Germany's New Citizenship Law Takes Effect, Allows Dual Citizenship

The long-anticipated reform of Germany's citizenship law (Staatsangehörigkeitsgesetz – StAG) officially came into effect on January 27, 2024. This landmark legislation introduces several significant changes aimed at modernising the country's naturalisation process.

Perhaps the most widely reported and impactful change is the general permission for dual (or multiple) citizenship. Previously, most applicants for German naturalisation were required to renounce their original nationality, with only limited exceptions. Under the new law, this requirement is largely abolished, allowing individuals to retain their existing citizenship alongside their new German one.

Another key reform is the reduction of the standard residency period required for naturalisation from eight years to five years. In cases of "special integration achievements," such as very good German language skills (C1 level) or outstanding professional achievements, this period can be further shortened to just three years.

The law also simplifies the process for children born in Germany to foreign parents, who can now automatically acquire German citizenship if at least one parent has been a legal resident for five years (down from eight years) and holds an unlimited right of residence. These changes aim to facilitate integration and reflect Germany's reality as a diverse immigration society.