Data breach in Berlin: Hundreds of naturalization applications deleted

An IT glitch at a Berlin IT service provider has led to the loss of nearly 600 digitalnaturalization applications . For applicants, this means even more patience—and resubmission.

A software error with consequences

What was supposed to be progress toward digital government has ended in a setback: At the end of June, a massive data breach occurred at the Berlin IT service provider (ITDZ) . Approximately 582 digitally submitted naturalization applications were lost—deleted due to a software error. This affects individuals who applied for naturalization online through the State Office for Immigration after June 27.

According to the ITDZ, an internal monitoring system had already detected on June 28 that applications had been recorded but not processed correctly. The cause was a " faulty software configuration ," apparently related to a virtual test version of the system. The data could not be recovered—it is permanently lost.

What this means for applicants

The situation is particularly frustrating for those affected. They have to resubmit theirnaturalization applications —thus starting the entire process from scratch. While the ITDZ emphasized that no new fees will be charged and no additional financial outlay will be incurred, time and effort remain wasted. It remains unclear when those affected will be officially informed and how the reapplication process will proceed.

The glitch hits Berlin at an already tense time: processing times for naturalizations are long , the procedures are often complex, and the digitization of the administration is progressing slowly. For many applicants, the data loss means a further delay on the already arduous path to German citizenship.

Digitalization with obstacles

The incident is one of a series of problems the Berlin-based IT service provider has had to contend with in recent years. Technical glitches, outages, and software errors have occurred repeatedly. The digitization of immigration and naturalization procedures is considered a key component in reducing the burden on authorities and making processes more efficient.

The fact that such a sensitive area as naturalization is now affected by a data loss demonstrates how fragile the digital structures of the Berlin administration still are. And it raises the question of how reliable digital application processes can be designed in the future – especially for legally significant processes.

Conclusion: Trust in digital administration is at stake

The data breach is more than a technical error—it's a setback for confidence in the digitization of Berlin's public administration. Those hoping for faster, more transparent naturalization processing are now back to square one.

For those affected, the following applies: As soon as the authorities release official information regarding re-application, the application should be resubmitted as soon as possible. It is also important to digitally back up all documents and retain confirmation of application receipt.

Digital processes can offer great opportunities. But they must function reliably, especially when it comes to fundamental rights and residency status. Berlin now has a duty to regain applicants' trust – with transparency, functioning technology, and better protection of sensitive data.