Federal government tightens citizenship law due to language certificate scandal

VISAGUARD Sekretariat
15 minutes ago
3 min read

The German government has decided to further tighten citizenship laws : Anyone who deceives during the naturalization process or intentionally provides incomplete information will be barred from becoming a German citizen again for up to ten years (see also our article on the revocation of citizenship in cases of deception ). This measure is a response to the increasing number of cases of forged language certificates that have been uncovered in several federal states . The aim of the regulation is to prevent abuse of the naturalization process and to ensure that only individuals who provide honest and complete information receive a German passport.

The ban applies not only to the revocation of naturalizations already granted, but also if the responsible authority determines during the ongoing proceedings that an applicant has "fraudulently deceived, threatened, or bribed." The regulation also covers cases in which essential information was intentionally provided incompletely or falsely . This makes it clear: The Merz government is relying on restriction, deterrence, and strict control in citizenship law .

The scandal surrounding forged language certificates

The background to the legislative change is the scandal surrounding forged language certificates . Media reports and the federal government's response to parliamentary inquiries have revealed a professionally organized trade in certificates nationwide, purporting to attest to language skills at level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) for naturalization. In reality, however, many applicants do not possess these skills, or the certificates originate from unrecognized language schools.

The forged certificates are offered in a variety of ways: via social media, word of mouth, or by directly approaching migrants. In some cases, those affected are unaware that they are acquiring an unrecognized certificate. The authorities respond by thoroughly examining the authenticity of the certificates, conducting personal interviews, and, in cases of suspected fraud, prosecution. Revocation of naturalization under Section 35 of the German Nationality Act (StAG) is a possible consequence if deception is proven.

Connection to restrictive migration policies

The naturalization ban and the language certificate scandal can be placed in a broader context: German migration policy has become increasingly restrictive in recent years . Besides stricter naturalization rules (e.g., the abolition of accelerated naturalization ), this is reflected in higher hurdles for visa issuance, longer processing times, and increased scrutiny of documents. The policy's aim is clearly to prevent abuse, but this also creates significant risks and uncertainties for legitimate applicants. For migrants, this means that diligence, transparency, and professional legal advice are more crucial than ever. Taking shortcuts or attempting to circumvent the system can have long-term consequences – from the revocation of naturalization to a ten-year ban on reapplying.

Conclusion: Language certificates, strict naturalization rules

The recent tightening of citizenship law clearly demonstrates the German government's commitment to combating abuse in the naturalization process . The scandal involving forged language certificates has made it clear that, in the government's view, existing controls are insufficient and that deception can have serious consequences. At the same time, this measure is part of a generally more restrictive migration policy, which includes higher requirements, longer processing times, and stricter examinations. For applicants, this means that honesty, completeness of information, and thorough preparation are crucial to avoid long-term disadvantages. Anyone attempting to circumvent the system risks not only having their citizenship revoked but also facing a lengthy ban on reapplying.

You might also be interested in: