Citizenship Laws of The World
Citizenship Laws of The World
Citizenship Laws of The World
Citizenship
Laws of the
World
IS-1
March 2001
CONTENTS
Introduction - Page 3
Structure of Directory - Page 3
Reading a Country Entry - Page 4
General Information on Dual Citizenship - Page 6
United States Citizenship Information - Page 9
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
CONSULAR SERVICES and DESK OFFICERS
TELEPHONE NUMBERS:
African Region - Page 222
Central and South American Regions - Page 223
East Asian and Pacific Regions - Page 224
European and Canadian Regions - Page 225
Near Eastern and South Asian Regions - Page 226
Other Countries and Territories - Page 227
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
INTERNATIONAL LAW DIVISION
2
Introduction and
General Information
INTRODUCTION
This directory provides synopses of the citizenship laws for most of the world's
countries. We obtained information for this directory from embassies, the Library
of Congress, and the Department of State. The directory also provides the
address, telephone number, and fax number of most countries' diplomatic
representatives.
We have made this document as accurate and up-to-date as our resources have
allowed. The information contained in this directory should not be considered
formal legal advice. It is intended to serve as a quick reference document,
summarizing the citizenship laws of foreign nations and providing contact
information. You should direct detailed or specific questions to a nation’s specific
diplomatic representatives.
Readers should understand that citizenship laws are often amended to keep in
step with political changes. A considerable time lapse between the enactment of
new laws and their actual implementation is not uncommon. Moreover, it is not
unusual to encounter differences between a nation’s laws and its actual practices.
STRUCTURE OF DIRECTORY
This directory is an alphabetic listing of countries. The formal names of some
countries are replaced by their more commonly known names. For example, the
UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND is the
formal name of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. In this directory
it is listed as UNITED KINGDOM.
Most countries have changed their names at one time or another throughout
history. For example, the country formerly known as Burma is now known as
Myanmar, while the Ivory Coast is now Cote d’Ivoire. We have listed countries by
their current names. In some instances, to avoid confusion, we have listed the
most recent former names of nations next to their current names.
3
READING A COUNTRY ENTRY
STRUCTURE: Information in each country listing is presented as follows:
· CITIZENSHIP
· DUAL CITIZENSHIP
· LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP
· ADDRESS
CITIZENSHIP: This section lists the various methods by which a person may
obtain the citizenship of a country.
In the case of U.S. citizens born abroad in a country under the principle of jus solis,
the question arises as to whether the other citizenship continues after the child has
left the country of birth. For definitive answers to questions such as this, contact
the proper embassy or the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service.
4
naturalization requirements for that nation. Usually these persons possess
blood ties to the country through immediate relatives who are citizens, or by
marriage to a citizen of that country.
Not all nations recognize that their citizens may possess simultaneous citizenship
of another country. In this directory, dual citizenship is addressed in the individual
country listings as either RECOGNIZED or NOT RECOGNIZED by that country.
The EXCEPTION entries list any exceptions to recognition or non-recognition of
dual citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: This category is divided into two parts, the voluntary
and the involuntary loss of citizenship.
Most countries’ laws dictate the loss of citizenship upon a citizen’s voluntary
acquisition of another country’s citizenship. The interpretation of what
constitutes "voluntary" is not uniform, however. In certain countries it is not
considered voluntary unless the person makes an explicit declaration of the
citizenship of the other country. For example, in Austria a person
automatically obtains Austrian citizenship when appointed as a professor at
an Austrian university. Some countries interpret this as “involuntary”
citizenship and, according to their laws, citizenship is not lost. Other
countries state that if a citizen obtains another nationality, and makes no
effort to renounce it, citizenship is lost.
5
Loss of naturalized citizenship usually occurs when the naturalized citizen:
· Resided for a specified time in another country.
· Obtained citizenship through fraud or false statements.
· Did not renounce previous citizenship.
