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Birthright Citizenship and Youth Crime

Author

Listed:
  • Leander Andres
  • Stefan Bauernschuster
  • Gordon B. Dahl
  • Helmut Rainer
  • Simone Schüller

Abstract

This paper studies the impact of birthright citizenship on youth crime. We leverage a German reform which automatically granted birthright citizenship to eligible immigrant children born in Germany after January 1, 2000 and administrative crime data from three federal states. We find that immigrant youth who acquired citizenship at birth are substantially less likely to engage in criminal activity, with estimates indicating a 70% reduction in crime. These results are particularly relevant in light of ongoing debates in the U.S. about abolishing birthright citizenship. Our findings suggest that inclusive citizenship policies can reduce crime and its associated costs, which in turn could strengthen social cohesion.

Suggested Citation

  • Leander Andres & Stefan Bauernschuster & Gordon B. Dahl & Helmut Rainer & Simone Schüller, 2026. "Birthright Citizenship and Youth Crime," NBER Working Papers 35070, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:35070
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    JEL classification:

    • J15 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Minorities, Races, Indigenous Peoples, and Immigrants; Non-labor Discrimination
    • K42 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Illegal Behavior and the Enforcement of Law

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