Family reunification for persons granted subsidiary protection is to be suspended for two years . At the same time, Naturalization is to be suspended after three years (the so-called "turbo- Naturalization “) be abolished again .
Both measures are part of a comprehensive reorientation of migration and integration policy. They were already enshrined in the new government's coalition agreement .
Cabinet approves reform – These are the details
The reform proposal was penned by Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) and has now been approved by the cabinet. Dobrindt appeared before the press after the meeting and provided initial details on the planned legislative amendment:
- Turbo- Naturalization will be cancelled without replacement . Naturalization will in future only be possible after five years without exception – regardless of the integration services.
- Regular Naturalization after five years and the possibility of dual citizenship remain valid.
- The goal of "limiting migration" is once again anchored in residence law . Previously, this was merely referred to as "controlling" migration.
- Family reunification for persons entitled to subsidiary protection will be suspended for two years , as was the case between 2016 and 2018.
- Exceptions to the ban on family reunification will only be made in hardship cases. These will be reviewed individually, according to Dobrindt – for example, if medical care is not guaranteed in the country of origin.
- The reform of family reunification does not affect relatives of persons entitled to asylum and refugee status, nor holders of a Settlement permit . Family reunification remains possible for them.
When does the law officially come into force?
The legislative process officially begins with the decision by the Federal Cabinet. In the next step, the drafts will be discussed in the Bundestag, its committees, and the Bundesrat , and amended if necessary.
The laws can only come into force after approval by the Bundestag and Bundesrat .
Exactly when this will happen is currently unclear. However, the federal government is aiming for a quick decision . According to consistent media reports, the decision should be made before the summer break in July.
Conclusion
Despite the suspension of family reunification, a possible path remains open for affected families: Many beneficiaries of subsidiary protection have already been living in Germany for years and can , under certain conditions, receive a Settlement permit . With this unlimited Residence permit The reunification of relatives is still possible.
Turbo- Naturalization allowed for a German passport after just three years – but only with special integration efforts and language skills at C1 level. Even without this special rule , acquisition of citizenship remains possible after five years of legal residence – including the option of dual citizenship.
