Waiting times for naturalization in the Rems-Murr district are exploding!

Waiting times for naturalization in the Rems-Murr district are exploding!

In the Rems-Murr district, waiting times for applying for German citizenship have increased significantly. The increase in applications for naturalization in recent years shows that demand for a German passport is high. In 2020 there were still 755 applications, but by 2024 the number had risen to an impressive 2,397. This development is due not least to the changes in the Citizenship Modernization Act of 2024, which now makes naturalization much easier. Instead of the previous eight years, applicants can now submit an application after just five years of residence. In addition, the new law allows people to retain their original nationality, which brings relief to many, explains Stuttgart News.

Rush for naturalization

In 2024, Syrian citizens made up the largest group with 246 applications, followed by Turkish citizens with 93 and applicants from Kosovo with 54. In total, naturalized people in 2024 came from 67 different countries. This diversity reflects the multicultural society in the Rems-Murr district. In view of this development, the district office is planning a new concept to shorten the processing times for naturalization applications. It remains to be seen how effective these measures will be.

A naturalization ceremony at the Waiblingen vocational school center recently attracted over 120 guests. The first state official Peter Zaar gave the opening speech and presented a naturalization certificate to a proud participant. Those present celebrated the new phase of their lives together by singing the German national anthem and then enjoying a buffet.

Important requirements for naturalization

Despite the easier conditions, there are clear requirements that applicants must meet. Subsistence may not be secured through benefits according to SGB II (citizen's benefit) or SGB XII (assistance with living expenses). This means that the income must be sustainable, which means that pension insurance should have been paid into. In addition, the average net income must exceed the total needs of your own community of needs, which includes the applicant, spouse and minor children. These requirements are explained in detail on the district office website: Rems-Murr circle.

Nevertheless, there are also exceptions, for example for guest workers who arrived before certain deadlines. People who have worked full-time for at least 20 months in the last two years can also be naturalized under easier circumstances.

The need for clear regulation and support in these matters is becoming increasingly urgent given the increasing number of applications. Political decision-makers are required to develop strategies to make the naturalization process more efficient and to further promote integration. The Rems-Murr district looks to the coming years with hope and challenges.