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Retention of German citizenship upon naturalisation in another country

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Change in German citizenship law concerning applying for permission to retain German nationality in the case of persons living abroad

The German Bundestag passed new legislation to modernise citizenship law. Under the new legislation, multiple nationality is as of 27 June 2024 allowed across the board. What this means for you: You will no longer need to apply for a retention permit (as was necessary after Brexit until this date pursuant to section 25 of the Nationality Act). In fact: Retention permits are no longer issued.

The acquisition of a foreign nationality after this law came into force does no longer cause a loss of German nationality.

The law was published in the Federal Law Gazette on 26.03.2024 and came into force on 27.06.2024 (three months after publication).

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