Germany Streamlines Citizenship Process, Making it Easier for Foreigners to Become Citizens”
The German government has approved a new law that will make it easier for foreigners living in the country to become citizens.
The new law reduces the required residence period from eight years to five years. It also allows children born in Germany to gain citizenship if one parent has lived in the country for five years.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser called the new law a “crucial reform” for Germany. She said that it would allow millions of people to become German citizens and enjoy all the rights and benefits that come with it.
The new law also includes a number of other provisions, such as:
- Mandatory integration, including learning the German language and taking part in civic education courses.
- A three-year naturalization option for exceptional workers or volunteers with strong German language skills.
- Automatic German citizenship for children born in Germany if one parent has lived in the country lawfully for over five years.
- The removal of the naturalization test for guest and contract workers who have made significant contributions to Germany’s development.
However, the new law also includes some restrictions. For example, it states that those who oppose gender equality or practice polygamy will not be eligible for citizenship benefits.
The government also emphasizes that those seeking citizenship must be able to support themselves and their families.