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Germany Abolishes Retention Permit in 2024 – Dual Citizenship Now Easier

The Beibehaltungsgenehmigung, or retention permit, was an official document that German citizens were required to obtain if they wished to acquire a non-European Union citizenship without losing their German nationality. Without this permit, acquiring another citizenship would automatically result in the loss of German citizenship.

The Major Shift: Abolition of the Beibehaltungsgenehmigung

On June 27, 2024, the Act on the Modernization of the Citizenship Law (Staatsangehörigkeitsmodernisierungsgesetz) came into effect in Germany. One of the most significant changes introduced by this law is the elimination of the requirement for a Beibehaltungsgenehmigung. German citizens can now acquire another citizenship without losing their German nationality. 

What Does This Mean for You?

• No More Bureaucracy: You no longer need to apply for a retention permit to keep your German citizenship when acquiring another.​
• Increased Flexibility: You can obtain the citizenship of your country of residence while maintaining your ties to Germany.​
  

Re-naturalization for Former Germans

For those who previously lost their German citizenship because they did not apply for a German Citizenship retention permit (Beibehaltungsgenehmigung), there is good news. Re-naturalization is possible, provided certain conditions are met, such as sufficient German language skills and proof of close ties to Germany. ​

Conclusion

The abolition of the Beibehaltungsgenehmigung significantly simplifies the process for German citizens abroad to acquire another citizenship without having to give up their German identity. This is a step towards a more modern and flexible citizenship law that aligns with the realities of a globalized world.