Germany: Fast-Track Naturalization Pathway Abolished

As anticipated, Germany's parliament has abolished the country’s three-year fast-track naturalization pathway. This option, which was available only to ‘exceptionally well-integrated’ applicants, was established in 2024 as part of broader naturalization reforms, including decreasing the standard necessary residence period to five years (down from 10 years) and relaxing dual-nationality rules. Following the abolishment of the three-year option, foreign nationals will now only have the five-year residence option in order to become eligible for citizenship. This rule change follows the shifting political landscape in Germany. The relaxed citizenship laws were introduced under the previous center-right government; while these recent restrictions have occurred amid a conservative majority in the country’s legislature.      

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