Statistics published: Record high number of naturalizations in Germany

The German Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) reports that almost 300,000 foreigners were naturalized in 2024. In 2024, Germany set a historic naturalization record: 291,955 people received German citizenship – an increase of 46% compared to the previous year. These figures were published by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) on June 10, 2025. This represents the highest level since the survey began in 2000. Particularly striking: Naturalization numbers from Syria, Turkey, and Russia increased significantly. We at VISAGUARD explain what's behind this development – and what it means for you if you're considering naturalization.

Why so many naturalizations?

A key reason for the increase is the reform of citizenship law , which came into force on June 27, 2024. The new law brings important relief:

• Naturalization after only 5 years of residence (instead of 8 years as before)

• Even after 3 years with special integration achievements (e.g. good academic or professional performance)

• Retention of previous nationality possible in most cases

These changes make German citizenship more attractive – and attainable – for many people.

Who was naturalized?

Most naturalizations in 2024 were for people with Syrian nationality:

• Syria : 83,150 people (28%)

• Turkey : 22,525 people (8%)

• Iraq : 13,545 people (5%)

• Russia : 12,980 people (4%)

• Afghanistan : 10,085 people (3%)

The increase among Russian nationals is particularly striking : More than six times as many were naturalized as in the previous year – an increase of 551% . The number of Turkish nationals also more than doubled.

Average length of stay

It is also interesting to know how long people have lived in Germany before their naturalization :

• Syrians: Ø 7.4 years

• Turks: Ø 23.1 years

• Russians: Ø 14.5 years

• Iraqis: Ø 8.7 years

• Afghans: Ø 8.9 years

  
  

The relatively short length of stay for Syrian nationals shows that many came during the refugee migration of 2015/2016 and now meet the requirements for naturalization – particularly through the new law.

What does this mean for you?

If you've been living in Germany for a while and want a secure future with full rights, now is a good time to consider naturalization . With the new regulations, the path to a German passport is shorter and more open than ever before. Especially if you have good academic or professional achievements, you have a chance of faster naturalization after just three years . Even if you want to keep your original citizenship, this is now easily possible in many cases.

Do you want to become a naturalized citizen? We can help you.

At VISAGUARD, we support you on your path to naturalization. We connect you with specialized immigration lawyers – straightforward, competent, and tailored to your specific situation.

Start your naturalization process now – with VISAGUARD at your side.