(de-news.net) – Germany has formally amended its citizenship legislation, repealing the expedited naturalization process previously introduced by the “traffic light” coalition government. The Bundestag passed the reform with a parliamentary majority composed of the CDU/CSU and SPD, supported additionally by votes from the AfD. Under the revised framework, foreign nationals will now be eligible to apply for German citizenship only after a minimum of five years of legal residence, replacing the earlier provision that allowed well-integrated individuals to naturalize after just three years. The accelerated pathway, which had been in effect for approximately 15 months, was reportedly utilized by several hundred applicants and had been criticized by detractors as a form of “turbo naturalization.”
Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) defended the legislative change, indicating that the government aimed to send a clear and deliberate signal to the public by curbing so-called “pull factors”—conditions or incentives that might encourage increased migration to Germany. The original regulation, enacted by the SPD, Greens, and FDP, had been framed as a strategic response to the country’s skilled labor shortage. It imposed rigorous criteria, requiring applicants to demonstrate exceptional integration through professional employment or voluntary service, possess advanced proficiency in the German language, and maintain financial independence for themselves and their families. The current coalition contends that meaningful and lasting integration necessitates a more extended period of residency and engagement within German society.
The repeal has prompted criticism from various civil society organizations and opposition figures. Green Party Member of Parliament Filiz Polat reportedly described the measure as a backward-looking policy that could undermine both integration efforts and economic development. The Diakonie welfare organization also expressed disappointment, characterizing the reversal as a missed opportunity to recognize and reward successful integration achievements.
On his part, Thomas Kluth, chair of the Expert Council on Integration and Migration, argued that the legislative adjustment was appropriate, as it would help correct the perception that access to German citizenship had become excessively lenient. Conversely, migration researcher Herbert Brücker, affiliated with the Institute for Employment Research, warned that the rollback could diminish Germany’s appeal to highly qualified professionals, potentially affecting the country’s competitiveness in attracting global talent.
