Germany eases citizenship rules
Germany's Bundestag has passed a reform of the country's citizenship laws, making it easier for foreigners to obtain German citizenship while retaining their original citizenship, DW has reported.
Under the new rules, foreigners can now apply for German citizenship after five years of residence in Germany, down from eight years. In the case of "special achievements in the field of integration," naturalisation is possible after only three years. Such "achievements" include, among others, mastering the German language, volunteering, or achieving outstanding results at school or work. Image of Bundestag, German parliament buildingOpens in a new window
Another key provision of the new law is that, in principle, foreigners will be allowed to hold dual citizenship. Previously, many foreigners were required to renounce their previous citizenship upon obtaining German citizenship. The only exception to this rule was for citizens of other EU countries or Switzerland. The Berlin government argued that this rule is outdated and tends to discourage many people who feel attached to their home country or to their family who live abroad.
In addition, children born in Germany to foreign parents will be granted German citizenship without further conditions, if at least one parent has been legally residing in Germany for more than five years - three years earlier than before. In addition, according to the reform passed by the Bundestag on Friday, children born in Germany will be able to obtain and retain German citizenship, as well as the citizenship of their parents.
The reform is expected to make Germany more attractive to immigrants and to help to foster integration.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
