Dual citizenship is not permitted in Germany, yet. However, recently The Local reported exclusively that the Bundestag would discuss a new draft bill that would allow dual German citizenships. Migrant workers who don’t have EU nationality could be naturalized as German citizens without sacrificing their other nationalities.
How to get German citizenship?
You can become a German citizen if you gain your German citizenship in one of the following ways:
By birthright (born by non-German parents in Germany).
If your ancestor was born in Germany.
By naturalization (after living in Germany for eight years).
How can I become naturalized in Germany?
You need to live in Germany for at least eight consecutive years with a valid residence permit before applying for citizenship. You need to be able to speak German fluently (at least B1) and have sufficient financial resources to support yourself and/or your dependents.
If the new law is passed, you could apply for German citizenship after only five years of living in Germany.
Do I get German citizenship if I marry a German citizen?
If you marry a German citizen, you aren’t automatically granted German citizenship. However, spouses of Germans may apply for citizenship by naturalization much earlier than others: usually after just two years of marriage. Learn more about marriage in Germany for non-EU citizens here!
Getting German dual citizenship when living in another country
If you want to obtain a second nationality besides your German one, you need to ask for permission from the German government first. You need to fill forms and hand in certain documents. You also need to give concrete reasons for why you are living in another country and how it benefits you. You can find the steps to follow here!
Benefits of German Dual Citizenship
- Having dual German Citizenship, you could enjoy the following:
- Having access to over 180 visa-free countries.
- Being able to live in any EU country.
- Being able to live and study anywhere in Europe.
- Being protected by two different countries’ embassies.
- Being able to start businesses in both countries.