Statistically, around 168,500 foreigners obtained citizenship in 2022. The statistics show that the number of naturalizations increased by almost 30% compared to the previous year. This is mainly due to the fact that the Syrians who arrived in 2015 had reached the required residence periods (approx. 29,000 naturalizations were from Syrians). It is worth noting that an above-average number of Syrian citizenship applicants were naturalized due to "special integration achievements", i.e. they were able to apply after six years instead of eight.

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Advantages of the German Citizenship

Obtaining citizenship is the final step on the path to German permanent residence. With naturalization, integration is complete and the applicant becomes a citizen of Germany forever. If the citizenship procedure is successfully completed, the foreigner receives a German passport in addition to the citizenship certificate. The German passport is one of the most valuable in the world, as it allows visa-free entry to 191 countries around the world. Only the Japanese passport (193 countries), the passport from Singapore (193 countries) and the South Korean passport (192 countries) allow more worldwide mobility (as of 2023).

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When you obtain a German passport, you not only acquire German nationality, but also European citizenship, i.e. you become a European citizen. This results in numerous advantages: 

• European freedom of movement

• the right to vote in the European Parliament

• increased diplomatic protection abroad

• Europe-wide social benefits and ban on discrimination

• easier family reunification possible

• possibility to apply for social benefits without encountering residence problems

• no more bureaucracy

• extended protection through German and European fundamental rights

For most people, the right to freedom of movement in Europe in particular will probably be a very significant advantage of obtaining German citizenship. In this respect, the German passport enables free travel throughout the Schengen area and even the opportunity to work and live in other countries on a long-term basis. Certain rights are also only available to German and European citizens, which can also be an important advantage. This applies, for example, to the right of residence for family reunification, which can be applied for much more easily with German citizenship. Another advantage is that German citizens can claim social assistance without any problems, whereas social assistance is generally not suitable for foreigners to secure their livelihood. Finally, certain basic rights are only available to Germans. In this respect, it is a clear advantage that the Basic Law and European fundamental rights protect German citizens more than foreigners.