I am a South African living in England and on my way to becoming a UK citizen. I have to incur major fees just to be able to travel to Europe, since I need a schengen visa.

My grandfather was born in Germany and my dad and I were both born in South Africa. I heard I could apply for a German passport immediately. Does this mean I have to live in Germany for a while first? What are the requirements for applying for a German passport and citizenship? Do I need to obtain a copy of the birth certificates or what documents do I require?

Do you have any agents or contact names of companies that could help me with the application process?

Many thanks.

Arthur

My grandfather was born in Germany

Being born in Germany does not mean he is German citizen. In those days, people were not allowed to have dual citizenship, so they had to choose one, plus if one failed to establish residency in that country, his/her legal status may be revoked.


and my dad and I were both born in South Africa.

What is your father's nationality? You will able to obtain German citizenship only if one of your parents is German... or both hold German citizenship OR you were born in Germany.