Changes to the German Nationality Act

Currently, there are about 12 million people with a nationality other than German living in Germany, with more coming in every year, which is why the news on changes to the process of becoming a German citizen are very important. The reform of the German Nationality Act was passed by the German parliament in January and the new regulations are currently scheduled to come into effect in April of 2024.

We’d like to share the key changes with you today!

??? Faster naturalization

Foreigners will be eligible to obtain German citizenship after five years instead of eight years.

?? Reward of special immigration efforts

With proof of certain immigration efforts, such as language skills, volunteer work or good performance at school or at a job, naturalization will be possible after only three years.

?? Multi-nationality

So far, bar a few exceptions, most people had to surrender their previous passport/nationality when becoming a German national. In the future, it will be possible to keep both nationalities (unless prohibited by the country of origin), making the German naturalization process much more attractive.

?? Children born in Germany

Children of foreign parents born in Germany will become German nationals if at least one parent has been legally living in Germany for more than five years – previously, eight years was the minimum.

In conclusion, more people will be eligible much faster for the German nationality, increasing Germany’s attractiveness for highly skilled employees from all around the world.

Welcome to Germany! ??