Background to the new law
The ideas for the new naturalization law were already in the federal government in 2023. Last year, the planned law was discussed by the governing parties. The vote on the new naturalization law took place in the Bundestag on 19 January 2024. The law was passed with 382 votes in favor.
At the end of March 2024, the law was then published in detail by the federal government in the Federal Law Gazette and the federal government announced the date on which the new law would come into force.
The most important changes in the new Naturalization Act
The Act on the Modernization of Citizenship Law (StaRModG) offers many advantages and opportunities for future citizens. At the beginning of our guide, you will get an insight into the most important changes such as Naturalization after 5 years and the introduction of dual citizenship.
Naturalization after 5 years of legal residence
One of the most significant changes to citizenship law is the reduction of the required period of residence from eight to five years. This means that, following the amendment to Section 10 StAG, you now have the opportunity to acquire German citizenship after just five years of legal residence in Germany. This change will make it easier for you to Naturalization and speed up the process.
- Shortening the length of stay from eight years to five years
- Faster integration into German society
Naturalization after 3 years with special integration achievements
In addition to the general shortening of the duration of residence, the new law also offers the option of Naturalization after three years from June 27, 2024, provided you can prove special integration achievements.
Proof of a C1 language certificate is mandatory for Naturalization after 3 years. You must also demonstrate exceptional integration achievements. The following achievements are considered exceptional integration achievements:
- Voluntary work (volunteer fire department, social work)
- Special academic or vocationally qualifying achievements
- Special benefits at work with proof from your employer
Permission for dual citizenship
Another important change in the new Naturalization Act is the permission of dual citizenship when acquiring German citizenship. Previously, many applicants had to give up their previous citizenship in accordance with Section 10 (4) of the Citizenship Act in order to obtain German citizenship. As of today, this is no longer necessary.
The exceptions according to § 12 StAG are also no longer necessary for you. If your home country recognizes multiple nationality, you can become a dual citizen with your Naturalization in Germany.
The changes to dual citizenship:
- No need to give up previous nationality
- Maintaining ties to the country of origin
Relief for the guest worker generation
The new naturalization law also provides for special regulations for the guest worker generation who have lived in Germany for decades and came to the FRG or the former GDR as guest workers.
For these people, the language requirements and the naturalization test have been made easier. It is now sufficient to be able to communicate in German in everyday life instead of having to present a formal language certificate. Proof of simple language skills at A1 level is sufficient.
Relief for people of the guest worker generation:
- Oral language skills are sufficient
- No naturalization test necessary for guest workers
German citizenship for children
Under the new law, you can also apply for German citizenship for your children. The following requirements must be met for this:
- At least one parent must have lived legally in Germany for 5 years
- The parent must have a Settlement permit
We have created a graphic of all the changes for you here:
Practical steps for applying with the new Naturalization Act
In order to benefit from the new regulations of the Naturalization Act, it is important to submit the application correctly and completely. Here you will find detailed instructions on how to prepare and submit your naturalization application as well as information on the next steps after submitting your application.
Preparation of the documents
Before submitting your application for German citizenship, you should ensure that you have compiled all the necessary documents. Being fully prepared can speed up the process considerably and reduce waiting times.
- Passport or ID card: Valid proof of identity
- Birth certificate: original or certified copy
- Proof of legal residence: residence permit, registration certificate
- Proof of language skills: Certificate of sufficient German language skills (e.g. B1, C1)
- Proof of integration achievements: Civic engagement, professional achievements
- Proof of signature of the declaration of loyalty: Signature on the declaration and the information sheet with the commitment to the free democratic basic order in the Federal Republic of Germany.
- Proof of income: Employment contract, payslips, tax assessment notices
- No criminal record: Certificate of good conduct
Document | Description |
|---|---|
Identity card/passport | Valid proof of identity |
Birth certificate | Original or certified copy |
Proof of residence | Proof of your residence permit |
Language certificate | Certificate of sufficient knowledge of German |
Proof of integration | Naturalization test, civic engagement, professional successes |
Proof of income | Proof of livelihood through payslips and tax assessments |
Certificate of good conduct | Proof of no previous convictions |
Application to the naturalization authority
Once you have compiled all the necessary documents, the actual application follows. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process successfully.
