European Nations Tighten Character Requirements Amid Demand for Foreign Labor

Recent studies have consistently shown that European nations face an urgent need for foreign labor to support their economies. In response, EU countries have gradually loosened regulations for work permits and, in some cases, have even softened citizenship requirements. Germany, for example, has updated its stance on dual citizenship, a shift previously unheard of, as the government moves toward modernizing its immigration policy.

Despite these reforms, a key requirement remains — applicants must demonstrate "good character," a standard that many countries plan to enforce even more strictly. Most European nations exclude applicants with criminal records, particularly for offenses linked to terrorism and antisemitism, as detailed below.

Austria

Austria has strict prerequisites for citizenship, including a continuous residency of ten years, sufficient income, language skills, and a “positive attitude” toward the country. Notably, the applicant must be free of any criminal record, a rule underscoring Austria's zero tolerance for those with prior convictions. As part of their application, individuals must provide a current criminal record certificate, or Strafregisterbescheinigung, to verify their eligibility for Austrian citizenship. According to the Austrian Interior Ministry, job applicants in certain fields must also supply a recent criminal record certificate, often issued within the last three months, as part of their application.

Germany

Germany also maintains stringent rules regarding criminal backgrounds for citizenship applicants. All applicants must be free from criminal records or pending investigations, with applications only proceeding once any legal matters are resolved. However, Germany does make exceptions for minor offenses, including:

- Convictions under the Youth Courts Act (Jugendgerichtsgesetz),

- Fines up to 90 daily rates,

- Suspended sentences of up to three months, assuming the sentence is fully served.

But, offenses motivated by racism or antisemitism are non-negotiable grounds for rejection, as clarified by Germany’s Migration Ministry: “This does not apply if it was ruled at the time of conviction that you committed your offence for racist or antisemitic reasons or other motives evidencing contempt for humanity. In this case, naturalisation is not possible.”

Denmark

In Denmark, a criminal charge or conviction can hinder one’s path to citizenship, with requirements that pending charges be resolved before applying. Certain offenses, such as unconditional or suspended prison terms, disqualify applicants from naturalization. Those convicted of terrorism, gang involvement, violence against children, or sexual offenses are likewise permanently barred from Danish citizenship.

Sweden

Sweden's process differs slightly, relying on multiple data sources to assess applicant histories. The Swedish Enforcement Authority provides records of unpaid debts, while police records cover any suspected or committed crimes, with security screenings carried out by the Swedish Security Services. Those with criminal records can eventually qualify for citizenship after designated waiting periods, depending on the severity of their crimes. For instance:

- Fines between 30 and 100 daily rates require a wait of one to three years.

- Custodial sentences between one month and eight months necessitate a wait of four to six years.

- Sentences from one to six years require a waiting period of seven to ten years.

Repeat offenders may face even longer qualification periods, while those on probation must wait four years post-probation to apply.

Netherlands

In the Netherlands, citizenship eligibility requires a clear record for five years prior to application. This condition applies to any offenses penalized by a criminal court, public persecutor, or prosecutor's office. As of early 2023, four political parties proposed an increase to this requirement, suggesting a ten-year minimum residency before naturalization to further tighten citizenship criteria.

European countries are balancing their need for foreign labor with strict criteria aimed at maintaining security and integrity in the naturalization process.

By fLEXI tEAM