Germany Sees Record-Breaking Citizenship Numbers in 2024, Driven by Syrians, Russians & Integration Reforms

Germany reached a historic milestone in 2024, granting citizenship to 291,955 people — the highest number recorded since the current statistics began in 2000, according to the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis). This figure represents a 46% increase compared to 2023, or 91,860 more naturalisations, highlighting a growing trend of foreigners obtaining a German passport.

Syrians, Turks, Iraqis, Russians, and Afghans Lead Citizenship Surge

Of those naturalised, Syrian nationals made up the largest group, with 83,150 people (28% of total naturalisations). Notably, 9% of Syrians residing in Germany at the start of the year acquired citizenship in 2024 — the highest rate among all nationalities.

The top five nationalities granted German citizenship in 2024 were:

• Syrian – 83,150 (28%)
• Turkish – 22,525 (8%)
• Iraqi – 13,545 (5%)
• Russian – 12,980 (4%)
• Afghan – 10,085 (3%)

The number of Russian nationals obtaining citizenship increased by over 550% compared to 2023, when only 1,995 Russians were naturalised. Similarly, naturalisation among Turkish nationals rose by 110%, with an additional 11,790 people gaining citizenship. Syrian naturalisations also rose by 10% year-over-year.

Government Reforms & Integration Incentives Contributed to Rise

The surge in naturalisations can be partly attributed to government reforms and integration efforts. Around 86% of those naturalised were family members (spouses or children), while 7% were granted citizenship under special integration achievements, such as a shorter required stay in Germany.

The average residency period before naturalisation increased slightly to 11.8 years, up from 10.9 years in 2023. For Syrians, the average was 7.4 years, compared to 6.8 years in the previous year.

Stateless persons also saw progress, with 4,130 individuals (22% of the stateless population) obtaining German citizenship in 2024.