German Citizenship Law Reform Prompts Surge in Naturalization Applications from Turkish Community

Berlin, The Gulf Observer: The Turkish community in Germany anticipates a significant surge in naturalization applications, with approximately 50,000 individuals of Turkish origin expected to apply for citizenship in the coming years. Gökay Sofuoglu, the head of the Turkish Community in Germany organization, shared this projection, stating that in the long term, all 1.5 million Turkish citizens residing in Germany who do not yet possess German citizenship are likely to acquire dual citizenship.

This forecast follows the recent approval of a citizenship law reform by Germany’s lower house of parliament, the Bundestag. The reform aims to streamline the naturalization process and facilitate the holding of multiple nationalities. Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the significance of this reform, acknowledging the immense contributions of individuals who have lived and worked in Germany for decades.

The Turkish migration to Germany, initiated in the 1960s to aid in post-war reconstruction, has led to an estimated 3 million people of Turkish heritage residing in the country. Despite their longstanding presence, nearly half of this community, approximately 1.5 million individuals, still holds Turkish citizenship. The recent legislative changes are seen as a step towards recognizing and integrating those who have contributed significantly to German society.

Chancellor Scholz conveyed a message of inclusion, stating, “With the new citizenship law, we are saying to all those who have often lived and worked in Germany for decades, who abide by our laws, who are at home here: You belong to Germany.” The Turkish community’s response to the law reform signals a positive shift in their status, fostering a sense of belonging and recognition within the broader German society.