German Coalition to Abolish "Turbo" Citizenship Path, Tightening Immigration Policies

BERLIN (April 10, 2025) – Germany's incoming coalition government, comprised of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Christian Social Union (CSU), and the Social Democrats (SPD), has announced plans to reverse key citizenship reforms enacted by the previous administration. A central change will be the abolishment of the "turbo naturalization" provision, which allowed highly integrated immigrants to apply for citizenship after only three years of residency. This move signals a broader shift towards a more restrictive immigration policy under the leadership of Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz.

The decision to scrap the fast-track citizenship option comes after weeks of coalition negotiations following February's elections. Merz, leader of the CDU, campaigned on stricter immigration controls and economic reforms. The coalition agreement, unveiled Wednesday, reflects a compromise between the CDU/CSU's desire for tighter immigration policies and the SPD's push to maintain certain aspects of the previous reforms, such as the right to dual citizenship.

Reversing the "Turbo Naturalization"

The "turbo naturalization" provision, introduced in June 2024 as part of a sweeping reform of Germany's citizenship laws, enabled immigrants with exceptional integration – demonstrated through C1-level German proficiency and "special achievements" in work, education, or society – to apply for citizenship after just three years. The CDU/CSU had consistently criticized this policy, arguing that it devalued German citizenship and allowed individuals to naturalize before fully integrating into German society.

"The so-called 'turbo naturalization' after three years won't be taking place anymore," Merz stated on Wednesday. "Naturalization will only be possible after five years."

While the three-year path will be eliminated, the standard five-year residency requirement for naturalization, reduced from eight years in the previous reform, will remain in place. This means that most immigrants will still be eligible to apply for citizenship after five years of legal residency in Germany, provided they meet other requirements such as language proficiency, financial stability, and a commitment to Germany's democratic values.

Broader Immigration Policy Changes

The abolishment of the "turbo naturalization" is just one component of a broader set of changes to Germany's immigration policies outlined in the coalition agreement. Merz has vowed to take a "new course in migration policy," with the aim of "largely ending irregular migration."

Other proposed measures include:

• Increased border controls: Implementing stricter controls at national borders and returning asylum seekers at the border.
• Intensified deportations: Increasing the number of deportations of rejected asylum seekers.
• Ending voluntary admission programs: Discontinuing programs that allow for the voluntary admission of migrants.
• Suspending family reunification: Restricting the ability of migrants to bring family members to Germany.
• Nationwide language tests: Introducing language tests for four-year-old children to identify those with language deficiencies and provide early intervention.
• Increased surveillance: Expanding digital surveillance capabilities of security authorities.

These measures reflect a growing concern among some segments of the German population about the level of immigration and its impact on society. Recent opinion polls have shown a decline in support for Merz's Christian Democrats, potentially contributing to the push for a tougher stance on immigration.

Dual Citizenship Remains

Despite the tightening of some immigration policies, the coalition agreement preserves the right to dual citizenship, a key achievement of the previous government's reforms. This means that individuals who become German citizens will not be required to renounce their original citizenship, and German citizens will be able to acquire other citizenships without losing their German nationality.

The decision to maintain dual citizenship reflects a compromise between the CDU/CSCSU and the SPD, with the SPD strongly advocating for its preservation. The dual citizenship provision, which came into effect in June 2024, is particularly important for many immigrants and their families, as it allows them to maintain ties to their countries of origin while fully integrating into German society.

Implications and Reactions

The changes to Germany's citizenship and immigration policies are likely to have a significant impact on both immigrants and German society as a whole. The abolishment of the "turbo naturalization" may discourage some highly skilled and integrated immigrants from seeking German citizenship, while the stricter border controls and deportation policies could lead to increased hardship for asylum seekers and undocumented migrants.

The move has already drawn criticism from some who argue that it sends a negative signal to immigrants and undermines Germany's efforts to attract skilled workers. Others have praised the changes, arguing that they are necessary to ensure the successful integration of immigrants and to address concerns about the impact of immigration on German society.

The implementation of these policies will be closely watched in the coming months and years, as Germany navigates the complex challenges of immigration and integration in an increasingly interconnected world. The new government's approach will likely shape the future of German society and its relationship with the global community.

Looking Ahead

The draft coalition deal requires approval from relevant party bodies and delegates. The Social Democrats plan to hold a membership-wide vote, while the Christian Democrats will decide through a small party conference. If approved, the German parliament could elect Merz as the new chancellor on May 7. The coming months will be crucial in determining the full scope and impact of these policy changes, as Germany seeks to balance its economic needs with concerns about social cohesion and national identity.