Germany eliminates Fast-track citizenship program for Immigrants

BERLIN: Germany is set to terminate its fast-track citizenship program, a policy that allowed eligible immigrants to obtain citizenship in just three years.

The decision, reached in an agreement between the Christian Democratic Union (CDU)/Christian Social Union (CSU) alliance and the Social Democratic Party (SPD), marks a shift in the nation’s immigration landscape.

The Fast-track citizenship program required immigrants to demonstrate advanced German proficiency (C1-level) and strong integration indicators like community service or academic excellence.

Launched by the SPD, Greens, and Free Democratic Party in June last year, the program had been praised by immigrant communities but criticized by right-wing groups, including CDU and CSU.

The coalition also ruled out revoking citizenship from naturalised dual nationals who support extremist ideologies.

While this decision may disappoint many, immigrant citizenship Germany remains possible under the five-year citizenship track. This route requires intermediate German proficiency (B1-level) and continuous residency, providing a more achievable path for naturalization.

Germany’s new coalition government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has confirmed that dual nationality will continue to be permitted, along with measures to protect the citizenship of naturalized dual nationals.

However, discussions for Fast-track citizenship program are underway on potential policies to expel individuals who oppose democratic principles, targeting non-citizens rather than dual nationals.

Earlier, Germany’s Consulate General in Karachi implemented a new visa appointment system that is now in effect. Due to the high volume of applicants, direct appointment booking is no longer possible.

Instead, individuals must register on a waiting list, with appointments being allocated based on availability. Pakistani citizens are now required to register their names on this list, as per the mandatory procedure.

This change, as announced in a statement by the Consulate, applies to Schengen and long-term visa appointment bookings but does not include the Opportunity Card/Chancenkarte.