Naturalization in Germany: Why 2027 Could Be a Key Year for Ukrainians

Germany is preparing for a record number of citizenship applications from Ukrainians in 2027. Find out what naturalization conditions are in effect today, who can apply for a German passport, and what difficulties may arise during the application process

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Germany is recording a record increase in the number of new citizens. After a large-scale legislative reform, the naturalization procedure has become much more accessible to foreigners, and the authorities and municipalities are already preparing for a potential increase in the number of applications from Ukrainians in the coming years.

According to German media, in 2025, more than 300 thousand people received German citizenship, which was the highest figure in the country's history. Experts predict that the next big wave of applicants may fall precisely in 2027, when many Ukrainians will reach the required period of residence to submit documents for naturalization.

Why has it become easier to obtain German citizenship?

In 2024, changes to the citizenship legislation came into force in Germany, which significantly simplified the naturalization procedure for foreigners. Among the key innovations:

- The minimum period of legal residence for obtaining citizenship has been reduced from 8 to 5 years;

- An even faster procedure may be applied for individuals with special achievements and a high level of integration;

- Multiple citizenship is officially allowed, so most applicants no longer need to renounce their previous passport;

- Certain administrative procedures for processing applications have been simplified.

These changes have been one of the main factors in the sharp increase in the number of naturalizations in the country.

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Why could 2027 be a turning point for Ukrainians?

After the outbreak of a full-scale war, thousands of Ukrainians arrived in Germany in the spring of 2022 and received temporary protection status in accordance with the EU Temporary Protection Directive.

Since most Ukrainians settled in the country in 2022, in 2027 they will have reached the five-year residence period required to apply for citizenship under the general procedure.

In addition, the European Union has extended the temporary protection for Ukrainians until March 4, 2027. After the completion of this mechanism, many people will look for long-term legal grounds for residence in the country. For some Ukrainians, citizenship may be the most reliable way to consolidate their status in Germany.

Ukraine and Germany are preparing an update to the double taxation agreement, which should simplify business operations, attract new investments and make tax rules clearer, more details at the link.

What advantages do Ukrainians have during integration in Germany?

Experts note that Ukrainians are in a somewhat more favorable situation compared to some previous waves of migration.

Among the main factors:

- Ukrainians received the right to employment immediately after obtaining temporary protection;

- Significant part of citizens has already integrated into the German labor market;

- Many families have stable incomes and pay taxes;

- Ukrainian children are actively integrating through the education system;

- There is no need to go through classic asylum procedures, which can take years.

At the same time, for successful naturalization, applicants must meet other requirements, including a sufficient level of German language proficiency, knowledge of the basics of the country's legal system, and the ability to support themselves without constant dependence on social assistance.

Read our previous article to find out how much you need to earn to live comfortably in Germany.

Are there any difficulties in obtaining German citizenship?

Despite positive forecasts, legal discussions around the future naturalization of Ukrainians are ongoing.

Different federal states and municipalities in Germany may interpret certain aspects of the stay of persons with temporary protection status differently. In particular, the question of how the period of residence under this status will be taken into account when considering applications for citizenship is being discussed.

It is also worth considering that each case is considered individually. The mere fact of living in Germany for five years does not guarantee automatic receipt of a passport.

Find more ways to legalize after the cancellation of temporary protection in Germany in this article.

What should Ukrainians do now?

Experts advise not to postpone preparations for possible citizenship.

To increase the chances of successful naturalization, you should:

- Learn German and confirm your knowledge with official certificates;

- Maintain continuous legal residence status;

- Accumulate documents confirming employment and tax payment;

- Monitor changes in German migration legislation;

- If necessary, receive professional legal advice on your individual situation.

It is expected that during 2026–2027, the issue of naturalization of Ukrainians will become one of the key areas of German migration policy, and local authorities are already preparing for a significant burden on the departments that consider applications for citizenship.

Moving to Germany, extending legal status, obtaining a residence permit or preparing for citizenship - all these procedures require a careful approach and knowledge of current legislation.

Visit Ukraine lawyers provide professional assistance to Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad, supporting clients on migration, visa and documentary issues. Specialists will help you assess your prospects, prepare the necessary package of documents and avoid common mistakes when interacting with government agencies.

Get individual advice today and confidently plan your future in Germany.

Reminder! The path to citizenship in Europe in 2026 has become much more complicated - and it's not just about the years of residence. We have already told you in which countries mandatory civic tests and integration exams are in force, how the requirements have changed in France, Poland, the Czech Republic, Germany and other countries, and what you must check before submitting documents for naturalization.

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