ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has completed the formalities required to finalise a dual nationality arrangement with Germany, allowing Pakistan-origin residents in Germany to retain their Pakistani citizenship while acquiring German nationality, officials confirmed. The Pakistan Embassy in Germany announced that the codal requirements have been fulfilled, effectively adding Germany to the list of countries with which Pakistan permits dual citizenship.
Citizens no longer required to renounce nationality
Under the new arrangement, Pakistan-origin residents applying for German citizenship will no longer have to renounce their Pakistani nationality. The embassy also stated that details regarding the restoration of Pakistani citizenship for individuals who had previously surrendered it will be shared shortly. The development follows Pakistan’s establishment of dual citizenship agreements with 22 countries under the Pakistan Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2024, which removes the requirement for citizens of these countries to give up their nationality when acquiring Pakistani citizenship.
Amendments aim to support overseas Pakistanis
The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Interior approved the amendment to address challenges faced by overseas Pakistanis, who were previously compelled to relinquish Pakistani citizenship when acquiring nationality in countries without dual citizenship arrangements. The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports confirmed that Pakistanis obtaining citizenship in the 22 countries covered under the amendment will no longer need to surrender their nationality.
Officials said the law also provides a mechanism to restore citizenship for those who had renounced it. Previously, dual nationality was permitted with only a small number of countries, creating legal complications for overseas Pakistanis. The Ministry of Law noted that many countries require proof of renunciation before granting citizenship, and the amendment removes these obstacles while ensuring legal clarity and protection for Pakistani citizens abroad.
