Germany has taken a sharp turn in its immigration policy under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, with new rules that are expected to have a wide-reaching impact on migrants — including thousands of Indians living in the country. On May 28, the German Cabinet approved a series of measures that both restrict refugee family reunification and end the fast-track route to citizenship.
Family Reunification Halted for Subsidiary Protection Holders
One of the most controversial changes involves a temporary ban on family reunification for migrants who hold subsidiary protection — a status granted to those who do not qualify for full refugee status but cannot return to their home countries due to serious risk. Effective immediately and lasting for two years, these individuals will no longer be able to bring their spouses or children to Germany.
According to SchengenVisa News, nearly 380,000 people in Germany currently fall under this category, with Syrians forming the majority. In 2024 alone, 120,000 visas were issued for family reunification. That number is now expected to decline significantly.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt defended the decision, saying Germany’s cities and towns have reached a “breaking point” in their ability to integrate new arrivals. “We can no longer meet the needs of refugees,” he stated.
Human Rights Groups React
The policy has sparked a strong backlash from human rights organizations. Advocacy group Pro Asyl warned that forced family separation can have severe psychological consequences and may even push desperate migrants toward illegal migration routes.
Citizenship Gets Harder: 3-Year Fast-Track Path Abolished
In another major shift, Germany has scrapped its 3-year fast-track citizenship process, which had allowed “specially integrated” foreign residents to apply for naturalisation earlier than the standard timeline. Moving forward, all eligible residents must wait at least five years before applying for German citizenship.
This change comes after 200,000 foreign nationals became German citizens in 2024 — the highest number in over two decades. The government views the surge as unsustainable.
However, exceptions remain: foreign nationals married to German citizens can still apply after three years, provided the marriage has lasted at least two years.
What Does This Mean for Indians in Germany?
Germany has seen a rising number of Indian migrants, particularly students and skilled professionals. While most Indians typically migrate under work or study permits — not refugee protections — the changes could still affect:
- Indians under humanitarian or asylum status: If they hold subsidiary protection, they may now face barriers to bringing family members.
- Indian families planning citizenship: Those hoping for a faster naturalisation route may now have to adjust their timelines and expectations.
- Married Indian-German couples: The exception for spouses still stands, which is a positive for Indian nationals married to German citizens.
Final Thoughts
These sweeping changes reflect a growing political pushback against high migration levels in Germany. While aimed at controlling migration pressure, they may have unintended consequences — from family hardship to increased illegal crossings. For Indian nationals and other migrants, staying informed and seeking timely legal advice will be key in navigating this evolving landscape.
