Germany's Dual Citizenship Law Approved in Bundesrat, Easing Citizenship Process for Foreigners

Germany's dual citizenship law, which enables applicants to hold dual citizenship with their original nationality, has been successfully passed through the Bundesrat, marking a significant development in the country's immigration and citizenship policies. This decision is expected to streamline the process of acquiring German citizenship for international residents living and working in the country.

Daniela Behrens, a member of the DP (Democratic Party), emphasized the need for regulated migration to strengthen Germany's economy. She underlined the importance of local administrative bodies in managing the influx of citizenship applications that the country is expected to receive. She stated, "If we look at the worker shortage, there is no doubt that in the future, Germany has to be a land of immigration. It is obvious that we need regulated migration in order to strengthen the economy."

The legislative process will now advance to the next stage, with the new citizenship law scheduled for its first reading on November 9 or 10. The reading phase will involve three main stages. A special committee will be formed for the first and second readings, responsible for organizing public hearings to discuss the law and make recommendations. The final vote on the law will occur at the end of the third reading.

If approved, the new citizenship law is set to take effect in April 2024. To obtain German citizenship, foreign nationals are currently required to live in the country for eight years, or seven years if they have completed an integration course successfully.

Recent announcements indicated that changes to the citizenship law are being prepared, which may allow foreigners to apply for citizenship after five years of residence instead of the current eight years.

In the past year, a total of 168,500 people were granted German citizenship, marking the most significant increase since 2022. Nationals from Syria accounted for the largest group of naturalized individuals, with 48,300 people obtaining German citizenship.

The Federal Office of Germany has noted that professional achievements, language proficiency, or civic commitments can contribute to obtaining German citizenship after six years of residency.

By fLEXI tEAM