As of January 2024, a new law on dual citizenship may enter into force in Germany, which is being considered in light of the agreements reached. Despite two postponements of the vote on the law, the coalition announced that it had resolved previous differences and was moving forward with the law. Read more about the adoption of the German dual citizenship law

Germany's dual citizenship law could officially come into force in January 2024, according to an agreement reached by a coalition of parties. Despite two postponements of the vote, the settlement of differences between the parties gave the green light for the law to proceed. The second and third readings and voting will take place in January 2024, and if all goes well, the law will be officially enacted in April 2024. This initiative opens up new opportunities for foreigners legally residing in Germany to retain their primary citizenship and simultaneously obtain German citizenship.

One of the key innovations in the law on dual citizenship in Germany is the possibility for foreigners legally residing in the country to retain their primary citizenship and also obtain German citizenship without losing their previous status. However, it is important to keep in mind that applications for German citizenship may take different amounts of time, possibly several years, to be processed in different regions of Germany.

Another significant change is the facilitation of the citizenship procedure for those who speak German and have achieved significant success in their professional field. Such persons can expect to have their waiting period reduced from the three years usually required to obtain citizenship.

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If you have any questions during your move, please consult an international lawyer. We help you solve complex and simple issues for your comfort and safety in Germany. Our experts are ready to provide you with professional advice and assistance in resolving all legal issues related to your stay in Germany.

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Key provisions of the law on dual citizenship in Germany

The introduction of the law on dual citizenship in Germany, scheduled for January 2024, will open up new prospects for foreigners legally residing in the country. According to the new rules, foreigners will be able to retain their primary citizenship and, at the same time, obtain German citizenship without renouncing the other.

However, it is important to keep in mind that the processing time for applications for German citizenship can vary significantly depending on the region of the country. In some areas, this process can take several years, and you should keep this aspect in mind when planning.

Another important benefit of the new law is that those who speak German and have achieved success in their professional field will be able to obtain citizenship without waiting for the three-year period, as it was before. This will simplify the integration process for those who are actively involved in local society and deeply embedded in German culture.

The procedure for adopting a law on dual citizenship in Germany

The latest postponement of the consideration of the law on dual citizenship in Germany indicates deep divisions between political forces. The German Free Democratic Party (FDP), the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the Greens have not reached an agreement on important changes that affect non-EU citizens receiving unemployment benefits.

The Social Democratic Party (SPD) opposed restrictions on non-EU citizens receiving benefits from obtaining dual citizenship. The party believes that the majority is entitled to this status, especially given the approval of the new law. An important position was also stated that the restrictions should not apply to the generation of guest workers, migrants from Turkey who came to Germany between 1955 and 1973 to work.

By the way, the SPD warns that the stricter conditions of dual citizenship should not apply to disabled people who are not EU citizens and have previously received assistance from the German government.

One of the proposed changes was to limit the right to dual citizenship to non-EU residents who receive unemployment benefits. This approach is supported by the FDP, but faced a strong opposition from the SPD. The latter party emphasized that the majority has the right to dual citizenship, regardless of the conditions of social support.

An important aspect in this dispute was the disabled, who are not EU residents and receive assistance from the German government. The SPD advocated that stricter rules should not apply to this group, emphasizing their special need for protection and attention.

These debates hit on key aspects of the future law and its impact on social justice in the context of dual citizenship in Germany.

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The editors of Visit World recommend using the Travel Guide for Germany for a comfortable and safe trip.

The guide is a detailed written document that contains basic advice on obtaining a visa, crossing the border, getting a job, citizenship, and much more. More details at the link.

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in Germany;

Legal advice on immigration in Germany;

Travel insurance for foreigners in Germany;

Medical insurance all over the world.

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Paragraph 24 for refugees: eligibility for a residence permit for asylum seekers in Germany.