such as the ability to vote and travel to certain countries.

Eligibility requirements for 189 and 190 Australian visas

 Eligibility and Visa Types:  The blog post discusses Australian immigration, specifically focusing on the eligibility requirements for various visas. Individuals  who have resided in Australia for five years can apply for an Australian visa after four years of residency. The application process considers several factors to determine eligibility. There are various visa types, such as 189, 190, and 186 visas, but primarily on the 189 and 190 visas, detailing their key differences. The 189 visa is emphasized as a prominent visa category.

1. Subclass 189 vs 190 Visa: Key Differences Explained

 

 Points Calculation for the 189 Visa:  The point calculation involves various human factors, including age, English language proficiency, education, and professional experience.

 

 Age Points:  The age bracket of 25 to 32 years old is highlighted as receiving the maximum points (30), crucial for reaching the qualifying score of 65 points.

 

4th Language Proficiency Points:   English language proficiency is assessed through IELTS or PTE Academic exams. Achieving a band score of 8 in IELTS (or equivalent in PTE) grants the maximum 20 points. In my opinion, this score is attainable with practice.

 

Regional Language Proficiency Points:  demonstrating proficiency in a regional language (eg, French, Chinese, Urdu, Hindi) through a specific exam can earn an applicant an additional 5 points.

 

Professional Experience Points:  Applicants with professional experience, especially in fields like technology or finance, can earn 5 points if they have a year of relevant experience.

 

Regional Area Points:  Studying in regional areas of Australia can earn applicants an additional 5 points. This is promoted as a benefit of studying in regional areas due to the educational consistency across the country.

 

Education Points:  Holding a recognized bachelor's degree from an Australian-authorized institution grants 15 points, and completing a master's degree within two years in Australia adds another 5 points, totaling 20 points for education.

 

Work Experience Points:  Points are awarded for previous work experience, both within and outside Australia. The number of points varies depending on the duration of experience (eg, less than 3 years, 3-4 years, more than 4 years). checking the Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date point allocation.   Marital Status Points:  Single applicants receive 10 points, while married applicants can gain points based on their spouse's English proficiency (5 points for qualifying exam) and education (5 points for a bachelor's degree or higher), for a total potential of 10 points. 

Australian Immigration Point System Overview

 Australian Immigration Point System Overview: Your goal should be to achieve 65 points to become eligible for Australian immigration. One should understand how points are calculated to determine eligibility for immigration.  

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 Point Calculation Breakdown: the various factors contributing to the point calculation. These include age (with higher points awarded to those between 25 and 32, and decreasing points outside this range), qualifications (diplomas, bachelor's degrees, and PhDs receive progressively more points), work experience (with points increasing based on years of experience) , and English language proficiency. Specific point values ​​are given for different age brackets, educational qualifications,  and years of work experience. 3. Additional Point Considerations:  Beyond age, education,  and work experience, other factors influencing point totals are mentioned, such as skills in demand, and specific professional qualifications. Applicants should provide evidence for these factors, such as bank statements to verify financial stability.

 English Language Proficiency and Skill Assessment: I stress the significance of English language proficiency . Please note  that Australia accepts various English language tests. It mentions specific point allocations for different levels of English language competency and suggests that using specific tests, such as the PTE, might be easier for some applicants. 

 Further Clarifications and Additional Information: I added additional aspects to  the point system. It explains how points are awarded for certain qualifications and skills, including additional points for having a spouse or partner who also meets certain criteria. The importance of properly documenting all qualifications and skills is mentioned to maximize the point total. The text also clarifies that some tests might be unnecessary for candidates with sufficient education and experience. Finally, it briefly mentions the option of seeking professional assistance for the immigration process.

The Average German Funeral: Customs and Rituals

 

The Setting and Initial Details: The video describes the funeral of Gertrud. She was Michael Müller's grandmother. Gertrud was an average German woman who died at 82.3 years old, the average age for German women, from cardiovascular failure.  The narrator provides details on the cultural practices surrounding death and burial in Germany. The narrator notes that funerals in Germany are highly regulated. They must be conducted by licensed funeral directors. Funerals generally take place in cemeteries and are either religious or secular. The attire is traditionally black, as exemplified by Michael's friend Tommy.

The Cremation and Trauerfeier: Over 75% of German funerals are cremations, largely due to cost-effectiveness compared to traditional burials. The funeral begins with the *Trauerfeier*. During this ceremony, a speaker welcomes mourners. Eulogies are given to share memories of the deceased. In religious settings, priests deliver speeches; in secular ones, a hired speaker may be employed. Music often plays a part, although in this case, the planned organist was unavailable.

The Burial and Legal Considerations: The funeral director leads the procession to the burial plot. German law largely mandates burials in state-owned cemeteries. However, alternative options like sea or forest burials are gaining popularity. Forest burial is the preferred choice if given a free selection. A final blessing is offered before the urn is lowered. Mourners leave offerings of sand or roses. A significant legal difference highlighted is the requirement in almost all German states for cremated ashes to remain in the funeral home's possession. This contrasts with practices in other countries.

The Leichenschmaus: Following the burial, the family attends the *Leichenschmaus*. It is a post-funeral gathering comparable to a wake. The term literally translates to "corpse snack."

US Passport Renewal Process | How to Renew Your US Passport by Mail

 

Passport Renewal Eligibility and Requirements: US passport renewal by mail is simpler than a first-time application. It emphasizes the need for a passport valid for at least six months before travel, suggesting renewal eight months prior to expiration. Renewing by mail requires an undamaged passport issued when the applicant was 16 or older, within the last 15 years, and in their current name (or with legal proof of name change). Failure to meet these criteria necessitates in-person application. Those living outside the US must renew at a US embassy or consulate.

 

Form DS-82 Completion: The process begins with completing Form DS-82, accessible on the Department of State website (travel.state.gov). The form itself is described as straightforward, requiring basic personal information, passport details, and information about any name changes. The form specifies choices for passport book and card, regular or large book size, and indicates where to mail the application based on the applicant's location and whether they are expediting the process.

 

Supporting Documents and Payment: Along with the completed DS-82 form, the applicant must include their current passport (which will be returned), a passport photo (no glasses), and if applicable, a certified copy of legal name change documentation (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). These documents are also mailed to the designated address.

 

Fees and Processing Times: Standard processing takes six to eight weeks, with expedited processing at two to three weeks.  The passport book costs $110, with an additional $60 for expedited service. A passport card adds $30. You can  use the Department of State's fee calculator to determine the exact costs, accounting for expedited service and optional add-ons. Payment is made by check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State, with the applicant's name and date of birth included on the check or money order.

 

 Mailing and Post-Renewal Steps: The application must be mailed via USPS trackable service, with "EXPEDITE" clearly written on the envelope if expedited service is chosen. Don’t use other delivery services.  The old passport will be returned separately, and the new passport number will differ, requiring updates to accounts linked to the old number (e.g., Global Entry).

How Does Schufa Calculate My Credit Score?

 Schufa calculates your credit score based on a variety of factors that reflect your financial behavior and history. The scoring system is designed to assess the likelihood of you meeting your financial obligations. Here are the key components involved in the calculation:

• Payment History : This is one of the most significant factors. It includes records of whether you have paid your bills, loans, and credit card debts on time. Late payments, defaults, or any negative entries can significantly lower your score
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• Credit Utilization : The amount of credit you are using compared to your total available credit is assessed. High utilization rates can indicate higher risk, negatively impacting your score
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• Length of Credit History : A longer credit history can be beneficial as it provides more data about your financial behavior. Newer accounts may lower your average account age, which can affect your score
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• Types of Credit Accounts : Having a mix of different types of credit accounts (such as installment loans, credit cards, and mortgages) can positively influence your score. This diversity shows that you can manage various forms of credit responsibly
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• Recent Credit Inquiries : When you apply for new credit, lenders will perform a hard inquiry on your credit report. Multiple inquiries in a short period can signal financial distress and may lower your score
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• Public Records : Any legal judgments, bankruptcies, or debt collections against you are included in this section and can have a severe negative impact on your score
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Schufa utilizes an algorithm to calculate scores based on these factors, but the specifics of the algorithm are proprietary and not publicly disclosed. This means that while consumers can understand the general principles behind scoring, the exact calculations remain a trade secret

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Score Variants

Schufa provides different types of scores:

• Basic Score : This is recalculated every three months and expressed as a percentage from 0 to 100, indicating the likelihood of reliable repayment.
• Industry Scores : These scores are tailored for specific sectors (eg, banking or telecommunications) and reflect the probability of meeting financial obligations within those industries
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Understanding these factors can help individuals take actionable steps to improve their Schufa score over time.