City of Jena welcomes new citizens

The city of Jena has once again ceremoniously welcomed new citizens. 303 people who were naturalized in the second half of 2025 were invited to the event in the Rathausdiele. Of these, 121 are women and 182 men. After "the formal, often lengthy and difficult process of naturalization", Lord Mayor Dr. Thomas Nitzsche gave them a very warm welcome.

Those naturalized in recent months come from 47 different nations on five continents. The most numerous countries of origin are Syria, Ukraine and Russia. In addition, 19 stateless people were naturalized.

"Germany needs an influx of people because the basis for the country's economic strength - despite digitalization and automation - will always be people," emphasized Nitzsche. This is particularly evident in Jena, an economically strong city. "By the end of the decade, around a third of the workforce will retire, but only a third of them can be replaced by young people who come from here," said the Lord Mayor. The shortage of skilled workers can be felt everywhere. However, he also knew that many people came to Germany because they were seeking protection and asylum. Those who have now been naturalized have integrated very well, which usually happens quietly and does not dominate the media.

The number of naturalizations has risen sharply in recent years. While around 30 people were naturalized in Jena every year until 2010, eight to ten years ago it was already around 50. Since 2018, the number has been over 70. In 2023, over 200 people were naturalized, in 2024 a total of 333. In 2025, a total of 564 people were granted German citizenship.

Flight, work or perhaps a relationship with a loved one - every naturalization is associated with very personal motivations, developments, fates and profound changes for each individual, said Nitzsche. In addition to legal residence of at least five years in most cases, the requirements for obtaining German citizenship are sufficient knowledge of German, a successfully passed naturalization test on the German legal and social order, a commitment to the free and democratic basic order and securing a livelihood without social welfare or unemployment benefits.

"I would like to express my great appreciation for your effort, patience and perseverance, but also for your courage," said Nitzsche. "May you find a home here - if you haven't already."

Several naturalized citizens spoke briefly about their experiences: Helena Stock from the Czech Republic, Chaturi Ranathunga from Sri Lanka and Hardik Chauhan from India.

Neu eingebürgerte Personen mit ihren Familien bei der Feier

© Stadt Jena