Waiting list for naturalization in Darmstadt more than 2,100 people

Naturalization in Darmstadt: 2,100 on the waiting list

Germany needs immigration – but the system often slows itself down. A current example comes from Darmstadt : There, more than 2,100 people are on the waiting list for naturalization . Those who have applied wait an average of 14 months for the first interview with the authorities. Overall, it often takes 30 months to complete the process, even though the authorities are legally only allowed three months to process naturalization applications . For many who have long been working in Germany and planning their future here, this is an enormous burden – some, frustrated, move to other countries where processes are faster.

Skilled labor shortage also in public authorities

A key reason for the long processing times for naturalization applications: a lack of staff . In Darmstadt, only three employees are handling the flood of applications. An additional position was advertised several times but could not be filled – requiring civil servant status, low pay, and difficult working conditions. A similar picture is emerging nationwide: The Stuttgart Immigration Office also repeatedly publicizes a significant staff shortage . They are using creative marketing measures to attract new staff. Despite this, up to 30% of the positions at the Immigration Office remain vacant.

Planned change in the law exacerbates the situation

Instead of speeding up the process, lawmakers are currently planning to extend the deadline for filing a lawsuit for failure to act in naturalization applications from three to twelve months . Anyone who can currently file a lawsuit against the slow processing time after three months would have to wait a year in the future. This also applies to Darmstadt. This sends a fatal signal to skilled foreign workers and employers who rely on a reliable administration. Instead of longer deadlines, we need more resources, more efficient processes, and an administration that creates opportunities instead of erecting obstacles.

Conclusion: Germany must become faster

Anyone seeking naturalization in Darmstadt currently needs a great deal of patience or to hire a lawyer specializing in immigration law. Fast and transparent procedures for naturalization, residence permits, and work permits are crucial to retaining qualified people in Germany—and preventing them from being lost to other countries. Unfortunately, the German immigration administration repeatedly fails in this area.