Heilbronn breaks naturalization record: 1000 passports in just one year!

Heilbronn breaks naturalization record: 1000 passports in just one year!

A new record for naturalization in Heilbronn: On October 8, 2023, the city announced the 1,000th naturalization of the year, making the city a pioneer in integration policy. In 2024, a total of 786 citizens with foreign roots received a German passport. The numbers speak for themselves - in the Heilbronn district there were already 1,072 naturalizations in 2023, while in 2024 there were still 725 Agree reported.

An example of successful integration is the 30-year-old Albanian Sigida Hajdari, who came to Germany in 2013 without knowing any German. Today she has graduated from high school and works as a medical assistant. Mayor Harry Mergel presented her with the naturalization certificate and acknowledged her path to integration.

Changes in the naturalization law

Recent changes to nationality law, which came into force in June 2024, have simplified the naturalization process. Naturalization is now possible after five years of residence and in special cases even after three years. The withdrawal of the three-year deadline for naturalization was also decided on October 8, 2023, which makes naturalization attractive for many, especially since the possibility of retaining previous citizenship increases the incentive.

171 naturalizations from Syria are already pending for 2025. Numerous citizens from other countries such as Turkey, Kosovo, Iraq and Russia are also to be naturalized. A total of 130 Turks, 93 Kosovars, 58 Iraqis and 51 Russians are on the list this year. This is intended to further promote the integration of immigrants.

Impact and challenges

The city of Heilbronn has already reacted and created three new positions to cope with the rush at the immigration authorities. These measures cost around 280,000 euros and show the city's commitment to smooth and rapid processing of applications. In the Heilbronn district, 6.5 new positions were created.

But not everything goes smoothly. Fake language test certificates were discovered in several German cities, leading to calls to suspend naturalization procedures. However, no irregularities were found in Heilbronn, unlike in some other federal states. Opinions in the local council on naturalization policy are divided. Some members are calling for a longer integration period, while others regret the eased deadline and insist on a language skills test.

How does the naturalization process work?

The naturalization process consists of several steps. First, interested parties should carry out a quick check to check the relevant requirements. An application must then be submitted, for which consultations usually take place by telephone. You receive the application documents from the responsible nationality authority. When naturalizing, personal interviews and language tests are required, which challenges but also promotes integration.

Naturalization costs 255 euros for adults, while minor children only have to pay 51 euros for joint naturalization. There are fee reduction options for families with low incomes or multiple children. The requirements are also clear: proof of sufficient German language skills (level B1) as well as knowledge of the legal system in Germany are mandatory.

Overall, it shows that the city of Heilbronn is on the right track, despite challenges and mixed opinions in the local council. The commitment to rapid and fair naturalization remains high. Information and support is also available on the website Federal Office for Migration and Refugees and with local authorities. Good integration is important to everyone!