"Surge since October 2023": 170,000 applications for restoration of German citizenship, most from Israel

Data from the German federal government shows that approximately 170,000 applications for restoration of German citizenship have been submitted in recent years, most from Israel, with a surge since October 2023. In 2025, 11,500 passports were issued, a 60% increase over the previous year.

Data published by the German federal government reveals that approximately 170,000 applications for restoration of German citizenship have been submitted in recent years, with a significant surge since October 2023. Most applications come from Israel. Sociologist Mark Fox told the newspaper 'Die Welt' that this is a security measure for Israelis, noting the historical memory of the 1930s. In 2025, 11,500 passports were issued, a 60% increase over 2024, of which 5,924 went to Israelis. The article also notes a trend of British and American Jews seeking German citizenship, as well as a forgery affair by a Chinese mafia that suspended issuance.