A new German coalition aims to abolish the country’s three-year expedited path to citizenship for ‘well-integrated’ immigrants, marking a shift in policy towards a more nuanced approach to immigration.
The next German governing coalition, consisting of the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party the Christian Social Union (CSU), has announced plans to abolish a 3-year expedited path to citizenship for ‘well-integrated’ immigrants. The decision was made in accordance with the parties’ coalition agreement released this week.
Requirements for Citizenship
The 3-year option, which became available to applicants last June, requires individuals to possess an advanced C1 level of German and demonstrate other achievements of strong integration in German society, such as volunteer work or high achievements at work or in their studies. However, the CDU and CSU had often criticized this path, calling it ‘turbo’ naturalization.
To be eligible for German citizenship, applicants must meet certain requirements.
They must have been a resident in Germany for at least eight years, or six years if married to a German citizen.
Applicants must also pass the integration course and demonstrate proficiency in German language skills.
Additionally, they must not have any pending criminal charges or convictions.
German citizenship can be acquired through naturalization, adoption, or descent from a German parent.
Dual Citizenship to Remain
Despite conservative criticism, dual citizenship will still be permitted. In fact, since last year’s reform came into effect, naturalization applications for German citizenship have spiked, with Germany’s large Turkish community taking interest. The SPD has also supported the continued permit of dual citizenship.
Dual citizenship refers to a situation where an individual holds citizenship in two or more countries.
This can occur through birth, naturalization, or by descent.
According to the United Nations, approximately 25 million people worldwide hold dual citizenship.
The benefits of dual citizenship include increased travel freedom, access to multiple economies, and the ability to vote in both countries' elections.
However, it also raises issues such as taxation, military service, and potential conflicts between the two governments.
Changes to German Naturalization Process
The new coalition agreement includes several changes to the German naturalization process. Immigrants will still be able to apply for German citizenship after 5 years of continuous residency in the country and an intermediate B1 level of German, as introduced last year’s reform. Additionally, expelling individuals who ‘call for the abolition of the free and democratic basic order’ will only apply to non-citizens, not dual nationals.
A Shift in Policy
The decision to abolish the 3-year citizenship path marks a shift in policy for Germany. While the move is seen as an effort to slow down naturalization, it also reflects the country’s growing recognition of the importance of integration and the need for a more nuanced approach to immigration.
Germany's immigration policy is governed by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF).
The country has a points-based system, evaluating applicants based on factors such as education, work experience, language proficiency, and age.
In 2015, Germany introduced a 'residence permit' for skilled workers, allowing them to live and work in the country for up to three years.
According to BAMF, over 2 million immigrants arrived in Germany between 2015 and 2020, with the majority coming from Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq.