ADDRESS OF THE EMBASSY: This entry gives the address, phone number,
and fax number of the representatives of the country in the United States. Most
nations have an embassy in Washington, DC; some countries have a United
Nations Mission in New York City or a trade mission elsewhere.
There are some countries that either do not have a representative in the United
States or which desire that their representatives not be contacted. They have
provided us with no address or contact information. Two sources of information
about these nations are the Library of Congress's International Law Library and
the Department of State’s Office of Consular Affairs. Although these are not
primary sources of information, they can be helpful in resolving citizenship
questions.
The majority of countries do not recognize dual citizenship. That is, their
governments do not recognize a person’s prerogative to the rights, privileges, or
immunities that may be the prerogatives of citizens of the other nation.
7
6. Restriction By Law: A country may forbid its citizens to become
naturalized in a foreign state, except with the original nation’s permission.
When permission is granted, the person loses their former citizenship.
THE UNITED STATES ENTRY DOES NOT APPEAR LATER IN THE COUNTRY LISTINGS
8
UNITED STATES
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon Title 8 of U.S. Code 1401 - 1409, dated 1986.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of the United States, regardless of the citizenship of
the parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born abroad, both of whose parents are citizens of the United States, and one of
whom resided in the United States before the birth of the child.
· Child born abroad, one of whose parents is a citizen of the United States who resided in
the United States for at least five years before the birth of the child.
· OTHER: Certain provisions for granting citizenship have been extended to persons who have
performed specific military service to this country. For more information, contact the U.S.
Immigration and Naturalization Service.
Based on the U.S. Department of State regulation on dual citizenship (7 FM 1162), the Supreme
Court of the United States has stated that dual citizenship is a “status long recognized in the law”
and that “a person may have and exercise rights of nationality in two countries and be subject to
the responsibilities of both. The mere fact he asserts the rights of one citizenship does not without
more mean that he renounces the other,” (Kawakita v. U.S., 343 U.S. 717) (1952).
The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) does not define dual citizenship or take a position for it
or against it. There has been no prohibition against dual citizenship, but some provisions of the
INA and earlier U.S. nationality laws were designed to reduce situations in which dual citizenship
exists.
United States law does not contain any provisions requiring U.S. citizens who are born with dual
citizenship or who acquire a second citizenship at an early age to choose one or the other when
they become adults (Mandeli v. Acheson, 344 U.S. 133) (1952). The current citizenship laws of the
United States do not specifically refer to dual citizenship.
While recognizing the existence of dual citizenship and permitting Americans to have other
citizenships, the U.S. Government does not endorse dual citizenship as a matter of policy because
of the problems that it may cause. Claims of other countries on dual-national U.S. citizens often
place them in situations where their obligations to one country are in conflict with the laws of the
other.
9
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of United States citizenship:
· Person commits treason against the United States.
· Person takes an oath of allegiance to a foreign state.
· Person joins the armed forces of a country at war with the U.S.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship policy of the U.S. or its territories should be sent to the
address below:
Telephone: 202-647-4000
10
Country Listings
11
IN THE COUNTRY LISTINGS THAT FOLLOW, THE WORDS
CITIZENSHIP and NATIONALITY ARE SYNONYMOUS,
AS ARE THE WORDS CITIZEN and NATIONAL.
12
AFGHANISTAN
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Official Gazette of the Ministry of Justice for
the Republic of Afghanistan dated March 19, 1992.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Afghanistan does not automatically confer citizenship.
Exception is a child of unknown/stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child whose mother or father is a citizen, regardless of the country of birth.
· MARRIAGE: Foreign national who marries a citizen of Afghanistan is granted citizenship upon
application.
The Afghani spouse of a foreign national is not required to renounce Afghan citizenship unless
demanded by the spouse's country.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Afghan citizenship: Person
voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship and does not fall under the exempted status described
under "Dual Citizenship." Persons concerned with dual citizenship should not assume their
Afghan citizenship was lost by default. Embassy should be contacted and citizenship formally
renounced.
www.afghan-web.com
13
ALBANIA
CITIZENSHIP: Current Albanian policy toward citizenship is being debated in Parliament.
