With the reform of nationality law, something fundamental has changed on the subject of dual citizenship. Since 27 June 2024, multiple nationality is generally permitted. This article explains in general terms what the reform changed regarding multiple nationality. Whether special features apply in a specific case is determined solely by the competent naturalization authority.
What has changed
Before the reform, one's previous nationality generally had to be given up upon naturalization — apart from certain statutory exceptions. This obligation has been removed with the reform.
Since 27 June 2024, the following applies:
- Giving up one's previous nationality is generally no longer required.
- Multiple nationality has become the standard case. Anyone who acquires German nationality can, as a rule, keep their previous one.
Dual citizenship is therefore no longer the exception requiring justification, but the statutory standard case.
What this means in practice
The reform affects both naturalization in Germany and — according to the respective rules — the acquisition of an additional nationality by Germans. For naturalization, this means: renouncing one's nationality of origin is generally no longer a requirement.
The reform of 27 June 2024 changed further points as well, such as the shortening of the general residence period from eight to five years. On the subject of multiple nationality, the central innovation is the removal of the obligation to give up one's nationality.
What the German state cannot control
Whether a previous nationality can actually be kept does not depend on German law alone. The law of the country of origin also plays a role — for example, whether it recognizes the acquisition of an additional nationality or whether it attaches conditions to a release from nationality.
If the country of origin attaches unreasonable conditions to the release, an individual case assessment can still apply. Whether and how a previous nationality continues to exist therefore also depends on the rules of the respective country of origin. A generally valid list of countries cannot be derived from this; the relevant foreign provisions are decisive.
Who assesses the requirements
This article reflects the German legal situation in general terms. Whether multiple nationality exists in a specific case, or whether an exception applies, is assessed and decided solely by the competent nationality authority — in questions concerning the law of the country of origin, where applicable, in coordination with the authorities there.
Classification: This article reflects the general legal situation. Whether the requirements named apply in your case is determined solely by the competent naturalization authority. For a non-binding initial assessment, use the eligibility check; for legal questions about your case, please contact a law firm.