Dual citizenship naturalization Germany
All information on multiple nationality and dual citizenship in Germany.
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Here you learn ...
what dual nationality is and how it arises
which rules apply to dual citizenship in Germany
how dual citizenship was regulated before the last reform
what consequences dual nationality has
Table of contents
1. What is dual citizenship?
2. Multiple nationality before the reform
3. Is dual citizenship permitted in Germany?
4. Consequences of multiple nationalities
5. FAQ
6. Conclusion: Multiple nationality and naturalization
1. What is dual citizenship?
Multiple nationality exists when a person holds several nationalities simultaneously . In everyday language, this is also referred to as dual nationality or dual citizenship. This legal relationship can arise in various ways: through birth, descent, marriage, or naturalization in another country. Multiple nationality often arises when a child is born to parents of different nationalities. Even upon naturalization in Germany, one's previous nationality can be retained under certain conditions. Likewise, German citizens who voluntarily adopt another nationality can retain their German citizenship under certain circumstances.
2. Multiple nationality before the reform
Since the last reform of citizenship law in Germany, multiple citizenship was generally not permitted when applying for naturalization. For a long time, German citizenship law followed the principle of avoiding multiple citizenship , which led to restrictive naturalization practices. Anyone wishing to acquire German citizenship generally had to renounce their previous citizenship - a requirement that deterred many well-integrated people from naturalizing. Since June 2024, however, multiple citizenship has generally been accepted ( Reform of the Citizenship Act (StAG) 2024 ). Accordingly, the principle that previous citizenship had to be renounced upon naturalization has also been abandoned.
Under the old legal situation, it was generally necessary to renounce or lose one's previous nationality in order to be naturalized. Only in exceptional cases could this principle be deviated from, for example:
if the country of origin refused to release the person from nationality,
if giving up citizenship was unreasonable
if a retention permit was granted
In fact, dual citizenship was only tolerated in very exceptional cases . Particularly affected were applicants from countries like Iran, Syria, or Afghanistan, whose renunciation of their citizenship was practically impossible. In these cases, it was often necessary to obtain a complicated so-called naturalization assurance , which then allowed the applicant to renounce their other citizenship. This was intended to serve the principle of international law that prevents statelessness . In practical terms, however, other states almost never cooperated in the renunciation process, making naturalization in Germany extremely difficult.
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3. Is dual citizenship permitted in Germany?
In Germany, dual citizenship is now permitted without reservation . The strict stance toward dual citizenship has been increasingly criticized – both politically and socially. Arguments for a more liberal approach included increased mobility in a globalized world, easier integration for people with a migration background, and the desire of many to maintain their cultural and familial ties to their country of origin.
Since June 2024, the so-called option requirement has also been completely abolished . Children born in Germany can now permanently hold dual citizenship if one parent is German and the other holds a foreign nationality. Children whose parents do not hold a German passport also receive German citizenship according to Section 4 Paragraph 3 of the Nationality Act (StAG) if one parent has been legally residing in Germany for at least five years and has an unlimited right of residence.
With the abolition of the option requirement, the previous regulation for determining the loss of German citizenship was also reformed . Since June 2024, German citizenship has been retained even if a foreign citizen is acquired – the relevant regulations, in particular the former Section 25 of the Nationality Act (StAG), have been abolished. This marks a comprehensive realignment of citizenship law in favor of an open and realistic approach to multiple citizenship.
4. Consequences of multiple nationalities
Despite the legality of multiple nationalities in Germany, holding multiple citizenships can still have negative consequences . If you hold the citizenship of another country in addition to German citizenship, this can have significant legal consequences when traveling to your country of origin. The authorities in your country of origin are entitled under international law to treat you exclusively as their own national – even if you are also a German. In an emergency, this could mean that you are prevented from leaving the country or that you are denied consular protection by German missions abroad. This is based on the principle of international law that a state cannot grant diplomatic protection to its own nationals against another state to which they also belong.
Travel to third countries can also be problematic if they are contractually linked to your country of origin and, for example, have extradition agreements. In such cases, restrictions may also apply, for example, to entry or official measures. Furthermore, there may be entry restrictions to other countries if the relationship between these countries and your country of origin is strained. This information applies not only to your country of origin, but also to any other country of which you are also a citizen.
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Are you looking for a lawyer specializing in German immigration and visa law? We are happy to assist you with residence procedures before embassies, immigration authorities, and administrative courts. Our specialised attorneys are always by your side. Contact us to book an online appointment with a German immigration lawyer!
5. FAQ
What does dual citizenship mean in German citizenship law?
Dual citizenship occurs when a person holds multiple nationalities simultaneously. It can arise through birth, descent, naturalization, or marriage. It is particularly common among children whose parents have different nationalities.
Is dual citizenship permitted in Germany?
Yes, since the reform of the German Nationality Act in June 2024, dual citizenship has generally been permitted in Germany. The previous requirement to renounce one's previous citizenship upon naturalization no longer applies. The option requirement for children born in Germany has also been abolished.
What was the situation before the reform on dual citizenship for naturalization?
Before June 2024, dual citizenship was generally undesirable. Anyone wishing to become a naturalized citizen generally had to renounce their previous citizenship—unless it could not be renounced or could only be renounced under unreasonable conditions.
6. Conclusion
Since the reform of the German Nationality Act in June 2024, dual citizenship has generally been permitted in Germany. This removes a key hurdle for many well-integrated people with a migration background: the previous requirement to renounce one's previous nationality upon naturalization no longer applies. The requirement to opt for a citizenship for children has also been abolished, which provides legal relief for families with mixed nationalities. This new legislation promotes integration, strengthens cultural identity, and significantly simplifies the naturalization process. Nevertheless, legal risks remain when traveling or staying in other countries – especially if a country of origin does not recognize dual citizenship.
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