Germany has ushered in a new era of citizenship with a groundbreaking law that took effect on June 27, 2024.
This legislation marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to naturalization, offering a more accessible and streamlined path to German citizenship for foreign nationals. At the heart of this reform is the embrace of dual citizenship. The new law allows applicants to retain their original nationality when acquiring German citizenship, acknowledging the complex identities of Germany’s diverse population. This change enables new citizens to maintain ties with their countries of origin while fully participating in German society.
The residency requirements for naturalization have been substantially reduced with general applicants now requiring only five years of legal residence in Germany, down from the previous eight. For those married to German citizens, the requirement has been lowered to four years. In cases of exceptional integration demonstrated through professional achievements, volunteer work, financial independence, and German language proficiency, citizenship can be granted in as little as three years.
Children born to foreign parents in Germany now have an easier route to citizenship. If at least one parent has legally resided in Germany for over five years and holds permanent residency, the child automatically becomes a German citizen. The naturalization process now includes an enhanced citizenship test that covers topics such as antisemitism, Israel, and the history of Jews in Germany. This addition aims to ensure that new citizens understand and share core German values.
The law pays tribute to the “guest worker” generation, particularly those who migrated from Turkey to West Germany in the 1960s. These individuals are exempt from the citizenship test, needing only to demonstrate good German language skills. While the new law is more inclusive, it maintains clear boundaries and accountability with Minister of Interior Nancy Faeser emphasizing that applicants must have a clean criminal record and be financially self-sufficient. Those exhibiting antisemitic, racist, or malicious behaviour are disqualified from naturalization.
Additionally, asylum seekers with prolonged residence in Germany remain ineligible for citizenship under this law. This legislative change recognizes the value of each individual’s unique background and contribution to the nation. The new citizenship law represents a significant step towards a more inclusive and diverse Germany.
