Naturalization in record time: Heilbronn shows how it's done right

While many cities and districts in Baden-Württemberg struggle with excessively long processing times for naturalizations , Heilbronn is demonstrating that things can be done differently. 1,000 naturalizations in 2025 alone – that's not only an impressive number, but also a clear sign that a modern, citizen-oriented administration is possible. For many immigrants who have settled in Germany, naturalization is the final, often most emotional, step on the path to full integration. The fact that this step is achieved significantly faster in Heilbronn than in many parts of the country deserves recognition – both for the applicants and for the authority itself.

Naturalization as a success story: From Albania to Heilbronn

Sigida Hajdari's story is representative of many successful integration biographies. Twelve years ago, as an 18-year-old, she came to the Heilbronn region from Albania with no knowledge of German. Today, she works as a medical assistant at the SLK Clinic, speaks fluent German, and became the 1,000th person to receive naturalization this year . Her story demonstrates how integration succeeds through education, work, and civic engagement—and how important a reliable, supportive administration is for this process.

Heilbronn's mayor, Harry Mergel, praised Hajdari's journey as an example of courage and perseverance. She emphasized how proud she was to now officially be part of German society. "I've found a second home here," she said. It's no coincidence that such success stories are piling up in Heilbronn: The city has understood that immigration must not only be managed, but also shaped.

Modern naturalization law meets efficient administration

Since June 2024, naturalization in Germany has been possible after just five years of residence— three years earlier than before . In addition, many people are allowed to retain their previous citizenship. This reform has led to a significant increase in applications nationwide. However, while processing times in many authorities have increased to 14 to 18 months, Heilbronn reacted early: More staff, clear processes, and a noticeably service-oriented approach have led to comparatively rapid completion of procedures here.

Matthias Riegler, head of the Citizenship Authority, explains: "We want people living here to quickly feel like they are part of our society." That sounds obvious – but in many places it isn't. In Heilbronn, this self-image seems to be a lived reality. The city administration works in a solution-oriented manner, communication with applicants is straightforward, and even lawyers specializing in immigration law report positive experiences in working with the authority.

A model for other authorities

In the surrounding districts, naturalization often takes over a year, sometimes even up to one and a half years . Heilbronn demonstrates that it can be done faster, more citizen-friendly, and more professionally – and that efficiency and humanity are not mutually exclusive. For many people seeking support through VisaGuard or other advisory services, Heilbronn is a positive example of how the administration can also be a partner on the path to naturalization.

The record number of 1,000 naturalizations is more than just a number. It represents lived integration, functioning administrative structures, and a genuine welcome into society. Those who become naturalized in Heilbronn do so not just to obtain a German passport—but because the city tangibly demonstrates that belonging is taken seriously here. If other authorities in Baden-Württemberg look to Heilbronn, they might see that fair, prompt, and respectful treatment of applicants is not only possible but also worthwhile—for everyone involved.