In this episode, I’m joined by Matthew and Clare, a couple based in Denver, Colorado who are pursuing German Citizenship through descent via the stAG 5 path as part of their plan to move abroad!

Matthew traced his eligibility back to his grandmother, who left Bavaria as a child in the 1920s. After nearly a year of research and document gathering, he just recently submitted his StAG 5 application and is now navigating the dreaded waiting period. Clare, who grew up as an army child and has long been drawn to life abroad, is preparing alongside him as they explore their next steps towards moving to Europe early next year!

In this conversation, we cover:

• The German citizenship through descent (StAG 5) application process
• Common challenges, including document rejections and proving lineage
• Why Matthew chose to apply without a lawyer
• Lessons learned and practical advice for others starting the process
• Their plan to move abroad while waiting for citizenship approval

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Matthew and Claire

03:07 How He Discovered He Was Eligible

10:27 Document Collecting and Challenges

22:40: Connecting with Ancestry and Family Heritage

30:10: Full Circle Moment 

38:37: Their Strategy to move to Spain 

46:52: Greatest Challenges and Advice to those embarking on this journey

51:29: Clare’s perspective on the application process

55:59 Final Advice

If you want to connect with Matthew or ask any questions, you can reach him on Blue Sky!

https://bsky.app/profile/youtalkintoschmie.bsky.social

Follow along for more about my own personal journey with citizenship through descent and moving abroad, and gain more tips, stories, and guidance:
📸 Instagram: @courtneygoesabroad
🎥 YouTube: Courtney Goes Abroad
🌍 Website: courtneygoesabroad.com

👩🏼‍💻 Schedule a discovery call with me to learn more about how we can work together on your citizenship through descent application: https://calendly.com/courtneygoesabroad/discovery-call