I think I found the answer in an older post, but just to be clear... I am applying for myself and 6 others. I plan to send all applications and documents together. In this scenario, do I need 7 certified copies of docs like my grandfather's birth certificate or would one copy for the entire packet be ok?
Has anyone submitted their StAG 15 application directly to the BVA without going through their consulate? Mine is about 6 hours away. I will go there if that is the best/safest route, but I also would prefer to save the time and money if possible. I will be submitting packets for 6 of my family members as well. Has anyone tried this on their own?
Thanks!
I recently started digging into the German side of my family and believe I am eligible for citizenship under Article 116 (maybe Section 15?). Was hoping others may have some insight, maybe even a similar background, that can help me determine how realistic my case is.
My grandfather came to the US in 1938 at age 16. He was naturalized before my father was born, so I know that I am not eligible by descendency.
After some research, I discovered that his mother (my great-grandmother) was Jewish. I have her birth certificate and a couple other documents confirming and notating that Sara was added to her name following the Nazi decree. The documents also note that she was declared dead in 1956, official date of death December 31, 1945 which my understanding is the default date used for those unaccounted for following the war.
As of now I have no further documentation of what specifically happened during or after the war to either her or my great-grandfather who was catholic. I am currently trying waiting to get documentation from Berlin regarding her 1956 death record case to see if that has any additional details. I also found her in Arolsen, it seems like someone may have been looking for her in 1947, and I am waiting back on that documentation as well.
I am wondering what everyone thinks. If I don't find any additional info about what happened to her, is my case strong enough as is? She was legally designated as Jewish and went missing during the war which I can only assume means she either died or fled. I also have all the documents to prove direct descent.
I plan to apply for me and my dad/siblings, but I don't want to waste the rest of my family's time if there isn't really a case. Any insight?