Pakistan Adds Germany to Its Dual Citizenship Framework — What This Means for Nationals Abroad

Written by Isma Khalid

For years, thousands of Pakistanis living in Germany have faced a difficult choice: pursue German citizenship to secure long-term stability and equal rights, or retain their Pakistani nationality and the legal, emotional, and familial ties that come with it. This dilemma has been especially common among long-term residents, professionals, and families who have built their lives in Germany but did not want to formally sever their connection to Pakistan. In early 2026, this long-standing challenge took a decisive turn. Pakistan has officially approved dual citizenship with Germany, marking a major policy shift and bringing long-awaited relief to the Pakistani diaspora in one of Europe’s most important destination countries.

As more Pakistanis move to Germany for education, employment, and family reunification, understanding each stage of the immigration journey — from the first visa application to permanent residence and beyond — has never been more important.

🆕 What’s Changed

Until now, Pakistanis applying for German citizenship were generally required to renounce their Pakistani nationality, as Germany was not included in Pakistan’s list of dual-citizenship partner countries. With the latest decision, this requirement has been removed. Pakistan has formally added Germany to its dual nationality framework, allowing eligible individuals to hold both Pakistani and German citizenship simultaneously.

According to official statements, all necessary administrative and legal processes have been completed, and the change is now in effect.

Credits: Embassy of Pakistan, Berlin

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📍 What This Means for You

• No renunciation of Pakistani citizenship when applying for German nationality
  
  
• Greater legal security for long-term residents and families in Germany
  
  
• Simplified naturalization decisions for professionals, students, and skilled workers
  
  
• Future guidance expected for individuals who previously renounced Pakistani citizenship and wish to reclaim it
  
  

🌍 Why It Matters

Germany is home to one of the largest Pakistani communities in Europe, many of whom contribute significantly to the country’s economy, academia, and healthcare sector. This policy update removes a major psychological and legal barrier to naturalization, enabling deeper integration into German society without forcing individuals to give up their national identity.

For those planning long-term residence or citizenship in Germany, this development represents a meaningful step toward more flexible and inclusive migration pathways.

🧭 How VisaFlow Supports You at Every Step

Navigating German immigration procedures can be complex, with changing rules, strict documentation requirements, and tight deadlines. VisaFlow is designed to support you at every stage of your journey — from your first visa application to long-term residence planning.

With VisaFlow, you get:

• Step-by-step guidance tailored to your situation
  
  
• Complete document checklists for each visa and residence permit
  
  
• Clear timelines and next steps, so nothing is missed
  
  
• Support across student visas, post-graduation residence permits, work visas, and permanent residence
  

By breaking down complex processes into clear, manageable steps, VisaFlow helps ensure that nothing falls through the cracks as you plan your future in Germany.