German nationality reform (June 2024): dual citizenship and faster naturalisation

I advise private individuals and companies on nationality and migration. Here is a clear guide to what changed on 27 June 2024, who qualifies, and how to prepare a clean application without delays.

Why this matters

The 2024 reform made two big moves: Germany now allows dual citizenship in principle, and the regular timeline for naturalisation is five years (not eight). If you plan early and file with the right evidence, the process is smoother and faster.

What changed in 2024 (plain language)

• Dual citizenship: you can keep your existing nationality when you become German (subject to your other country’s rules).
• Standard timeline: naturalisation is generally possible after 5 years of lawful residence (previously 8).
• Children born in Germany: a child can receive German citizenship at birth if one parent has lived in Germany lawfully for at least 5 years and holds a permanent right of residence.
• Paperwork clean-up: no more “retention permit” to keep German citizenship when taking another, and no more “options obligation” for German-born children of foreign parents.

Eligibility at a glance (standard 5-year route)

For most adults, you apply after 5 years if you meet the core requirements below. Keep the evidence simple and complete.

• Residence: 5 years of lawful, habitual residence in Germany.
• Language: German at level B1 (certificate or accepted proof).
• Civics: knowledge of the legal and social order (naturalisation test or recognised equivalent).
• Livelihood: you can support yourself (and dependants) without relying on basic benefits, with exceptions in specific justified cases.
• Good conduct: no serious criminal offences; commitment to the free democratic order.
• Identity & documents: valid passport/ID, birth/marital records, residence permits, registration records, etc.

“Special integration” fast-track

Under the 2024 law, a further-reduced timeline can be possible in cases of special integration achievements (for example, very strong German and outstanding integration). This is applied case-by-case and requires strict proof.

Policy watch (September 2025): the Federal Government has proposed abolishing the 3-year “turbo” route. The draft law went through a first reading in June 2025 and is under parliamentary review. Until a change is passed and enters into force, the 2024 rules remain applicable. Always check the current status before filing.

My step-by-step plan to file well

1. Timeline check. Confirm you meet the 5-year mark (or whether a shorter route may apply under the current law).
2. Language & civics first. Secure B1 proof and the naturalisation test (or recognised exemption) before you book an appointment.
3. Documents package. Prepare identity, residence, employment/income, insurance, and civil-status records. Keep translations certified where required.
4. Dual citizenship note. If you will keep another nationality, verify your other country’s rules (some countries restrict dual nationality).
5. Submit cleanly. File with a complete checklist and labelled copies. Avoid “to follow” gaps that trigger pauses.

Quick self-check (copy this)

• I have 5 years of lawful residence in Germany (continuous and provable).
• I hold B1 German (or stronger) and have the naturalisation test done or a valid exemption.
• I can show financial independence (with permitted exceptions where the law allows).
• My identity and civil-status records are complete and translated where required.
• If applicable, I confirmed my other country’s rules on dual nationality.

Common pitfalls (and how to avoid them)

• Evidence gaps: missing residence history, tax/insurance records, or civil-status documents slow the file.
• Language proof issues: presenting certificates the authority does not recognise, or not matching B1.
• Unclear names/dates: inconsistent spellings across passports, birth and marriage documents—fix with official corrections before filing.
• Dual citizenship assumptions: forgetting that your other country might restrict or condition dual nationality.
• Rushing appointments: booking before your package is complete; better to submit once, cleanly, than to patch later.

FAQs

Can I keep my other citizenship?

Yes—Germany now allows multiple citizenship in principle. Your other country’s rules still apply, so check them before you file.

Is five years always enough?

Five years is the general rule under the 2024 reform if you meet all other conditions. Some applicants may need more time if requirements are not fully met.

What about the 3-year route?

The 2024 law introduced a shorter path for special integration achievements. In 2025 the government proposed abolishing it; Parliament is reviewing the draft. Check the current status before relying on it.

My child was born in Germany. Can they be German?

Yes, if one parent has at least 5 years of lawful residence in Germany and holds a permanent right of residence at the time of birth.

Do I need a “retention permit” if I later add another citizenship?

No. After the 2024 reform, you no longer need a retention permit to keep German nationality when you acquire another.

Call to action

Schedule a personal consultation. I will review your eligibility, clean up your document trail, and help you file once—properly.

Further reading (official)

• BMI — New law on nationality takes effect (overview)
• Federal Foreign Office — Law on Nationality (dual citizenship; 5-year rule)
• German Missions — Significant changes from 27 June 2024
• Federal portal — Naturalisation in Germany (requirements)

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not replace individual legal advice.