The reform of the nationality law, which came into force on June 27, 2024, was the main reason for the sharp increase.
Syrians received the German passport most frequently in 2024
More than one in four people (83,150 or 28%) who received a German passport in 2024 came from Syria. This development is likely to be directly attributable to the refugee migration of 2015 and 2016. On average, Syrian migrants had been in Germany for 7.4 years before applying for Naturalization - well below the average of 11.8 years.
The other frequently represented countries of origin among the naturalized citizens were:
- Turkey: 22,525 people (8 percent)
- Iraq: 13,545 people (5 percent)
- Russia: 12,980 people (4 percent)
- Afghanistan: 10,085 people (3 percent)
Particularly striking: the number of naturalized Russian citizens rose by 551% compared to the previous year - from just under 2,000 to almost 13,000 people. The number of naturalized Turkish citizens has also more than doubled compared to 2023 (+110%).
One possible reason: the new regulation on dual citizenship, which allows people to retain their previous citizenship in the event of Naturalization .
Reform facilitates access to German citizenship
The reform of nationality law, which came into force in June 2024, has made Naturalization easier for many people. The most important changes:
- Shorter minimum period of residence: instead of the previous eight years, Naturalization is possible after only five years of residence.
- Dual nationality: It is now possible to retain your previous nationality.
- Faster Naturalization in the case of special integration achievements: Those who are particularly well integrated - for example through academic or professional achievements - can be naturalized after just three years. Please note: This regulation (known as Naturalization naturalization) is to be abolished in the near future.
According to the Federal Statistical Office, around seven percent of naturalizations in 2024 were carried out after a shortened residence period of three years.
Who is naturalized - and how long does it take?
The average length of stay until Naturalization was 11.8 years in 2024. However, there are major differences depending on the country of origin.
- Syrian nationals: 7.4 years
- Iraqi nationals: 8.7 years
- Afghan nationals: 8.9 years
- Russian nationals: 14.5 years
- Turkish nationals: 23.1 years
Germany in a European comparison
In a European comparison, Germany ranks third in the number of naturalizations behind Spain (240,000) and Italy (214,000) - and just ahead of the United Kingdom with 202,000 naturalizations (figures for 2023). However, when looking at naturalizations relative to the population, smaller countries such as Sweden or Belgium carry more weight.
Requirements for Naturalization in Germany in 2025
The following basic requirements currently apply to Naturalization :
- Minimum stay in Germany of five years with a legal Residence permit
- Proof of sufficient German language skills (level B1)
- Passing the naturalization test (or alternative)
- Secured livelihood (no permanent social assistance or basic security)
- No serious criminal offenses
- Commitment to the free and democratic basic order
- National passport and other proof of identity and nationality
