Germany's New Citizenship Law: Key Changes Simplified | IaM (Immigration and Migration)

Germany’s New Citizenship Law: Key Changes Simplified

Roughly 12 million people don't have German citizenship despite having lived in Germany for at least ten years. According to the federal government, Germany's naturalisation rate is only half the EU average.

Germany's updated citizenship laws, which took effect on June 27, 2024, are set to enable more people to become German citizens.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the changes:

Multiple Nationalities Allowed

Germany now permits dual or multiple citizenships as a standard practice, not just for EU and Swiss nationals or in special hardship cases.

Faster Naturalisation Process

Non-Germans can apply for citizenship after five years of lawful residence, down from eight years.

Exceptional achievements, such as proficiency in German, academic excellence, or civic engagement, can reduce this period to three years.

Easier Citizenship for Children

Children born in Germany to foreign parents will automatically receive German citizenship if at least one parent has been a legal resident for over five years and holds permanent residency.

The previous rule forcing children to choose between nationalities at age 18 has been abolished.

Recognition of ‘Guest Workers'

The “guest worker” generation, especially those who moved to West Germany from Turkey in the 1960s and similar workers in East Germany, can gain citizenship by proving oral language skills, without taking a naturalisation test.

With these reforms, the government aims to enhance integration and citizenship rates. In 2022, only 3.1% of long-term residents were naturalised, but applications have already surged with the new rules.

This comprehensive reform marks a significant step in making German citizenship more accessible and recognizing the diverse makeup of the country.

Germany Speeds Up Citizenship Process for Foreigners

Germany has announced that foreigners living in the country can now obtain citizenship more quickly.

Under the new law, applicants will no longer need to give up their previous nationality to become German citizens.

Nancy Faeser, Germany’s Interior Minister, emphasized that foreigners who share Germany's values and meet the necessary conditions can now gain citizenship faster. However, she also made it clear that there will be no tolerance for antisemitic, racist, or similar behaviors.

“Anyone who shares our values and makes an effort can now get a German passport more quickly and no longer has to give up their old nationality. But we have also made it clear: anyone who does not share our values cannot get a German passport.”
Germany’s Interior Minister, Nancy Faeser

Due to shorter naturalisation periods, a significant increase of applications is expected which will slow down government processing times for naturalisations.

Given these new changes, obtaining German citizenship could soon be a realistic option for many more people. If you are considering applying for naturalisation in Germany, it is recommended to seek legal advice before submitting your application.

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