Expert Info
on 10 Jan 2013
Hi. I am an American woman. I am married in Belgium. I am in a same-sex couple and my wife is French. We would like to move to Germany, but are concerned that our marriage will not be recognized in the region of Germany we would like to live (specifically Hamburg). If anyone could inform me as to how to proceed in regards to this, that would be greatly appreciated. Best, Megan
In 2001 the German Parliament passed the Life Partnership Act which legally recongized same-sex unions. Since then the number of rights afforded to same-sex couples has increased and now they largely enjoy the same rights as hetrosexual couples.
In certain regions of Germany there have been attempts to overturn laws relating to same-sex unions. However, none of these have been successful and the law has been upheld.
Non-Germans, like yourself, who are legally joined in a same sex marriage to a German citizen has the right to apply for German citizenship.
If you do have anymore questions do let me know.
Good luck with the move to Hamburg.