Changes to the German law, that will make it far easier to get a German citizenship, are likely to have a profound impact on the Balkans.

Germany is already the main destination for Balkan emigrants, even as it demanded people give up their original citizenship and imposed long wait lines. Under the new rules, immigrants will be eligible for a German citizenship after five years of gainful employment in Germany – in some cases after only three years. Immigrants will no longer be required to give up their original citizenship, but will have to show that they have learnt German, and to denounce anti-Semitism. Family unification will also be made easier.