On January 19th 2024, the German Bundestag passed a landmark reform to its citizenship law. The new law significantly eases the path to both naturalisation and dual citizenship in Germany. It opens up exciting new opportunities for many internationals residing in the country.
This marks a historical shift from Germany’s previous stance on dual citizenship, making it much easier for millions of residents to fully integrate into German society and participate in its democracy.
Dual Citizenship: What You Should Know
The most exciting part of the new immigration laws for the majority of internationals is the acceptance of dual citizenship. Previously, individuals acquiring German citizenship were generally required to renounce their existing nationality.
Shorter Residency Requirement
Until now, you needed eight years of legal residency in Germany to apply for citizenship. This has now been lowered to five years for most individuals. For internationals with “special integration achievements,” such as exceptional language skills or voluntary work, the wait can be even shorter at three years.
Automatic Citizenship for Children
The new citizenship reform extends its benefits beyond adults, offering exciting opportunities for children too. Children born in Germany to at least one German parent who has been a legal resident for five years will automatically receive German citizenship, even if the other parent is not a German citizen. This simplifies the process for families with mixed nationalities and fosters a sense of belonging from an early age.
Benefits of Dual Citizenship in Germany
Right to Vote
If you plan to settle in Germany, build a career and even raise a family, you would find it important to have a say in decisions that impact your daily life, career and surrounding.
Dual citizenship empowers you to actively participate in German democracy. You gain the right to vote in local, state, and national elections, shaping the future of your new home country. This allows you to actively shape the country you have chosen to call home.
Visa-Free Travel
The German passport is the second most strongest passport globally. Having German citizenship unlocks visa-free travel to over 190 countries, including all EU member states. This translates to seamless travel opportunities all over the world, opening doors to exciting personal and professional journeys.
Employment and Education
With dual citizenship, you are in a better position to live, work, and study in any of the EU member states without extra immigration restrictions. This expands your career options significantly, allowing you to pursue professional opportunities across Europe.
Family Benefits
As mentioned above, if you have children, they automatically inherit your German citizenship under the new law, simplifying future family travel plans as well as education planning.
Cultural Connection
Dual citizenship allows you to maintain strong cultural and familial ties to both your German and existing nationality. You can participate in cultural events, traditions, and family gatherings in both countries, preserving your cultural heritage.
Additionally, as you do not have to renounce your existing nationality, you are able to visit your home country without any immigration hurdles.
Other Benefits
Additional benefits may include easier property ownership in Germany while also being able to invest in property in your country of origin. Furthermore, being a German citizen has a great advantage if you plan to start a business in Germany compared to as a resident.
Please note that these are just some of the potential benefits of having dual citizenship in Germany. The specific advantages you experience will depend on your individual circumstances and goals.
Who is Eligible for Dual Citizenship in Germany?
Non-EU citizens who:
- have legally lived in Germany for five years (or three years if you have exceptional integration achievements).
- meet the requirements for basic integration, such as language proficiency and familiarity with German culture.
- have not been convicted of serious crimes or do not have a criminal record.
Children born in Germany:
- to at least one German parent who has been a legal resident for five years.
Please be aware that this is only a general overview and individual circumstances may cause eligibility to vary. It is recommended to consult from your local immigration authority to verify your eligibility.