According to the Albanian Consulate, the new Constitution will be the basis for all laws. Out of this
Constitution will come the country's citizenship laws.
www.undp.tirana.al
www.albanian.com
14
ALGERIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Code of Algerian Nationality, dated December 15,
1978.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Algeria does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born to unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child of an Algerian father, regardless of the country of birth.
· Child of an Algerian mother and an unknown or stateless father, regardless of the country
of birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Algerian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
· Person's employment with a foreign nation or company is not in the interest of Algeria.
· Naturalized citizen is convicted of a crime (abroad or in Algeria) and sentenced to five
years or more.
· Naturalized citizen is involved in acts incompatible with the interests of Algeria.
15
ANDORRA
CITIZENSHIP: Per information provided by the U.S. Consulate General in Barcelona, Spain: the
information provided does not include recent modifications approved by the Andorran Parliament
on October 27, 1992, but never implemented.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the principality of Andorra does not automatically confer citizenship.
The exceptions are children of unknown parents or children born in Andorra if at least one
parent was also born in Andorra.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Andorra, regardless of the
country of birth.
· BY NATURALIZATION: Andorran citizenship is very difficult to obtain. The following are those
most easily able to apply for citizenship:
· Child born outside Andorra to an Andorran mother or father who was born outside Andorra.
· Those married to an Andorran who has lived at least three years in the country.
· Child age 14 and under, adopted by an Andorran.
· Application by individuals who have 25 years of residence in Andorra.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Andorran citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship. (See "Dual Citizenship: Exception")
· Person voluntarily enrolls in a foreign army.
· Person holds a foreign political office.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship or information about Andorra should be directed to the
address below:
Embassy of the Principality of Andorra to the United States U.S. Embassy Madrid
th
2 United Nations Plaza (25 Floor) Or Serrano 75
New York, NY 10017 28006-Madrid
www.andorra.ad/cniavk.html
16
ANGOLA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon Law #13/91 dated May 13, 1991.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the Republic of Angola does not automatically confer citizenship. The
only exception is a child born in Angola to unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Angola, regardless of the
country of birth.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign national who marries a citizen of Angola may apply for citizenship after
marriage. A foreign spouse who obtains Angolan citizenship upon marriage may keep the
citizenship in the event of a divorce or annulment if the marriage was entered into in good faith.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Angolan citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· Naturalized citizen is convicted of crimes against the State.
· Naturalized citizen serves in the military of a foreign State.
· Naturalized citizenship was obtained by fraud or false statements.
www.angola.org
17
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Citizenship Law of Antigua and Barbuda, dated
November 1, 1981. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation). Automatic citizenship for:
· BY BIRTH: Child born after October 31, 1981, in the territory of Antigua and Baruda,
regardless of the nationality of the parents. The exceptions are the children born to diplomatic
personnel.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, after October 31, 1981, at least one of whose parents was
a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda.
· REGISTRATION: The following persons are eligible to obtain citizenship through registration
after October 31, 1981:
· Person married to a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda at least three years and the
marriage is still subsisting and such person is not living apart from the spouse.
· Commonwealth citizen who resided in Antigua and Barbuda for more than seven years
continuously.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED. A citizen shall not, solely on the ground that they are or
become a citizen of another country, be deprived of citizenship, refused registration as a citizen; or
required to renounce citizenship of the other country, by or under any law. The citizen shall not be
refused a passport of Antigua and Barbuda or have such a passport withdrawn, cancelled, or
impounded solely on the ground that the person is in possession of a passport issued by some
other country of which they are a citizen or be required to surrender or be prohibited from acquiring
a passport issued by some other country of which they are a citizen before being issued a passport
of Antigua and Barbuda or as a condition of retaining such a passport.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized Antiguan and
Barbudan citizenship:
· Person obtains citizenship through fraud or false statement.
