Temporary Estonian Citizenship for Fully Integrated Individuals with Obligation to Renounce Previous Citizenship

The current process of acquiring Estonian citizenship is complex and lengthy, especially for those required to renounce their previous citizenship, which in some cases can take years. This affects various groups, including individuals from countries where renunciation is bureaucratically difficult. It is also important that all integration requirements — language proficiency, societal knowledge, and others — are clearly defined and applied equally to all immigrants and persons granted international protection. The current situation can hinder full participation in Estonian society and limit access to employment opportunities, especially in public and governmental sectors where Estonian citizenship is required.

Amend the Estonian Citizenship Act to allow temporary Estonian citizenship to persons who have completed all integration requirements and passed the necessary examinations, but who have difficulties renouncing their previous citizenship. Provisional citizenship would be granted with a written commitment to renounce the previous citizenship within a fixed minimum period, which could be extended if necessary according to the reporting of the person. This would allow them to more quickly start working and studying in Estonian state and public structures where Estonian citizenship is required.