Foreigners living in Germany will be able to obtain German citizenship more easily and quickly in the future. The federal government on Wednesday, August 23, approved a bill presented by German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, which not only reduces the requirements for applicants but also allows multiple citizenship. However, economic and democratic integration conditions still apply for naturalization, dw.com reported.
Accelerated naturalization and dual citizenship
According to the new law, which still has to be approved by the Bundestag, it will be possible to obtain a German passport after five years of residence in Germany (instead of the current eight years), and in case of “special integration achievements” naturalization will be possible even after three years (now it is six years). Such achievements are considered to be good knowledge of the German language, active participation in volunteer activities, or high professional qualities.
In addition, applicants for citizenship will not have to give up the passport of the country from which they came. Previously, the retention of other citizenships was only allowed in exceptional cases and was often the subject of heated internal political disputes.
At the same time, those who have committed crimes motivated by racism or anti-Semitism will not be able to obtain German citizenship. The law also stipulates that applicants for German citizenship must support themselves and their family members independently and not depend on state social benefits.
With the reform, the federal government wants, among other things, to make Germany more attractive for skilled workers.
“We want people who have been part of our society for a long time to be able to participate in shaping our country democratically,” Feather said. – Because our democracy thrives on everyone participating. Our democracy needs people who stand up for it and make it strong.”