Streamlined Path to German Citizenship Now Available for Foreigners

Foreigners residing in Germany can now attain German citizenship more swiftly and without relinquishing their previous nationality, thanks to a new citizenship law that takes effect after midnight on June 27, 2024. This modernized legislation is expected to significantly boost the number of naturalizations in 2024 by making more people eligible for German citizenship.

Nancy Faeser, Germany’s Minister of Interior, emphasized that all foreigners in Germany who embrace shared values and meet the necessary criteria can now obtain citizenship more quickly. She also highlighted that the new law will not tolerate anti-Semitic, racist, or other malicious 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 part of their identity by giving up their old nationality. But we have also made it just as clear: anyone who does not share our values cannot get a German passport," Faeser stated.

The new citizenship law introduces ten key changes, each with significant implications. Among the most notable changes are:

Possibility to Hold Multiple Nationalities

Foreign nationals applying for German citizenship can now retain their previous nationality, a provision that allows for multiple citizenships.

Accelerated Procedure

The naturalization process has been expedited, enabling foreigners to apply for citizenship after five years of legal residence in Germany, down from the previous requirement of eight years. Foreigners married to German citizens can apply after four years. Those fully integrated into German society, demonstrating exceptional job performance, voluntary work, financial independence, and high proficiency in German, can apply after just three years.

Quicker Path to Citizenship for Children Born in Germany to Foreign Parents

Children born in Germany to foreign parents can now obtain German citizenship if one parent has legally resided in Germany for over five years, instead of the previous eight years, and holds an unlimited right of residence. These children can also retain their parents' citizenship.

Expanded German Citizenship Test

The naturalization test now includes additional questions covering topics such as anti-Semitism, Israel, and Jews in Germany.

Recognition for “Guest Worker” Generation

The new law recognizes the contributions of the "guest worker" generation, primarily Turkish nationals who moved to West Germany in the 1960s to work in industry. These individuals are no longer required to take the citizenship test but must demonstrate good German language skills. This change honors their "lifetime achievements" in Germany.

Several restrictions will apply to naturalization applicants under the new law. Applicants must have no criminal record, prove their ability to support themselves without government financial assistance, and asylum seekers who have remained in Germany due to a deportation ban are not eligible for citizenship.

Nancy Faeser reiterated the importance of shared values and efforts for those seeking German citizenship while maintaining a firm stance against behaviors contrary to these values.

By fLEXI tEAM