What is the current focus of Germany's citizenship legislation?

German officials are set to vote on a comprehensive dual nationality law that aims to fundamentally alter the country's citizenship and naturalization laws.

When is the cabinet vote expected to take place?

The cabinet vote on the citizenship measure is expected to occur "this week or next," according to Stephan Thomae, an FDP MP involved in the reforms.

What would the cabinet vote signify?

Approval in the cabinet would clear the path for the proposed citizenship bill to move forward for a parliamentary vote.

What are the potential dates for the cabinet meetings?

The cabinet meetings for the citizenship measure are scheduled for either Wednesday, August 23, or Thursday, August 30.

Everything you need to know FAQ Germany News

German officials plan to vote on citizenship Law “in August.”

Kinjal NarangAugust 19, 2023

169 1 minute read

Table of Contents

German officials plan to vote on citizenship legislation “in August.”

By the end of this month, the cabinet is set to vote on Germany’s long-awaited dual nationality law, according to The Local’s sources. Cabinet ministers are moving on with proposals to fundamentally alter Germany’s citizenship and naturalisation laws after returning from the summer break on Monday. A cabinet vote on the citizenship measure is most likely to take place “this week or next,” according to Stephan Thomae, an FDP MP working on the reforms.

The citizenship bill

- The citizenship bill is scheduled to be presented to the cabinet during the summer break.
- Timing: Expected to be brought up either the following week or the week after.
- Parties’ differences regarding the measure are no longer present.
- A second government source confirms the expectation of cabinet approval in the upcoming meetings.
- Cabinet meetings: Wednesday, August 23, or Thursday, August 30.
- Approval in the cabinet would pave the way for a parliamentary vote.
- Parliament vote: Anticipated after the Bundestag reconvenes on September 5.

Sweeping reforms of citizenship legislation in August

- Germany’s naturalisation rules updated under the traffic-light coalition of SPD, Greens, and FDP since December 2021.
- The Interior Ministry shared the new draft of the citizenship law online in May.
- Ongoing review involving federal, and state governments, and stakeholders for feedback and changes.
- Proposed changes in the law:
  1. Removal of prohibition on non-EU individuals holding multiple nationalities.
  2. Non-EU individuals can retain old passports after becoming Germans.
  3. Residency requirement reduced from 8 to 5 years (6 to 3 in specific cases).
  4. Language requirements eased for individuals over 67 years old.

In conclusion, Germany’s citizenship regulations have undergone a transformation under the recent coalition, heralding a more inclusive approach. The draft law’s provisions, including allowing dual nationality for non-EU individuals and easing residency and language requirements, signify a progressive shift towards a more flexible and accessible naturalization process.