Ghanaians Jubilate As Germany Approves Dual Citizenship Policy

In a landmark decision from the upper house of the Federal Council (Bundesrat), foreigners legally residing in Germany seeking dual citizenship have received resounding approval.

This legislative breakthrough not only paves the way for a more inclusive citizenship policy but also brings about a notable reduction in waiting times for naturalization.

The votes passed on Friday, February 2, 202, have been particularly welcomed within the Ghanaian community in Germany, where a sense of jubilation and anticipation now permeates. Whatsup News can report that many Ghanaians, who currently hold exclusive German citizenship, are eager to embrace this opportunity and secure an additional Ghanaian passport.

The prospect of dual citizenship has long been a subject of unsuccessful advocacy among Ghanaians in Germany, and this recent development marks a significant milestone in addressing their concerns.

Of paramount significance is the elimination of hurdles that Ghanaians face when seeking Ghanaian visas for their trips back to their homeland.

The newfound flexibility offered by dual citizenship is poised to strengthen the cultural and familial ties that Ghanaians maintain with their roots.

Ghanaians in Germany holding Ghanaian passports would however have to wait for some three months before they can naturalise as both Germans and Ghanaians.

This delay is attributed to the necessary coordination among state-level agencies as they finalise the procedures for facilitating German-Ghanaian dual citizenship.

This legislative change aligns with Germany’s sweeping strategy of easing immigration policies.

For instance, the “Chancen Karte,” introduced in June 2023, is one such legislation that makes it significantly easier for skilled professionals from Africa and non-EU countries to secure residence and work permits in Germany.

Ironically, as Germany embarks on this progressive immigration route, there is an ominous rise of far-right political groups in the country, many of whom adopt an anti-immigrant stance.

This adds a layer of complexity to the evolving socio-political landscape in Germany as it balances a more inclusive approach to immigration and the challenges posed by the resurgence of far-right ideologies.