· Person is convicted of sedition or treason against Antigua and Barbuda.
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ARGENTINA
CITIZENSHIP: Argentine citizenship is based upon Argentine Citizenship Law #346.
· BY BIRTH:
· Child born in Argentina, except to accredited ministers of foreign powers.
· Child born in Argentine legations or on Argentine warships.
· Child born in neutral waters on ships flying the Argentine flag.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, both of whose parents are Argentine citizens.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Per Argentine consular office, citizenship can only be renounced in the capital,
Buenos Aires. Papers must be signed at the police station and then the individual must appear
before a judge where the renunciation must be accepted by the Argentine government.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Argentine citizenship:
· Person acquires foreign citizenship, but does not fall under "Dual Citizenship."
· Person accepts employment or honors from a foreign government without permission.
· Person commits fraudulent bankruptcy or has an infamous sentence.
19
ARMENIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Constitution of Armenia dated July 5, 1995,
and the Citizenship Law dated November 26, 1995.
· BY RECOGNITION:
· Citizens of the former SSR-Armenia living permanently in the Republic of Armenia who
have not acquired citizenship in another country.
· People having no citizenship and living permanently in the Republic of Armenia during the
3 years before the present law came into effect, or citizens of the former USSR who apply
for citizenship.
· Citizens of the former SSR-Armenia who have lived abroad since September 21, 1991,
have not acquired citizenship of another country, are who were registered in the Consulate
before the present law came into effect.
· BY BIRTH:
· A child, one of whose parents is a citizen and the other is unknown or a person having no
citizenship, acquires citizenship of the Republic of Armenia.
· The citizenship of a child, one of whose parents is an Armenian citizen and one a foreign
citizen, will be decided by the written agreement of both parents. In the absence of
agreement, the child acquires Armenian citizenship or no citizenship at all.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child whose parents are both citizens of Armenia is a citizen regardless of birthplace.
· A child under 14 years old, whose parents acquire the citizenship of Armenia, acquires
citizenship as well.
· A child adopted by citizens of the Republic of Armenia acquires Armenian citizenship.
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ARMENIA (cont.)
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY:
· A citizen may voluntarily change their citizenship except when under criminal investigation,
if a court verdict will be issued concerning them, if giving up citizenship interferes with the
interests of national security, or if the person has unfulfilled duties connected with the
interests of the state, enterprises, organizations, or citizens.
· A child under 14, whose parents’ citizenship is renounced, loses citizenship if the child then
acquires citizenship of another country.
· In a case when parents have changed their citizenship, a child 14 to18 years old must
consent to the same change in their own citizenship.
· INVOLUNTARY:
· Citizen has lived abroad for the past seven years, has failed to register at the consulate.
· Citizenship acquired citizenship by breaking the law, using false references, or false
documents.
21
AUSTRALIA
CITIZENSHIP: Based on the Australian Citizenship Act of 1948. Since 1948 there have been
numerous legislative and administrative changes, but the critical factor is usually the date of birth of
the applicant and the citizenship status of the parents. (UKC-Commonwealth)
Due to the numerous changes to criteria associated with citizenship status and eligibility, for further
information it is essential that interested parties contact the Australian Department of Immigration
and Multicultural Affairs (DIMA).
· BY BIRTH:
· On January 26, 1949 Australian Law provided for acquisition of Australian citizenship by
certain persons who were British subjects immediately before that date. Persons who
were non-British residents at that time need to contact DIMA for further assistance.
· From January 26, 1949, until August 19, 1986, with some exceptions, a person born in
Australia acquires Australian citizenship automatically.
· On or after August 20, 1986, a person born in Australia must have at least one parent who
is either an Australian citizen or a permanent resident.
