Surge in Citizenship Inquiries Following Germany's New Laws

Following the implementation of Germany's new citizenship laws, which allow internationals to obtain citizenship more quickly and without renouncing their previous nationality, there has been a notable increase in information requests. This is expected to lead to a rise in citizenship applications.

Germany is a top choice for internationals seeking citizenship. Last year, even before the new law was enacted, the country saw the highest number of granted citizenships since 2000, with approximately 200,100, according to data from the Federal Statistical Office, as reported by Schengen.News.

A report from the Süddeutsche Zeitung Berchtesgadener highlights that in the Land district office in Bad Reichenhall, all consultation appointments for prospective citizens are fully booked for the next eight months, with no assurance of prompt application processing.

A survey from SZ indicates a similar situation in other Bavarian offices. A city spokesperson revealed that Bamberg has seen a surge in information requests since the weekend, leading to a significant increase in inquiries.

In the Lower Franconian district of Miltenberg, there has been a marked increase in phone inquiries, reaching up to 74 calls per hour regarding naturalization applications.

Germany has expedited the citizenship acquisition process for foreigners. Last month, German authorities announced that internationals living in Germany could become citizens within a shorter timeframe. Under the new law, internationals are not required to give up their previous nationality.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized that all internationals living in Germany who share the country's values and meet the necessary conditions can obtain citizenship more quickly. However, Faeser made it clear that there will be no tolerance for antisemitic, racist, or similar 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." - Nancy Faeser, Minister of Interior of Germany

The new citizenship law also includes a faster path to citizenship for children born in Germany to foreign parents, an expanded German citizenship test, and recognition for the "guest worker" generation.

By fLEXI tEAM