The German Bundestag has approved a significant amendment to the Nationality Act, altering the pathway to German citizenship and sparking political debate across the parliamentary spectrum. The revised law stipulates a uniform five-year residency requirement for naturalization, effectively eliminating the previous provision which allowed for expedited citizenship – after only three years – for demonstrated exceptional integration achievements.
The vote, conducted via roll call, saw 450 lawmakers in favor, 134 against and two abstentions. The legislation secured backing from the governing coalition partners, CDU/CSU and SPD, alongside the far-right AfD. The Green Party and The Left, however, vehemently opposed the change.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) framed the adjustment as a necessary measure to ensure the German passport serves as genuine recognition of successful integration, rather than an inducement for irregular migration. He characterized the previous, accelerated process as a “turbo-citizenship” program that is now being abolished.
However, the AfD contends that the amendment doesn’t go far enough. Jochen Haug of the AfD criticized the decision, arguing that it only addresses a relatively minor element of German citizenship policy – the three-year expedited route for exceptional integration – which he labelled as having “practically no role” in the naturalization process. He questioned the legitimacy of the change, deeming it a “cosmetic correction” aimed at placating a public increasingly critical of the government’s migration policies.
SPD parliamentarian Sonja Eichwede touted the agreement with the CDU/CSU as a significant step forward, emphasizing that the vote demonstrated widespread acknowledgement of dual citizenship and signaled a resolution to a protracted political conflict.
The Green Party and The Left voiced sharp criticism, arguing that the revised requirements penalize individuals who demonstrate advanced integration early on and actively engage within German society. Filiz Polat (Greens) highlighted studies indicating that access to citizenship fosters economic, social and political participation among immigrants, particularly by improving job prospects and income potential. She added that it encourages skilled professionals to remain in Germany and invest in the country.
Feret Kocak (The Left) launched a broader attack on the government’s overall migration policy, accusing it of inadvertently legitimizing the AfD’s rhetoric and contributing to its electoral success. He demanded expanded opportunities for immigrant participation and advocated for granting voting rights to all residents after five years, regardless of citizenship status.
The legislative shift underscores a growing tension within Germany regarding immigration and national identity, raising questions about the future direction of integration policy and its impact on economic and social inclusion.