- Making an appointment: Make an appointment with your local naturalization office.
- Fill in the application form: Fill out the naturalization application form completely and correctly.
- Submit documents: Submit the completed form together with all required documents.
- Pay fees: Pay the fees incurred for processing your application.
- Confirmation of receipt: Ask for confirmation that your application and documents have been received.
Notes on avoiding waiting times:
- Submit all documents in full and in the required form.
- Prepare yourself well for the interview with the authorities by clarifying all questions and possible ambiguities in advance.
- Take the opportunity to prepare the application online if this is offered by your authority.
After the application: What comes next?
Once you have submitted your application, the processing phase begins. It is important to prepare for possible queries and the next steps.
- Processing time: The naturalization authority has a legal requirement of 12 weeks to process your naturalization application. However, due to the large number of applications, there may be longer waiting times. Stay patient and consult your authority regularly.
- Possible queries: The authority may request additional information or documents. Make sure that you respond quickly and answer all requests in full.
- Lawsuit for failure of actIf there is no response from the naturalization authority twelve weeks after submitting your application, you have the option of filing an Lawsuit for failure of act appeal to the administrative court. This speeds up the process and ensures that your application is processed promptly.
- Naturalization ceremony and receipt of your German passport: Once your application has been successfully processed, you will be invited to a naturalization ceremony. Here you will receive your naturalization certificate and can then apply for your German passport.
Advantages of the reform of the Naturalization Act
The reform of the Naturalization Act brings with it numerous positive changes. It not only promotes your integration, but also contributes to social diversity and stability.
Faster Naturalization and simpler procedures
Shorter stay times:
- By reducing the required period of residence from eight to five years, you can obtain German citizenship more quickly.
- This supports your integration and enables you to participate more actively in social and political life.
Impact on the number of naturalizations:
- The shortened residence periods are expected to lead to an increase in naturalizations.
- A higher number of naturalizations strengthens the demographic development and helps to cover the demand for skilled workers.
Flexibility with the new naturalization law
The reform also brings more flexibility through the introduction of dual citizenship, which is particularly important for the guest worker generation.
Facilitation through dual citizenship:
- The option of retaining your original citizenship significantly reduces the inhibition threshold for Naturalization .
- This promotes your attachment to both your country of origin and to Germany.
Importance of facilitation for the guest worker generation:
- With the reform, the guest worker generation no longer has to provide proof of language proficiency at B1 level; an A1 certificate is sufficient. The elimination of the naturalization test will also make it easier to provide proof of integration.
Further advantages
Strengthening cohesion:
- Easier access to citizenship can strengthen social cohesion by enabling more people to actively participate in society and take on responsibility.
Economic advantages:
- A higher naturalization rate can lead to better integration into the labor market, as naturalized citizens often have better employment opportunities and higher wages.
- This contributes to economic stability and growth
Here is a table showing the differences between the old and new regulations:
Aspect | Old regulation | New regulation |
|---|---|---|
Length of stay | 8 years (with special integration services 6 years) | 5 years (3 years with special integration services) |
Dual citizenship | Only permitted in exceptional cases | Generally permitted |
Naturalization procedure | Complex and time-consuming | Simplified procedures |
Disadvantages of the new naturalization law
Despite the many advantages, the reform of the Naturalization Act also brings with it some challenges. You should take these into account in order to be well prepared.
More applications for Naturalization
The new regulations are expected to lead to an increase in naturalization applications. This has several effects:
Increased number of applications:
- The simplified conditions and the shortened duration of stay make Naturalization more attractive, which will lead to a significant increase in the number of applications.
- This could overload the responsible authorities, which in turn can delay processing.
