Which documents do you need?
Instead of proof of salary: tax assessment notices (Steuerbescheide) for the last 3 years, a net income statement (Einnahmen-Überschuss-Rechnung, EÜR) or balance sheets, your business registration (Gewerbeanmeldung) or proof of freelancer status, and a current bank statement. The authority checks whether your income is lasting and sufficient.
What counts as sufficient income?
Your income must permanently cover your living costs without state support — for you and your family. As a rule of thumb: no receipt of benefits under SGB II (citizen's benefit, Bürgergeld) or SGB XII (social assistance, Sozialhilfe). Housing benefit (Wohngeld) on its own is, by law, not a ground for exclusion under § 10 Abs. 1 Nr. 3 StAG, but the authority may treat it as an indication. Seasonal fluctuations are tolerated as long as the annual average is right.
What if there were bad years?
Individual bad business years are not automatically disqualifying — the authority looks at the overall trend. If you have received state support in recent years, that can be problematic. If in doubt: getting advice from a lawyer is recommended.
Frequently asked questions
I'm a freelancer without a business registration — is that possible?
Yes. Freelancers (artists, IT professionals, journalists etc.) can prove their freelancer status through tax assessment notices (Steuerbescheide). A business registration (Gewerbeanmeldung) is not required.
Does receiving Bürgergeld count against me?
Yes — currently receiving citizen's benefit (Bürgergeld) is, as a rule, harmful to naturalisation. Exceptions: is it your own fault? Check the exception provisions in §10 Abs. 1 StAG.
How far back does the authority look?
As a rule, 3 years back. If there are doubts, possibly longer.