· A person born in any external territory that has been, or still is, under Australian
Government control should contact the nearest DIMA office for clarification of their status
or eligibility for citizenship.
· BY NATURALIZATION: Persons who have fulfilled the following requirements may apply for
grants of citizenship. (As a matter of policy, a certificate of Australian citizenship will not
normally be granted to applicants overseas.)
· Obtained permanent resident status and are 18 years of age or older. They are of good
character, have a basic knowledge and grasp of the English language, are likely to reside
permanently in Australia or, at least, maintain a close and continuing association.
· Have spent 2 years out of the past 5 years in Australia with 12 months having been
resident there within the last 2 years prior to submitting the application.
· Children under the age of 18 years who are adopted from overseas may obtain Australian
citizenship by application, provided at least one parent is an Australian citizen.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: Current legislation does not favor dual or plural citizenship but does
recognize it.
22
AUSTRALIA (cont.)
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
www.austemb.org
www.abs.gov.au
23
AUSTRIA
CITIZENSHIP: Austrian citizenship is based upon the Citizenship law of 1965 as amended.
· BY BIRTH: Child born in the territory of Austria, with at least one parent being a citizen of
Austria. However, a child born out of wedlock to a foreign mother and an Austrian father is not
considered a citizen. Unless the couple marries, child obtains the citizenship of the mother.
· BY DESCENT: Child is born abroad, one of whose parents is an Austrian citizen. In case of a
non-Austrian mother and an Austrian father, marriage law listed above applies.
· BY NATURALIZATION: Austrian citizenship can be applied for upon fulfillment of one of the
following conditions:
· Person has lived in Austria for at least 10 years.
· Person has taken up a position as a professor at an Austrian University.
· Person is the foreign spouse of an Austrian citizen and has resided in Austria for at least
five years.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
www.austria.org
24
AZERBAIJAN
CITIZENSHIP: A decree of citizenship is being drafted and will be submitted to the Parliament of
the Republic of Azerbaijan. The information below represents current law.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Azerbaijan does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in Azerbaijan, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Azerbaijan.
· Child born abroad of an Azerbaijani father is granted Azerbaijani citizenship if the mother
does not object.
· REGISTRATION: A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Azerbaijan may register for
citizenship after renouncing her previous citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Azerbaijani citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· Person commits an act that affronts the dignity of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
www.president.az/azerbaijan.htm
25
BAHAMAS
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Constitution of The Bahamas, dated July 10, 1973.
All persons who were citizens of The Bahamas before July 10, 1973, retain their citizenship.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of The Bahamas does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born legitimately in the territory of The Bahamas, at least one of whose parents is a
citizen of The Bahamas.
· Child born abroad legitimately, whose father is a citizen of The Bahamas.
· REGISTRATION: The following persons are eligible to obtain Bahamian citizenship through
registration:
· Foreign woman who marries a citizen of the Bahamas.
· Person (18 years or older), born in the Bahamas, but whose parents were not citizens of
the Bahamas.
· Person (18 years or older), born in wedlock outside the Bahamas to a Bahamian mother.
· Child adopted by Bahamian citizens.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: Parliament has the right to revoke the citizenship of any naturalized citizen.
The following is grounds for involuntary loss of native-born citizenship: Person voluntarily
acquires a foreign citizenship.
26
BAHRAIN
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are governed by the provisions of the Bahraini Nationality Law of
September 16, 1963. For information on persons born before September 16, 1963, contact the
Bahraini Embassy.
· BY BIRTH:
· Child born in territory of Bahrain after September 16, 1963, whose father is a citizen of
Bahrain (born and domiciled), provided the child does not have another nationality.
· Child born in territory of Bahrain after September 16, 1963, of unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child born after September 16, 1963, whose father or grandfather was a
Bahraini citizen by birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: The ruler of Bahrain must approve loss of citizenship, either voluntary or
involuntary. Citizenship lost through involuntary means extends to the person's minor children.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Bahraini citizenship: Person
has voluntarily acquired foreign citizenship.
