On Wednesday, the Germany cabinet on Wednesday approved programs to ease the way to citizenship for immigrants and authorize more individuals to have dual nationality.
Under the suggested new laws, which must still be approved by parliament, naturalization in Germany would be potential after five years rather than eight years as now.
Those who are exceptionally well-integrated and have very good German vocabulary skills will be able to acquire nationality after three years.
Forthcoming new residents will have to demonstrate they are not dependent on state support, although the state will have exceptions.
The new law will also unlock the gate for more individuals to become dual nationals, including those from Germany’s large Turkish community.
The path to citizenship has remained difficult for many immigrants from Turkey and other nations who came to Germany as so-called “guest workers” in the second half of the 20th century.
However, the right to dual nationality has been limited to EU and Swiss citizens at present.
Berlin is also trying to draw more foreign workers to promote critical labor shortages and is ready to make itself a more attractive destination.
