The reform of the Staatsangehörigkeitsgesetz (StAG), which entered into force in stages, is now fully operative as of June 2025. The amendment represents the most significant change to German nationality law in over two decades.
Reduced residency requirement
The standard lawful residence period required for naturalisation falls from 8 years to 5 years. The reform also introduced a 3-year fast track for applicants with special integration achievements; however, this route was subsequently abolished on 30 October 2025. A minimum of 5 years of lawful residence is now universally required.
Dual citizenship permitted
Germany now permits retention of a prior nationality upon naturalisation. The previous rule requiring renunciation of foreign citizenship, which had deterred many long-term residents from applying, is abolished. This change applies to all nationalities without distinction.
Children born in Germany
Children born in Germany to at least one parent who has been legally resident for 5 years (reduced from 8) now acquire German citizenship at birth, provided the parent holds a qualifying residence status.
Hardship grounds for older applicants
The reform introduces a clearer legal basis for older applicants (generally over 67) who cannot meet language or civic knowledge requirements due to age or health grounds to be naturalised under simplified conditions.
Language and loyalty requirements unchanged
Applicants must still demonstrate B1-level German proficiency (Goethe-Zertifikat B1 or equivalent) and pass the Einbürgerungstest (33 questions, 17 correct required). Disqualifying grounds — criminal convictions, active support for anti-constitutional organisations — remain in force.
Applications under the old rules
Applications submitted before the reform entered into force are adjudicated under the rules applicable at the time of submission. Applicants with pending applications who benefit from the new rules may withdraw and re-submit.