27
BANGLADESH
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Bangladesh Citizenship Order dated 1972.
Questions concerning persons born before March 26, 1971, should be directed to the Bangladesh
Embassy. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Bangladesh does not automatically confer citizenship.
Only persons born before March 26, 1971 would be deemed Bangladesh citizens by birth.
· BY DESCENT: Rules stated below apply to persons born after March 26, 1971.
· Child born of a Bangladesh father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child whose grandfather was a citizen of Bangladesh, regardless of the child’s country of
birth.
· Child born of a Bangladesh mother and an unknown or stateless father, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
· OTHER: Person who was a permanent resident of Bangladesh on March 26, 1971, is granted
citizenship, unless disqualified by law at that time.
· BY NATURALIZATION:
· A person may apply for citizenship upon investment of $5 million or its equivalent in an
industrial or commercial project of Bangladesh or if the person transfers $1 million to any of
the recognized financial institutions of Bangladesh (the funds may not be withdrawn).
· Application for Permanent Residence may be made upon investment of $75,000 (may not
be withdrawn).
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Bangladesh citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
· Naturalized citizen by investment in Bangladesh removes the investment from the country.
28
BARBADOS
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Barbadian Constitution. (UKC-Commonwealth
Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Child born in the territory of Barbados, regardless of the nationality of the parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born abroad, in wedlock, whose father is a citizen of Barbados. Child must be
registered with the nearest Barbadian diplomatic representative.
· Child born abroad, out of wedlock, whose mother is a citizen of Barbados. Child must be
registered with the nearest Barbadian diplomatic representative.
· REGISTRATION: Foreign woman, who has married a citizen of Barbados, may apply for
citizenship through registration.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
Person should request form REN 1, fill out the form, and return it to the Immigration Office
along with their Barbadian passport. Person will receive form REN 2, a certificate of
renunciation of Barbadian citizenship.
29
BELARUS
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship law is based upon The Law of the Republic of Belarus, Laws of
Citizenship, dated October 18, 1991. Persons who were permanent residents of Belarus during the
adoption of the law remain citizens of Belarus.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Belarus does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born in the territory of Belarus to stateless or unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, both of whose parents are citizens of Belarus, regardless of the country of birth.
· Child, one of whose parents is a citizen of Belarus and who (the parent) was born within
the territory of Belarus.
· Child, born abroad, at least one of whose parents was permanently residing in Belarus at
the time of the child's birth.
· Child, born abroad, one of whose parents is a citizen of Belarus and whose family is living
permanently abroad, gains citizenship only upon the written request of the parents.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Permitted under Belarussian law, provided the person is not involved in any
criminal proceedings and has no outstanding debts or obligations to Belarus. Contact nearest
Belarussian Embassy for information on renouncing citizenship.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Belarussian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship
· Person enlists in the service (military, government, etc.) of another country.
· Citizenship was acquired under false statements.
30
BELGIUM
CITIZENSHIP: Belgian citizenship is based upon the Code of Belgian Nationality, dated June 28,
1984, and amended January 1, 1992.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Belgium does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in Belgium, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Belgium. This same
rule applies for an adopted child.
· Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents was a native-born citizen of Belgium.
Parents have up to five years to register child.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of citizenship can only be made if the person holds
another citizenship or acquires it at the time of the declaration. Renunciations may be sent to
the nearest Belgian Embassy.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Belgian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· Person, born abroad and not in the service of Belgium, who lives abroad from age 18 to
28, without making a declaration of citizenship.
31
BELIZE
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Belize Nationality Act, Chapter 127A of the Laws of
Belize, R.E. 1980-1990. The following persons were granted citizenship at the date of
independence (September 21, 1981):
· Person born in Belize, who was a citizen of the United Kingdom and Colonies (UKC).
