The German government wants to make it easier for foreigners to become citizens. So new German citizenship laws have been approved and its cabinet has approved a draft measure to ease citizenship rules. They hope that by making new immigration laws in Germany people to become citizens. In their big economy, they can enlist skilled migrants to address the issue of not having enough workers. This article covers everything from choosing the right visa type to a German visa appointment in Pakistan, a German visa application, and German visa fees for Pakistan.
Changes in Citizenship Rules:
Germany simplifies its citizenship rules process and aims to lead in attracting skilled professionals globally. Germany updates citizenship rules 2023 or get German citizenship in 3 years:
- Reduced Residency Requirement: The law reduces the residency requirement for naturalization from 8 to 5 years, and in some cases, get German citizenship in 3 years.
- Automatic Citizenship for Children: Children born in Germany to parents residing for over 5 years receive German citizenship automatically.
- Language Proficiency for Seniors: Immigrants aged 67 and above can take an oral German language exam as an alternative to a written test.
- Embracing Dual Citizenship: The law welcomes dual citizenship, acknowledging diverse identities and global connections.
- Data Insights: Approximately 2.9 million Germans currently hold multiple citizenships.
- Residence and Work: Immigrants from non-EU countries will need a specific residence title aligned with their purpose of stay, granting the right to work.
- Significance: The new immigration law in Germany aims to make Germany more attractive to talented migrants and promote integration.
- Effective Date: According to the updates, the new immigration law will be effective on March 1st, 2024.
Fast-Track to German Citizenship: Achieving It in Just Three Years
In some special cases, people who are not originally from Germany but have done really well in academics or their job, are very involved in the community, or are really good at speaking German can become German citizens after just three years. This new way of doing things is unique in Europe and encourages these people to become a part of German society completely.
How to Apply for German Citizenship?
Application Process: Interested individuals can apply through the Federal Ministry of the Interior’s website. Meeting criteria including residency, language skills, cultural knowledge, and passing a citizenship test.
How much money is required for German citizenship?
You don’t have to invest a specific amount of money to get a German entrepreneurial visa. But, it’s a good idea to plan to invest around €360,000. Because it shows that your investment will meet what the German government expects.
How to apply for a German visa from Pakistan?
Applying for a German visa involves several steps, and the process may vary slightly depending on the type of visa you need e.g., tourist, student, work, family reunion. Here’s the German Visa Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide to help you get started:
Determine the Visa Type:
- Identify the type of visa you need based on your purpose for traveling to Germany.
- Schengen tourist visa
- Student visa,
- Work visa
- Family reunion visa
Ensure that you meet the specific requirements for that visa category.
Gather Required Documents:
- Collect all the necessary documents for your visa application. These documents typically include
- A valid passport
- Visa application form
- Passport-sized photos
- Proof of travel health insurance
- Financial statements
- Letter of invitation
and any other documents specific to your visa type.
Book a German visa Appointment:
- Visit the website of the German embassy or consulate in Pakistan.
- Apart from the online appointment for your visit at
- the Embassy in Islamabad
- the Consulate General in Karachi
Many German missions require applicants to schedule an appointment online. Make sure to choose a date and time that is convenient for you.
Complete the Visa Application Form:
- Fill out the visa application form accurately and completely. You can usually download the application form from the official website of the German embassy or consulate. Some consulates also offer online application submission.
- Click here to download the Form.
Pay Visa Fees:
- Pay the required visa application fee. The fee amount can vary depending on your visa type.
- Applications at the Embassy Islamabad: Please note that at the time of the application an amount of 500,- PKR is due for returning the passports through a courier service.
- While submitting the application, you will receive a payment request. Please take this request to the Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Diplomatic Enclave Branch only, and pay the requested visa fee. The bank will report your payment to the Embassy. A fee of 350,- PKR will be levied by the bank. Please note that in case your appointment coincides with an official banking holiday, the payment of fees cannot be settled that day.
- Applications at the Consulate General Karachi: Please note that the visa fee (equivalent to PKR) has to be paid in CASH at the time of submission.
| Schengen visa / Short-term visa (cat. “C”) | 80€ (in PKR) | |
| Schengen visa (children aged 6 to 12) Airport transit (cat. “A”) | 40€ (in PKR) | |
| National German Long Term Visa (e.g. study, family reunion) (cat. “D”) | 75€ (in PKR) | |
| Children aged 0-17 for family reunion | 37,50€ (in PKR) | |
| Spouses/children of citizens of the EU | exempted from visa fees | |
Visit a Visa Application Centre:
- On the scheduled appointment date, visit the Visa Application Centre or the German embassy/consulate in person. Bring all the required documents, the visa application form, and the payment receipt for the visa fee. Be prepared for an interview if necessary.
Attend the Interview:
Depending on your visa type and specific circumstances, you may be required to attend an interview. Be honest and provide all necessary information during the interview.
Track Your Application:
- After submitting your visa application, you will receive a tracking number or receipt. Use this information to check the status of your application online through the official website of the German embassy or consulate.
Collect Your Passport:
- Once your visa application is processed, you will be notified about the decision. If they approve your visa, follow the instructions to collect your passport with the visa stamp from the Visa Application Centre or the embassy/consulate.
Prepare for Your Trip:
- With your visa in hand, make travel arrangements, including booking flights, and accommodation, and ensuring you have all the required documents for your trip.
Please note that the specific requirements and procedures for German visa application may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
New German citizenship laws are a positive step toward attracting skilled migrants and enhancing integration. It reflects the government’s commitment to a diverse and prosperous future.
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