The new German government is considering abolishing the previous government’s decision to acquire German citizenship in three years for those who are distinguished in one area. AfD also agrees. It was a decision by the previous government of the “light traffic light” with a high symbolism, since it wanted to send the signal of an open and receptive society, ready to integrate quickly and equally to those who really want it.

Since the summer of 2024 those who wished it and had to show some achievements or discrimination in their studies or work, but also some excellent social activity were able to gain German citizenship after just three years of staying in the country. In the past, the corresponding period was generally eight years and in special cases five. Five years, however, remains on the basis of the new government agreement.

Who reacted

This decision was criticized by both the Christian Democrats and the far -right Alternative for Germany (AfD) who had given her the ironic designation “Turbo naturalization”. Now the Social Democrats have decided to make the laughter of their strongest partner and abolish this provision, which they themselves had promoted, returning to five years again. The decision has caused a “partial” satisfaction with AfD, which would of course prefer to never acquire a German passport by the “unpopular” Germans. In any case, it is a move that aims to satisfy the conservative audience of Friedrich Mertz, the next Chancellor, who seems to believe, as many of his peers in Europe, that the far -right can only be overthrown if they can be overthrown if

Double nationality remains

What initially existed as a thought, but eventually abandoned was to have the possibility of depriving citizenship by those who were suspected of terrorist, anti -Semitic or other “extreme” action. This proposal initially existed in the text of the negotiation for the formation of the Coalition, but was strongly criticized by various migrant organizations in Germany.

What is also not going to be abolished, although it was also under the microscope by Christian Democratic politicians, is the maintenance of dual citizenship. Anyway, many countries do not deprive citizenship, even if a citizen requests them to obtain another.

Do applications deliberately delay?

It is worth noting, however, that despite the relevant “express” arrangement, which had decided by Social Democrats, Greens and Liberals and implemented in July 2024, in some German states, applications were dramatically delayed. In some cases, the applicants were even 18 months for the authorities to decide whether to accept their request. Some have also appealed to justice by accusing services for deliberate inactivity. They respond to their part by increasing the number of applications, due to the change in the relevant law.

In any case, the fact that the Mertz government is choosing to begin its term with such a decision that is more symbolic than practical, in combination with the adoption of tougher measures for migration, asylum and deportations are indicative of its orientation, but also of its orientation.

It is no coincidence that the government coalition program is entitled “Responsibility for Germany” that enables many (ethnocentric) interpretations.