Union calls for stricter rules on dual nationality
CSU politician Stephan Mayer said in an interview with BILD:
"We need to examine whether we still want dual citizenship - and whether we can afford it."
He also calls for people with two passports who commit criminal or anti-constitutional acts to lose their German passport more quickly.
Cornell Babendererde (CDU), responsible for naturalization law, also explained:
"Dual citizenship should be the exception, not the rule."
It raises the question of whether all naturalized citizens really identify with Germany or whether some are only interested in the advantages of a German passport - such as freedom to travel or social security.
According to the Federal Statistical Office, around 292,000 people were naturalized in 2024 - a new record.
Almost 80 percent of them were allowed to keep their old passport.
What is behind the statements
The Union's demands reflect a fundamental political stance:
People should clearly commit to one country - Germany.
A passport stands for belonging, loyalty and trust.
The idea is that anyone who becomes German or German should only be loyal to Germany.
Proponents of this view say:
- If you have two nationalities, you are caught between two countries.
- In crises or conflicts, there may be doubts about loyalty.
- The commitment to one state is diluted if you have two passports.
But this view is controversial. Many experts consider dual citizenship to be a sign of modern integration - not a lack of loyalty.
Why dual nationality is important
Many people have lived in Germany for years, work here, raise children and pay taxes. At the same time, they don't want to give up their family and cultural background.
Dual citizenship enables both:
full integration in Germany and the preservation of one's own roots.
If Germany were to abolish dual citizenship again, this would have tangible disadvantages:
- People have to decide against their origins.
- Many people cannot be naturalized because their home country does not release them from their citizenship.
- Germany would lose important skilled workers and well-integrated people who would otherwise be prepared to make the application.
However, experience since the 2024 reform shows:
Multiple nationality works - without losing loyalty to Germany.
Migrando explains: How dual nationality is regulated by law
Before you worry: The legal situation is clear and stable - and it protects you.
Dual nationality was already possible in many cases before the 2024 reform.
The previous version of Section 12 StAG (old version) stated that Germany accepts multiple nationality if:
- the country of origin refuses to release them (e.g. Iran, Syria, Eritrea),
- dismissal is legally impossible (e.g. Afghanistan without functioning authorities),
- or the dismissal is unreasonable (e.g. high fees, compulsory military service, legal disadvantages).
As a result, nationals from Afghanistan, Syria, Iran and Eritrea in particular were able to retain their previous citizenship before 2024.
Laws can change at any time.
So far, however, there is no concrete legislative initiative that would actually abolish dual citizenship.
The reform of the Citizenship Act of 2024 currently still applies.
Why you should apply for naturalization now
The political mood can change quickly. The Naturalization Act is not easy and the procedures often take longer - but those who apply now are on the safe side.
If you have been living in Germany for some time and meet the requirements, you should act now to benefit from the current regulations.
✅ Your advantages:
- Dual nationality currently still possible
- Naturalization after 5 years of residence
- Protection against subsequent changes to the law
- full rights in Germany: right to vote, freedom to travel, security
Conclusion: Act now - benefit in the long term
If you meet the requirements, now is the best time to submit your application. Early Naturalization protects you from future restrictions and secures your rights permanently.
