Following new record numbers for naturalizations, the CDU faction is advocating for stricter immigration and naturalization rules.
Alexander Throm, the faction’s interior policy spokesperson, told the “Welt” that they successfully managed to scrap the worst part of the “traffic light” coalition’s reforms regarding citizenship law: the “turbo naturalization” process, which allowed becoming a citizen after only three years. Regardless of this achievement, Throm argued that it would be beneficial to extend the required waiting period back to eight years and abolish the general allowance for dual citizenship.
Throm noted that these measures could not be implemented during the coalition negotiations. As an alternative, he suggested regulating the situation so that naturalization cannot occur directly from a protected status. Instead, foreign nationals would first need to earn a residency permit (“Niederlassungserlaubnis”). Only after gaining this permanent status would a naturalization waiting period begin. He pointed out that the requirements for a residency permit are higher than those for immediate naturalization, typically requiring proof of 60 months of contributions to the pension insurance.
Roman Poseck, the Interior Minister of Hesse, also championed legislative changes. While acknowledging that those who have lived in Germany for a long time and contributed to the country’s success deserve a path toward full identification, the CDU politician told the “Welt” that a rigorous review of every naturalization must also be conducted.
Poseck stressed that the issue of multi-state citizenship particularly requires attention. He argued that holding dual citizenship complicates integration, stating that a clear commitment to German citizenship cannot exist in the same way as with dual citizenship. Therefore, he recommended restricting it to exceptional cases.
