Germany tightens rules for migrants as three-year naturalisation ends

After the US, Germany has also opted for stricter rules for migrants as ‘naturalisation’ after just three years of residence is set to be eliminated.

Since the appointment of centre-right German Chancellor Friedrick Merz on May 6, politics and policies have been brewing in the country.

In one such step by Merz on May 28, efforts were made to reduce irregular migration and ease pressure on integration systems.

“Naturalisation should once again be clearly linked to sustainable integration. To this end, the Federal Cabinet has decided to amend the Citizenship Act. In future, the possibility of naturalisation after just three years of residence is set to be eliminated,” read a German press release.

“The regular period of prior residence was reduced from eight to five years with the 2024 reform of citizenship laws. In addition, the reform made naturalisation possible after just three years with special integration milestones. This option is now no longer available,” it added.

According to the statement, all applicants will now be required to have a minimum residence period of five years. In addition, they must demonstrate adequate German language skills or possess an independent means of subsistence.

Merz emphasised in his policy statement, “We will make integration possible, but also require it. Because even and especially where people live together in freedom, there needs to be a common horizon of values and a common language”.

What is naturalisation?

Under the new Nationality Law of Germany, one can become a German citizen after living in Germany for at least five years. To qualify, one must be well integrated into German society, which includes having sufficient language skills and knowledge of the way of life in Germany.

Another naturalisation requirements were:

• Support yourself financially.
• Speak German at least at level B1.
• Having a basic understanding of Germany’s culture, way of life, and legal system.
• Uphold Germany’s democratic principles.
• Clean criminal record.
• Acknowledge Germany’s responsibility for the crimes of the National Socialist regime, and declare your commitment to the protection of Jewish life, peace, and the rejection of aggressive war.