The Turkish Community in Germany is expecting a surge in naturalization applications from people of Turkish descent who do not yet hold German citizenship. The recent approval of the new dual citizenship law in Germany has paved the way for an estimated 50,000 individuals to apply for naturalization in the coming years.
With the new law making it easier for foreigners to hold dual citizenship and shortening the path to citizenship, the German parliament has taken a significant step towards inclusivity and integration. However, concerns have been raised about the processing of the expected high volume of applications.
According to Gökay Sofuoglu, the head of the Turkish Community in Germany, the long-term expectation is that all citizens of Turkish origin in Germany who do not have German citizenship will eventually apply for dual citizenship. He also expressed concern about the authorities’ ability to handle the influx of applications.
Deutsche Welle reports that approximately 3 million people of Turkish heritage live in Germany, with around 1.5 million still holding Turkish citizenship. The passing of the new law was met with a statement from German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, emphasizing the country’s desire to integrate long-term residents who have contributed to German society.
The new law is expected to result in a record number of foreigners being granted German citizenship in the coming years. Eligibility criteria have been revised to allow foreign nationals to apply for citizenship after residing in the country for five years, down from the previous requirement of eight years. Additionally, exceptionally well-integrated applicants will be able to gain citizenship after just three years.
The surge in naturalization applications is not limited to those of Turkish descent, as a significant percentage of people with migrant backgrounds in Germany are also expected to apply for citizenship. This change in citizenship laws reflects Germany’s commitment to embracing multiculturalism and honoring the contributions of long-term residents.
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