The procedure for obtaining protection in Germany has been simplified for Ukrainians
Germany has reduced the number of bureaucratic procedures for Ukrainian refugees. Now our fellow citizens do not have to go through the asylum procedure. The country’s authorities made a decision to accept displaced persons under a simplified procedure.
Who can get protection under the simplified procedure?
From now on, the following are not required to go through the asylum procedure:
- citizens of Ukraine who permanently resided in the territory of the country of origin until February 24, 2022;
- stateless persons and citizens of third countries who, until February 24, 2022, had the status of international protection or national protection equivalent to international protection in Ukraine;
- family members of citizens of Ukraine, as well as stateless persons and citizens of third countries, who can prove that until February 24, 2022, they were legally in Ukraine on the basis of a residence permit issued in accordance with Ukrainian legislation. A simplified procedure applies to them if they are unable to return safely to their country or region of origin.
Obtaining German citizenship has also become easier
In addition, this year Germany lifted restrictions on dual citizenship and simplified the procedure for obtaining citizenship. From now on, it is possible to get a German passport after only 3 years of residence in the country, instead of 6-8 years, as it was before.
The period of residence for those applying for German citizenship has been reduced from 8 to 5 years. At the same time, a foreigner must pass a test on knowledge of the socio-political system of the country and confirm the level of knowledge of the German language (not lower than B1).
Spouses of German citizens can obtain a German passport in three years. Also, from now on, such a right is granted to those who have achieved “special success” in integration. It is about knowledge of the German language at a level not lower than C1 and can prove significant achievements in volunteering, professional activities or in studies obtained in Germany.
