This research examines the factors influencing naturalisation rates among migrants in Germany, with a focus on policy barriers, regional variations, and integration outcomes. The study draws on a mixed-methods approach combining longitudinal administrative data analysis with original survey data collected from over 500 migrants across five German federal states.

Background

Germany's naturalisation rate has historically lagged behind comparable Western European states. Despite recent legislative reforms, uptake remains uneven across regions and demographic groups. This paper investigates the structural and administrative factors that explain this variation.

Key Finding

Regional digital infrastructure and multilingual administrative support significantly correlate with higher naturalisation rates. States with online application portals and multilingual guidance documents show uptake rates 23% higher than those relying on in-person bureaucratic processes.

Methodology

Mixed-methods approach combining longitudinal analysis (2019-2024), semi-structured interviews with 40 migration officers, and survey data from 500+ migrants. Survey instruments were designed in German, English, Turkish, and Arabic using SoSci Survey.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that administrative modernisation — rather than policy reform alone — represents the most tractable lever for increasing naturalisation uptake in the short term. Digital-first bureaucratic infrastructure reduces friction and signals institutional openness to new citizens.