Capacity problems:
- The authorities may need to make additional resources available in order to process the increased number of applications efficiently.
Longer waiting times
As the number of applications increases, waiting times are also likely to become longer. This can have several consequences for you:
Delays in the editing process:
- The processing time for your naturalization application could be longer, as the authorities need more time to deal with the increased number of applications.
- This can be frustrating, especially if you are dependent on German citizenship to obtain certain rights and privileges.
Planning uncertainties:
- Longer waiting times can affect your personal and professional plans, especially if you plan to enter certain fields that require German citizenship.
More actions for failure to act
The longer waiting times and the possible overloading of the authorities could lead to an increase in complaints of inactivity. This may have several implications for you:
Legal steps:
- If the authorities do not process your application within a reasonable period of time, you have the right to submit an Lawsuit for failure of act .
- This process is very complicated for you to clarify on your own. It makes sense to seek advice from a lawyer.
Conclusion on the launch of the new naturalization law
Summary of the core topic
The new Naturalization Act is a significant reform that brings many positive changes and simplifications for you as an applicant.
Advantages and simplifications:
- The new law promotes your integration and enables you to Naturalization more quickly.
- It facilitates dual citizenship, which is particularly important for those who do not want to give up their cultural and family ties.
Most important changes:
- Shorter periods of residence: You can already apply for Naturalization if you have been living legally in Germany for five years. Under the old law, this was only possible after eight years.
- Permission for dual citizenship: You may retain your original citizenship.
- With special integration achievements, you can be naturalized after just three years instead of the previous six years.
- Special regulations for guest workers: The reform makes it easier for the guest worker generation Naturalization.
Outlook on the new Naturalization Act
The reform promises to pave the way to German citizenship for many people and at the same time promote social diversity.
Expected increase in naturalizations:
- The new regulations are expected to lead to a significant increase in naturalizations. This contributes to the demographic development and to securing the demand for skilled workers.
- You should take advantage of the new opportunities to submit your application early and benefit from the advantages.
Recommendations for applicants:
- Prepare yourself well and inform yourself comprehensively about the new regulations.
- Submit your application as early as possible to avoid long waiting times.
- Use the advisory services on offer to make the process efficient.
The introduction of the new Naturalization Act is an important step towards a more inclusive society. It opens up new opportunities and possibilities for you to be fully integrated into German society. Take advantage of these opportunities and actively contribute to shaping your future!
Naturalization with the new naturalization law?
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about the entry into force of the new Naturalization Act
Who is allowed to have dual citizenship in Germany?
Anyone who now applies for Naturalization in Germany can have dual citizenship. The current Naturalization Actwhich came into force on June 27, 2024, allows multiple citizenships. It is important that you meet the requirements for Naturalization in Germany. Your home country should also allow dual citizenship.
How do I apply for dual citizenship in Germany?
To apply for dual citizenship, you must submit an submit an application to the relevant naturalization authority and submit all the necessary documents to Naturalization in accordance with § 10 StAG must be submitted. It may also be helpful to seek the assistance of a lawyer.
What are the advantages of dual citizenship?
By belonging to several countries you may live and work in these countrieshave unrestricted access to education and healthcare as well as the opportunity to acquire property. You benefit from visa facilitation, extended freedom to travel and the opportunity to exercise your political rights.
Which countries allow dual citizenship?
Countries like Germany, the USA, Canada, Italy, the Philippines and Turkey allow dual citizenship. In Germany, citizens of all countries can in principle have dual citizenship as long as the laws of their home country allow it.
Which countries are not eligible for dual citizenship in Germany?
As a rule, dual citizenship is not possible with countries that do not recognize dual citizenship themselves or have strict regulations against it. Examples of this are: China, Japan, Austria, the Netherlands, Senegal.
What disadvantages or obligations are associated with dual citizenship?
Due to your multiple citizenship, you are generally obliged to pay taxes and perform military service in to pay taxes and perform military service in these countries. Stricter controls in these countries are also possible.
