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A remarkable milestone was reached in 2024 as over 21,000 individuals were naturalized in Berlin, according to recent figures released by local authorities. This record-breaking number reflects Berlin’s ongoing commitment to fostering a multicultural society and integrating new citizens into its vibrant urban landscape.
The 2024 naturalization figures show a significant increase compared to previous years, highlighting the city’s continuous efforts to streamline naturalization processes and provide a welcoming environment for immigrants from diverse backgrounds.
A Diverse Mosaic of New Citizens
The individuals naturalized in Berlin represent a rich tapestry of cultures and nationalities, embodying the city’s status as a global metropolis. The naturalization ceremony, often described as a pivotal moment in the lives of the new citizens, underscores Berlin’s dedication to inclusion and equal opportunities for all.
Commitment to Integration
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Berlin’s government has implemented numerous initiatives to facilitate integration, including language courses, civic education programs, and community support networks. These efforts aim to ensure that newly naturalized citizens can fully participate in all aspects of civic, economic, and cultural life.
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Start Learning GermanNew Citizenship Law Leading to Increase in Number of Citizenship Applications
In June this year, authorities in Germany announced the introduction of the New Citizenship Law, allowing applicants to acquire citizenship within a shorter period.
In addition, based on the new law, internationals interested in obtaining citizenship in Germany are not required to give up on their previous nationality.
Announcing the new law, the Minister of Interior of Germany, Nancy Faeser, said that all foreign nationals in Germany who share the same values and meet the required conditions would be able to acquire citizenship more quickly.
However, back then, Faeser said that there would be no tolerance for those who show antisemitic, racist or other behaviours of this kind.
In October this year, a spokesman for the Office for Migration said that about 6,000 naturalisation applications had been submitted in Hamburg since June 27, when the new naturalisation law took effect.
Berlin’s Citizenship Revolution: Over 21,000 Naturalizations in 2024, Paving the Way for Economic Integration
- In 2024, Berlin granted citizenship to over 21,000 people.
- The State Office for Immigration (LEA) created Department S to handle naturalizations more efficiently.
- Department S centralized twelve district offices, speeding up the process.
- LEA now processes 3,000 naturalizations each month.
- The LEA plans to reach 40,000 naturalizations in 2025, hiring 40 more staff to meet this goal.
- Berlin switched to online applications and digital checklists, streamlining procedures.
- Applicants now only need to visit the office once to collect their certificates.
- Germany’s new citizenship reforms, effective June 2024, allow dual citizenship and reduce residency requirements.
- Most naturalized individuals are young, with an average age of 29.3 years.
- Many new citizens are former Syrians who arrived during the 2014-2016 refugee crisis.
Berlin’s naturalization program reflects Germany’s effort to integrate long-term residents and boost its economy.
