In a recent development, Germany has introduced a groundbreaking law that paves the way for granting citizenship to a substantial number of its foreign residents. Notably, this legislation brings about significant changes, including reducing the mandatory period of residence in Germany from eight years to five years. Moreover, children born in Germany will now be eligible for citizenship if one of their parents has lived in the country for at least five years, according to a report by SchengenVisaInfo.com.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser welcomed the law’s approval by the Federal government, highlighting its pivotal role as one of the cornerstone reforms within the governing traffic light coalition in Germany. Faeser emphasized the relevance of modernizing immigration laws to position the country at the forefront of the global competition for talented individuals.
“The modernization of citizenship laws is hence a critical factor in enhancing Germany’s competitiveness as a business hub. With the successful enactment of the Skilled Immigration Act, we are now taking a significant stride forward with this new citizenship law,” Minister Faeser stated.
Presently, approximately 5.3 million out of the 12 million foreign nationals currently residing in Germany have called the country their home for a decade or more. The Ministry underscores that this fact underscores the need for reform, as a considerable segment of individuals deeply integrated into German society lacks the ability to participate and contribute on an equal democratic basis.
As the law takes effect, millions of long-standing residents will gain the opportunity to attain German citizenship and enjoy the associated rights.
In a statement issued post the law’s approval, the Ministry of Interior outlined the following key aspects of the legislation:
Successful integration, proficiency in the German language, and self-sustenance will become prerequisites for naturalization.
The duration of residence required for naturalization will be shortened to five years from the current eight.
Accelerated naturalization (after three years) will be possible for individuals displaying exceptional professional or voluntary contributions, fluent German language skills, and financial independence.
Children born in Germany to foreign parents will automatically receive German citizenship if at least one parent has legally resided in the country for over five years.
The naturalization test will be eliminated for guest workers and contract employees who have significantly contributed to Germany’s development.
The legislation enforces adherence to the democratic foundation and values of the society. Disregard for gender equality and engagement in polygamy will disqualify individuals from the new citizenship privileges.
The government also underscores the importance of prospective German citizens’ ability to financially support themselves and their dependents.
Overall, the new German law represents a substantial step toward inclusivity, offering a pathway to citizenship for a significant portion of the country’s foreign residents.