BERLIN: Pakistan has completed the formalities required to finalise a dual nationality arrangement with Germany, allowing Pakistan-origin residents to retain their Pakistani citizenship while acquiring German nationality, the Pakistanis Embassy in Germany confirmed.
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Under the new arrangement, Pakistanis applying for German citizenship will no longer be required to renounce their Pakistani nationality. The embassy said it will soon provide details for those who had previously given up Pakistani citizenship to reclaim it.
This move follows the Pakistan Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2024, which established dual nationality agreements with 22 countries. The law was approved by the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Interior to address long-standing issues faced by overseas Pakistanis.
Previously, Pakistanis seeking citizenship in countries without dual nationality arrangements were compelled to renounce their Pakistani citizenship, creating legal and personal challenges. The amendment allows citizens of the 22 countries, including Germany, to acquire foreign nationality without surrendering their Pakistani nationality.
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The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports, part of the Ministry of Interior, confirmed that the changes also facilitate the restoration of citizenship for those who had previously relinquished it. Officials said the amendments resolve a long-standing legal issue, streamline the naturalisation process for overseas Pakistanis, and remove hurdles related to renunciation requirements in foreign countries.
The new dual nationality agreement with Germany expands opportunities for Pakistanis living abroad, enabling them to enjoy the rights of both countries while maintaining ties to their homeland