Germany has recently enacted significant changes to its nationality laws, which allow for dual nationality. The changes also streamline the process for non-EU nationals to obtain German citizenship, including reducing the pathway to naturalisation as a German citizenship from 8 years to 5 years (or even 3 years in some circumstances).
Prior to the changes, German law did not generally allow dual citizenship for German nationals, save for EU and Swiss nationals and limited exceptional circumstances relating to ‘special hardships’. Where a German national wished to take up another nationality, for example British nationality, they would usually be required to renounce their German citizenship.
As of 27 June 2024, Germany now allows for multiple citizenships in principle for the first time. This has significant implications for German nationals residing in the UK who were previously concerned about the implications on their existing nationality should they obtain British citizenship. Previously, many German nationals with permanent residence in the UK would opt not to naturalise as a British citizen to protect their Germany nationality.
UK nationality law does allow for dual citizenship, and the Home Office does not require you to surrender your existing nationality if you become a British citizen. German citizens based in the UK may now wish to revisit the exciting prospect of obtaining British citizenship.
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s UK Inbound Team are highly experienced in advising on nationality law and policies. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
Gherson only advises in connection with UK immigration and nationality law and cannot advise on matters concerning the laws of other countries. Gherson cannot therefore accept any responsibility for any issues, which may arise with respect to your nationality of origin as a result of your application for British citizenship and we strongly recommend that you consult the national authorities of your country of origin (for example the Embassy or High Commission) and, if you still have any doubts, seek independent legal advice from lawyers competent to advise on the citizenship regulations of that country.
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