Germany’s new citizenship law will officially come into effect on June 27. The threshold for obtaining German citizenship has been further lowered, allowing applicants to hold multiple nationalities. The German government aims to promote awareness of the naturalization process among foreigners through advertisements. However, the law has sparked controversy.
Under the new regulations, foreign residents in Germany have the opportunity to obtain German citizenship after five years, and in special circumstances, they may even apply after just three years. Previously, the fastest route to citizenship required at least eight years of residency in Germany. Additionally, the law now permits naturalized individuals to hold multiple nationalities, a privilege previously limited to citizens of EU countries.
Reem Alabali-Radovan, Commissioner for Integration Affairs in the German federal government, expressed the desire to ensure that all interested individuals “understand the requirements and procedures for naturalization.” In a letter to various government factions, Alabali-Radovan stated that a website providing essential information and explanatory videos will be launched soon. They also plan to distribute pamphlets containing comprehensive information and procedures related to naturalization.
Furthermore, Alabali-Radovan hopes to engage with interested individuals on social media platforms, such as “Ask Me Anything.” Additionally, individuals who have already been naturalized will share their experiences. A spokesperson confirmed that all information, including websites and promotional materials, will be available in both German and English versions.
The German government introduced the new citizenship law in January of this year, triggering widespread debate and criticism. The CDU/CSU parties, in particular, have accused the government of essentially “selling” German citizenship. As a result, the ruling party had to delay the passage of the law by several weeks during the winter.
The German government aims to enhance the attractiveness of the country to foreign technical workers through this new legislation. However, not all immigrants can seamlessly integrate into the German labor market. A study by the Federal Employment Agency (BA) revealed that a majority of individuals receiving welfare benefits in Germany have an immigrant background, accounting for 63.1% of recipients nationwide.
According to data from the Federal Statistical Office, the states with the highest proportions of welfare recipients with immigrant backgrounds are Hesse (76.4%), Baden-Württemberg (74.1%), and Hamburg (72.8%). Individuals with immigrant backgrounds are defined as those who were not German citizens at birth, whether themselves or their parents.
Over the past decade, the population with immigrant backgrounds has notably increased. This percentage has risen from 20% in 2013 to the current 29%. The proportion of welfare recipients among this group has also seen a corresponding increase, climbing from 43% in 2013 to 63% currently.
Journalist Ulrich Reitz commented on the reforms to the citizenship law, noting that the changes will profoundly alter Germany. He cited a survey indicating that 70% of respondents oppose multiple nationalities and a shortened residency requirement for German citizenship.
Reitz highlighted that these measures are irreversible decisions. He acknowledged the potential implications if another party comes to power, mentioning the possibility of altering the law. However, by that time, many foreign residents in Germany would already have obtained German citizenship and voting rights.
The law firm Schulte Holthausen expressed a more positive response, viewing the reform as a crucial step towards a more inclusive society. They believe that immigrants and their families can now actively contribute to building their new home earlier in areas such as social, cultural, and economic communities.
This legislative reform allows immigrants to hold multiple nationalities sooner and recognizes the diverse identities of foreign individuals living in Germany. Many have resided in Germany for a significant period without acquiring citizenship. Now, immigrants no longer need to renounce their original nationality as before.