For many expats living in Germany, obtaining German citizenship — Einbürgerung — is a long-term goal that represents security, belonging and full participation in German society. So when a major political party calls for making the process harder, it is worth paying close attention. Ahead of elections in Saxony-Anhalt, the AfD's vice president in the state has publicly called for Germany's naturalization knowledge test to be made more difficult. While this is currently a political proposal rather than an enacted law, it reflects a growing debate about the standards and requirements for becoming a German citizen — a debate that could shape policy in the future.
According to reports, the AfD's vice president in Saxony-Anhalt has called for making Germany's knowledge test for naturalization — a key step in the Einbürgerung process — more difficult. The call comes ahead of contentious elections in the state and is consistent with the AfD's broader stance on tightening immigration and citizenship policy.
The AfD, which is Germany's main far-right opposition party, has consistently advocated for stricter criteria for obtaining German citizenship. This latest proposal focuses specifically on the knowledge test, which currently covers topics such as German history, law, society and democratic values. The party argues, according to available reports, that the bar should be raised.
It is important to note that this is a political demand, not a legislative change. The AfD is currently in opposition at the federal level, and changes to naturalization law require parliamentary majorities.
Germany's naturalization knowledge test (Einbürgerungstest) is administered by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF). It consists of questions about German law, history, society and the political system. Applicants must pass this test as part of the overall Einbürgerung process, which also includes requirements around residency duration, language proficiency, financial self-sufficiency and a clean criminal record.
Recent reforms to Germany's citizenship law — which came into effect in 2024 — made some aspects of naturalization more accessible, for example by reducing the minimum residency period in certain cases. Any future tightening of the test would need to go through the full legislative process.
Even though the AfD's proposal has not been adopted into law, political discourse around citizenship requirements matters for the expat community for several reasons:
For expats currently on the path to citizenship, the best approach is to continue following BAMF's official guidance and to monitor any legislative developments through official channels.
Based on available information, this is currently a political proposal made by the AfD's vice president in Saxony-Anhalt — not an enacted change. The existing Einbürgerungstest administered by BAMF remains in place. Always check BAMF's official website for the most current information on test requirements.
A political party's proposal does not change existing law. If you have already begun the Einbürgerung process, the current rules apply to your application unless parliament passes new legislation. If you are uncertain about how your application might be affected by any future changes, consulting a qualified immigration lawyer or contacting your local Ausländerbehörde is advisable.
BAMF is the official authority responsible for the naturalization process in Germany, including the knowledge test. Look up BAMF's official website for practice materials, test dates and current requirements.
This is a personal decision that depends on your individual circumstances. However, if you already meet the requirements for Einbürgerung, there is generally no disadvantage to applying sooner rather than later. A qualified immigration adviser can help you assess your situation.
The AfD's call for a harder citizenship test is a political signal worth watching, but it has not changed the law. If you are working towards Einbürgerung, the most important thing you can do right now is stay informed through official sources like BAMF, ensure you meet the current requirements, and prepare thoroughly for the existing test. Political landscapes change — the best protection is being well-prepared under the rules that currently apply.
Source: thelocal
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