Germany Allows Dual Nationality for Citizens Born There

Germany has eliminated the obligation for individuals born on its soil to choose between their German citizenship and any other nationality they may hold from birth. Previously, individuals who acquired German citizenship through jus soli were required to opt out of one nationality upon reaching a certain age.

The new law allows those born in Germany, who also hold another nationality through their parents or country of origin, to retain both citizenships without making a choice. This reform removes a significant burden on children of foreign nationals, who previously could only hold dual nationality temporarily.

The change specifically applies to individuals who acquired multiple nationalities at birth in Germany and does not affect naturalisation applicants or those acquiring citizenship through other means. The reform aligns Germany's approach to jus soli citizenship with several other European countries that permit dual or multiple nationality without an opt-out requirement.