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Germany Abolishes Fast-Track Citizenship: A Shift in Immigration Policy

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October 10, 2025

Germany Abolishes Fast-Track Citizenship: A Shift in Immigration Policy

In a significant policy shift, the German Bundestag has voted to scrap the fast-track citizenship law, a regulation introduced by the previous center-left government led by Olaf Scholz. The new decision marks a turn towards stricter immigration and integration rules under Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU).

The motion to end the fast-track law passed with overwhelming support — 450 members of parliament voted in favor, 134 opposed, and two abstained. The bill received rare cross-party support, including backing from the anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD), the largest opposition party in parliament.

Germany Abolishes Fast-Track Citizenship

Why Germany Removed the Fast-Track Citizenship Law

The fast-track citizenship policy was originally designed to make it easier for highly integrated immigrants to obtain German citizenship more quickly. Under the previous rules, foreign nationals who demonstrated exceptional integration — including strong language proficiency, active community participation, and economic stability — could apply for citizenship earlier than the standard requirement.

However, Chancellor Friedrich Merz made it a campaign promise to roll back several liberal immigration reforms passed by his predecessor. According to Merz and his CDU party, citizenship should mark the completion of integration, not the start of it.

Impact on Immigrants and Future Applicants

For many immigrants living and working in Germany, this change means longer waiting periods before they can apply for citizenship. The decision signals a more conservative approach to immigration, emphasizing integration, cultural adaptation, and national identity before naturalization.

Applicants will now need to meet the standard residency requirements without the benefit of accelerated processing, even if they demonstrate exceptional integration. This could slow down pathways to citizenship for skilled professionals and long-term residents who previously qualified under the fast-track system.

A New Direction for Germany’s Citizenship Policy

Germany’s decision to end the fast-track citizenship law reflects a broader shift in Europe’s immigration landscape, where countries are increasingly balancing the need for skilled labor with public concerns over integration and national identity.

While critics argue that the move may discourage talented migrants from settling in Germany, supporters believe it will strengthen the value of German citizenship by ensuring applicants are deeply rooted in the country’s culture and values.

Conclusion

Germany’s decision to abolish the fast-track citizenship law highlights a renewed focus on integration and long-term commitment. While the pathway to citizenship may now take longer, opportunities for education, work, and skill development in Germany remain strong.

With the right guidance and preparation, your German dream is still within reach — and Safeland International is here to help you achieve it every step of the way

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