Prolonged Wait Times Plague German Citizenship Applications in Baden-Württemberg
Introduction
The recent amendment to Germany’s Nationality Act has triggered a surge in naturalization applications in Baden-Württemberg, leading to a significant increase in processing times. Applicants now face a wait of over two years, despite fulfilling all eligibility criteria, according to a response from the Ministry of the Interior to an inquiry from the Free Democratic Party (FDP) in the state parliament.
Amended Citizenship Law
The law, passed by the Social Democratic Party, the Green Party, and the FDP, reduced the residency requirement for naturalization from eight years to five. However, applicants must still demonstrate financial independence and meet other conditions.
Causes of Extended Processing Times
The Ministry of the Interior attributes the excessive processing times to the high influx of refugees in 2015 and 2016, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic. "Many refugees have fulfilled the legal requirements for naturalization since 2021. This has led to a significant increase in naturalization applications," the ministry stated in a document.
Impact of the Pandemic
During the pandemic, in-person appointments were suspended. This backlog is now being addressed, but the gradual processing is contributing to delays.
Government Response
The state government is providing financial compensation to local authorities in 2025 and 2026 to support the processing of applications. However, the counties and cities estimate that the allocated 4.5 million euros is insufficient to address the increased workload.
Untätigkeit Klagen on the Rise
The extended processing times have prompted numerous complaints and lawsuits against the authorities for inaction (Untätigkeitsklagen). Applicants are allegedly filing complaints even when their applications are not close to being processed, hoping to prioritize their cases.
Regional Variations
Processing times vary across the state. In the Esslingen district, applications tripled compared to the previous year, resulting in lawsuits and further strain on the naturalization authority. The Bodenseekreis district has suspended processing new applications until the end of 2024 to prevent further backlogs.
Varying Practices in Cities
Cities, however, continue to accept new applications. Some implement screening mechanisms, such as phone or in-person consultations, to filter out applications that may not meet the requirements.
Calls for Action from FDP
Julia Goll, the internal policy spokesperson for the FDP in the state parliament, has called for timely processing of applications. "The current excessive duration of 18 months is unacceptable for a country that benefits from controlled immigration to its labor market," she said.
Conclusion
The influx of naturalization applications in Baden-Württemberg has overwhelmed the authorities, leading to lengthy processing times. While measures are being taken to address the backlog, the government and local authorities are struggling to meet the increased demand. Applicants face extended wait times and frustration over the protracted process, with some resorting to legal action to expedite their cases.
