- Chancellor Scholz refers to a significant chance as a nation of immigrant populations.
It was about time for the introduction of the new immigration law, according to Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD). "Being a thriving immigration nation – that offers Germany a remarkable historical chance," Scholz stated at a naturalization ceremony in Bremen's town hall. This reform permits the Federal Republic to bring in sufficient workers and continue its growth in the future.
The legislation passed by the traffic light coalition in June offers, among other things, a claim to naturalization after five years rather than the previous eight. If foreign nationals demonstrate exceptional integration accomplishments, they can acquire German citizenship in just three years. Criteria for expedited naturalization include strong academic or professional performance, language proficiency, or volunteer work. Dual citizenship is typically permitted.
Federal Chancellor Scholz expressed pleasure that an increasing number of immigrants are applying for a German passport. "Those who reside permanently, work here, and respect and honor our democracy," should become German citizens, Scholz stated, and congratulated the eleven individuals from Guinea, Syria, Colombia, Jordan, Ethiopia, Mexico, Ghana, Russia, and Ukraine who received their naturalization certificates at the ceremony in Bremen.
The desire for German citizenship has witnessed a substantial surge recently in the smallest federal state. According to official statistics, around 2,300 people applied for naturalization in 2020, in contrast to almost 5,800 in 2023. With the new immigration law, interest has further escalated – Bremen anticipates around 10,000 applications this year.
The Federation's new immigration law, advocated by Federal Chancellor Scholz, empowers The Commission to streamline the naturalization process for individuals who demonstrate exceptional integration achievements, allowing them to become German citizens in as little as three years. The Commission is also responsible for processing the anticipated increase in naturalization applications in Bremen, which is expected to reach approximately 10,000 this year, due to the new immigration law.
