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New German Citizenship Rules 2025: What Expats Need to Know
German Citizenship Rules 2025
So, What's Changed in 2025?
If you're an expat living in Germany and thinking about becoming a citizen, 2025 has brought some important changes you should be aware of.
Last year, the German government passed a major reform that made it easier to apply for citizenship—cutting down the required years of residence and finally allowing dual citizenship. For many, it was a game changer.
But now, just a year later, the rules have been tweaked again.
Flashback: What the 2024 Reform Introduced
Let's rewind for a moment. In June 2024, Germany's Staatsangehörigkeitsmodernisierungsgesetz (try saying that three times fast!) came into effect. It brought some of the biggest updates to citizenship law in years.
Here's a quick recap of what changed:
- You could apply for citizenship after just 5 years of legal residence (down from 8). - There was even a 3-year fast-track option for people who were especially well integrated. - Dual citizenship became widely accepted, meaning you didn't have to give up your original nationality. - Babies born in Germany could now get citizenship if their parents had lived in the country legally for 5+ years.
It was a massive step toward modernization—and thousands of expats saw a real chance to finally call Germany "home" in every sense.
What Happened in 2025: The Fast-Track Path Was Scrapped
Well, not all parts of the 2024 reform stuck around.
In 2025, a new government coalition came into power—and one of the first things they did was roll back the 3-year fast-track option. Their concern? They felt it made the process too quick, especially for applicants still finding their footing in Germany.
Here's What That Means:
- As of October 2025, you need to live in Germany for at least 5 years before applying for citizenship. - The 3-year option is gone for now, unless your application was already in progress before the change. - Other updates—like dual citizenship and the 5-year minimum—are still in place.
Current Requirements to Become a German Citizen (as of October 2025)
1. Live in Germany for 5 Years (Legally)
The new baseline is simple: You need to have lived in Germany legally for five continuous years. That usually means holding a valid residence permit or visa during that time.
Some exceptions may apply (like if you're married to a German citizen or came as a refugee), but for most people, it's 5 years minimum.
2. Show You're Integrated
This isn't just about paperwork—it's about showing you're part of society.
To do that, you'll need to:
- Speak German at B1 level (that's "independent user" on the European scale) - Have a stable income or job - Know how life in Germany works—and that brings us to the next point...
3. Pass the Einbürgerungstest
The Einbürgerungstest, also known as the "Leben in Deutschland" test, is a multiple-choice quiz that checks how well you understand:
- German history - Politics and democracy - Basic rights and responsibilities - Everyday life and social values
It has 33 questions, and you need at least 17 correct answers to pass. Most questions are general, but a few are specific to the state (Bundesland) where you live.
Pro tip: You can practice online for free. There are apps and websites with all the official questions, so don't stress too much—just study a bit in advance.
4. Be Financially Independent & Have a Clean Record
Germany wants to see that you're stable and law-abiding. You'll need to:
- Show that you don't rely on social benefits like Bürgergeld - Prove your income or job situation is secure - Have no serious criminal convictions
You'll also be asked to declare your loyalty to Germany's democratic values.
5. Dual Citizenship? Now Allowed in Most Cases
This is a huge win for many people: You don't have to give up your original passport to become a German citizen—unless your home country doesn't allow dual nationality.
Before 2024, this was a major roadblock. Now, most people can apply without having to choose between two countries they care about.
How to Apply (And What You'll Need)
Ready to start the process? Here's how it works:
Gather your documents
You'll usually need:
- Passport - Residence permit - Proof of income or work - Rent agreement (Mietvertrag) - Certificate showing B1 German skills - Proof you passed the Einbürgerungstest
Apply through your local citizenship office
This is called the Einbürgerungsbehörde. Look up the one responsible for your district.
Pay the fee
Usually around €255 per adult.
Wait
Be patient—processing times vary, and demand is high since the law changed. It could take several months, depending on where you live.
Special Cases and Questions You Might Have
What if I applied under the 3-year rule?
If you submitted your application before October 2025, you might still be eligible—check with your local office.
My child was born in Germany. Are they a citizen?
If you've lived here legally for 5+ years, yes! Your child may automatically get German citizenship.
Do I need to renounce my old citizenship?
In most cases, no. But some countries may still require it—check your home country's rules.
Final Thoughts: Germany's Citizenship Path Is Still Open
While the fast-track option is no longer available, the path to German citizenship is still more accessible than it was just a few years ago.
Here's what hasn't changed:
- You only need 5 years of residency - You can keep your original nationality - The Einbürgerungstest is manageable with a little prep - Integration, language, and financial stability remain key
So if you've made Germany your home and want to make it official, now's a great time to start. Just plan ahead, gather your paperwork, and take it one step at a time.
Related Resources:
- Practice the Einbürgerungstest - Take the Test Simulator - Learn Key Vocabulary