Germany라이브 바카라 incoming governing coalition—comprising the center-right CDU/CSU alliance and the center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD)—plans to eliminate the expedited three-year path to citizenship for “well-integrated” immigrants. The move is part of the coalition agreement unveiled this week.
No More ‘Turbo’ Naturalization
The fast-track option, introduced in June under the previous coalition of the SPD, Greens, and Free Democrats (FDP), allowed certain applicants to become citizens after just three years. Eligibility required advanced German language skills (C1 level) and demonstrable integration achievements, such as community involvement, academic success, or professional excellence.
However, the CDU and its Bavarian sister party, the CSU, have consistently criticized the policy, labeling it “turbo” naturalization. Critics argue that three years of residency is too short a period to warrant German citizenship.
While the expedited route will be scrapped, the standard path to naturalization after five years of continuous residence will remain intact. Applicants must meet the existing requirements, including a B1 level of German. Dual citizenship will also continue to be allowed under the current legal framework.
Dual Citizenship To Stay
Prior to last year's reform, dual citizenship between Germany and a non-EU member state was largely not allowed. Since the reform came into effect, naturalization applications for German citizenship have spiked, with Germany's large Turkish community taking interest.
Although conservatives such as CDU leader and likely next German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have criticized the idea of dual citizenship, it seems they compromised on the issue during coalition talks with the SPD.
The next German coalition will also not pursue the idea of withdrawing German citizenship from naturalized people who are dual citizens.
Earlier, parties were interested in exploring the idea of whether German citizenship can be revoked from naturalized citizens characterized as terror supporters, antisemites or extremists who "call for the abolition of the free and democratic basic order."
This idea, put forward by the CDU/CSU, was criticized by the SPD as meaning that German citizenship would be "worth less" for dual nationals. The proposal was also condemned by migrant associations in Germany.
Instead, the coalition agreement for the next government said the parties will examine possible changes to expel those who "call for the abolition of the free and democratic basic order," but this would apply to non-citizens rather than dual nationals.
