Abstract
The third millennium witnesses the introduction of a new naturalization law in Germany. Passed by both chambers of parliament in May 1999, the law can be interpreted as a legislative change in Germany's national identity. From January 1, 2000 on, not only German ancestry but also birth on German soil will qualify for the acquisition of German citizenship. The change is remarkable, even though permanent residency of at least one parent is an additional precondition to acquire German citizenship and, in the case of dual citizenship, a final choice of one citizenship has to be made by the age of 23. The naturalization of foreigners also became easier: eight years of residency instead of the formerly required ten will enable a foreigner to become German. Still criticized by the left of the governing Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the Green Party, as well as by the opposition Party of Democratic Socialism (PDS), these changes in naturalization law nevertheless are the most notable ones in twentieth century Germany.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
