The facilities granted by the laws of the country – The New Tribune

For foreigners, acquiring the citizenship of a European country is usually a complex process characterized by long and arduous administrative procedures. This process is essential for those seeking permanent settlement and usually includes mastering the country’s language, economic and social integration and respect for the fundamental values ​​of society. However, the new legislation Germany Aims to simplify and speed up the process for the millions of foreigners living on its territory.

since June 27, 2024German nationality law offers an accelerated path to naturalization. Foreign residents now only need five years of legal residence to apply for citizenship. This period can even be shortened to three years if: Specific integrated performance”, Examples include advanced language skills, volunteer commitment, or outstanding professional or academic performance.

In addition to reducing the time required for applications, the law introduces several important new features. For example, dual citizenship is now allowed for everyone, a measure that recognizes an individual’s emotional and cultural ties to their country of origin. The reform hopes that the federal government – a coalition of the Social Democrats, the Greens and the Liberals – will be able to encourage faster integration and increase the number of naturalizations.

However, naturalization remains conditional on compliance with the fundamental principles of the German Constitution. Anti-Semitism, racist behavior or any behavior that shows a lack of respect for human dignity are grounds for exclusion. In addition, with regard to the history of the Nazi regime, Germany requires new citizens to recognize the country’s historical responsibility, commit to protecting minority rights and reject aggressive wars.

Critics of the reforms, especially from the Alternative for Germany party (Alternative for Germany) and the Conservative Party CDU/CSUwarned against devaluing German nationality, which they feared would be transformed into a simple ” commodity. »

This revised legislation also provides relief to long-term immigrant workers and their descendants. Migrant Workers» Historical people and people from the former GDR will benefit from simplified conditions to demonstrate their linguistic and cultural integration.

In addition, children born in Germany to foreign parents will be able to acquire citizenship more quickly if one of the parents has been legally resident in the country for more than five years. This adjustment should lead to better educational and professional success for these young people.

Although the path to European citizenship remains fraught with pitfalls, Germany’s new law represents an important step toward facilitating the process, reflecting a shift in the country’s integration policy while underscoring Germany’s historical responsibility.