Dual Citizenship in Germany Since 2024

Since June 27, 2024, dual citizenship is generally permitted in Germany. The new nationality law eliminates the requirement to give up your previous citizenship. This is one of the biggest changes in German naturalization law in decades; and affects millions of people.

What changed?

Until June 2024, most naturalization applicants had to give up their previous citizenship to become German. While there were exceptions (e.g., for EU citizens or when the home country didn't allow renunciation), for the majority it meant: give up one citizenship to get the other.

Since June 27, 2024, this has changed. The new law permits multiple nationalities for everyone. You no longer have to give up your previous citizenship when you naturalize in Germany.

Who benefits?

The change particularly affects:

• Turkish citizens: The largest group that previously had to give up Turkish citizenship for German citizenship
• Citizens from the Western Balkans: Bosnia, Serbia, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and others
• People from the Middle East: Many countries make renunciation difficult or impossible
• All non-EU citizens: Who previously had to give up their citizenship as a general rule

What about the fast-track naturalization?

The June 2024 law also introduced accelerated naturalization after 3 years (instead of the regular 5 years). This so-called "Turbo-Einbürgerung" was, however, abolished in October 2025. The regular residency requirement is now 5 years again.

Requirements at a glance

Even with dual citizenship, the usual naturalization requirements apply:

• 5 years of lawful residence in Germany
• German language skills at B1 level
• Einbürgerungstest passed (17 out of 33 questions correct)
• Self-sufficient livelihood (no social benefits)
• No criminal record (with exceptions for minor offenses)
• Commitment to the Basic Law and the free democratic order

Frequently asked questions

Can I use both passports at the same time?

Yes. You can hold both citizenships simultaneously and use both passports. When entering Germany, however, you must show your German passport.

Does this apply retroactively?

Anyone who gave up their citizenship in the past to become German cannot automatically get their old citizenship back. The law only applies to new naturalizations from June 2024 onward.

Do I still need to take the Einbürgerungstest?

Yes. Dual citizenship does not exempt you from the Einbürgerungstest. You still need to correctly answer at least 17 out of 33 questions.