5 Major Changes in Germany’s New Citizenship Law You Need to Know

Germany has ushered in a new era for foreigners seeking citizenship, with a law that promises faster naturalization and the possibility of holding multiple nationalities. This landmark legislation, effective from June 27, 2024, is poised to reshape the landscape of German citizenship, making it more inclusive and streamlined.

Key Changes Under the New Citizenship Law

Germany has introduced a groundbreaking citizenship law that offers a more inclusive and streamlined path to becoming a German citizen. Here are the five key changes you need to know:

1. Dual Citizenship Now Permitted

One of the most notable changes is the allowance for dual citizenship. Under the new law, foreign nationals applying for German citizenship no longer need to give up their previous nationality. This change preserves the cultural and national identity of new citizens while granting them full German citizenship.

2. Accelerated Naturalization Process

The new citizenship law significantly shortens the residency requirement for naturalization:

• General Applicants: Foreigners can apply for citizenship after five years of legal residence, down from the previous eight years.
• Married to German Citizens: The residency requirement is reduced to four years.
• Highly Integrated Individuals: Those who demonstrate high levels of integration, professional success, volunteer work, financial independence, and proficiency in German can qualify in just three years.

3. Pathway for Children Born in Germany

Children born in Germany to foreign parents can now obtain German citizenship if one parent has legally resided in Germany for over five years and holds an unlimited right of residence. This is a reduction from the previous requirement of eight years.

4. Enhanced Naturalization Test

The naturalization test has been expanded to ensure that new citizens are well-versed in key aspects of German society:

• New questions on antisemitism, Israel, and the history of Jews in Germany have been added.
• This change aims to ensure that new citizens share and respect the core values of German society.

5. Recognition for the ‘Guest Worker’ Generation

The new law acknowledges the contributions of the “guest worker” generation, particularly those from Turkey who migrated to West Germany in the 1960s:

• This group is now exempt from the citizenship test.
• They only need to demonstrate good German language skills.
• This provision honours their lifelong contributions to German industry and society.

Also Read: Germany’s New Citizenship Law: 10 Key Changes and Their Impact

Eligibility Criteria and Restrictions

Maintaining German Values

Minister of Interior Nancy Faeser emphasized that while the new law makes it easier for foreigners who share German values to obtain citizenship, it also sets clear boundaries. Individuals exhibiting antisemitic, racist, or other malicious behaviours will be ineligible for naturalization.

No Criminal Record Requirement

Applicants must prove they have no criminal record and can support themselves financially without government assistance. The law also excludes asylum seekers who cannot be deported due to prolonged residence in Germany from applying for citizenship.

Also Read: Germany Introduces Chancenkarte: A New Opportunity for Non-EU Nationals

Conclusion

Germany’s new citizenship law represents a progressive step towards a more inclusive and integrated society. By allowing dual nationality, accelerating the naturalization process, and recognizing the contributions of long-term residents, Germany is making it easier for foreigners to become citizens while ensuring that they uphold the values central to the German identity.