· Citizen of the UKC, naturalized in Belize as a British Subject before September 21, 1981.
· Citizen of the UKC, born abroad, whose parents or grandparents were granted Belizean
citizenship.
· Wife of citizen of the UKC who was granted Belizean citizenship.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Belize, on or after September 21, 1981, regardless of
the nationality of the parents. The exception is a child born to certain diplomatic personnel.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, on or after September 21, 1981, at least one of whose
parents is a citizen of Belize.
· MARRIAGE: Foreign national, who marries a citizen of Belize, is eligible to register for
citizenship.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following shall be grounds for involuntary loss of Belizean citizenship by
a person who acquired such citizenship by registration:
· Such Belizean citizen residing outside of Belize for five consecutive years or more.
The following may be grounds for involuntary loss of Belizean citizenship for a person who
acquired Belizean citizenship by registration if such person:
· Has been convicted of an offence under the Belizean Nationality Act; or
· Has been convicted of any offence under Title XIV of the Criminal Code; or
· Was registered as a citizen of Belize by means of fraud, false representation, or the
concealment of material circumstances, or by mistake; or
· Has, within five years after the date of registration as a citizen of Belize, been sentenced in
any court to imprisonment for a term of twelve months or more; or
32
BELIZE (cont.)
· Has, since the date of his becoming a citizen of Belize by registration, been for a period of
not less than two years ordinarily resident in a foreign country of which he was a national
or citizen at any other time prior to that date, and has not maintained a substantial
connection with Belize; or
· Has taken an oath or affirmation of, or made a declaration of, allegiance to a foreign
country; or
· Has so conducted themself that their continuance as a citizen of Belize is detrimental to the
interest of Belize.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship and requests for renunciation of citizenship, should be
directed to the address below:
Embassy of Belize
Consular Section
2535 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20008
www.belizenet.com
33
BENIN
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Law of Civil Rights.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Benin does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born to stateless or unknown parents.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized Beninese
citizenship:
· Naturalized citizenship was obtained through fraud or false statement.
· If naturalized citizen is convicted and jailed for a serious offense (and if the person will be
deported after sentence is served).
34
BHUTAN
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Nationality Law of Bhutan, dated 1958, and the
Bhutan Citizenship Act, dated 1977 and 1985.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Bhutan does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Person born before June 10, 1985: Child of a Bhutanese father who was resident in
Bhutan at the time, regardless of the country of birth.
· Person born on or after June 10, 1985: Child of both a Bhutanese mother and father,
regardless of the country of birth.
· REGISTRATION: On June 10, 1985, citizenship by registration was granted to persons who
had legally resided in Bhutan since before December 31, 1958.
· MARRIAGE: When a Bhutanese woman marries a foreign man, husband and children must
apply for citizenship through naturalization. When a Bhutanese man marries a foreign woman,
the wife must apply for citizenship, while the children are granted Bhutanese citizenship by
descent.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Bhutanese citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship, has left the country, and is residing
abroad or is working for a foreign state.
· Naturalized citizenship was obtained through fraud or falsehoods.
· Naturalized citizen is imprisoned within first 5 years in country.
35
BOLIVIA
CITIZENSHIP: Information about the basis for Bolivian citizenship laws was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Children born within the territory of Bolivia, regardless of the nationality of the
parents. The only exception to this rule is children born to parents in the service of other
governments.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad to either a Bolivian mother or father is granted citizenship
either by returning to live in Bolivia, or by being registered at a consulate.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Bolivian citizenship:
· Person aids the enemy of Bolivia during time of war.
· Person accepts a foreign government job without Senate approval.
· Person acquires the citizenship of a foreign country that does not have a reciprocal dual
citizenship agreement with Bolivia.
Embassy of Bolivia
Consular Section
3014 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20008
36
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
CITIZENSHIP Information concerning citizenship laws was not provided.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship law should be directed to the address below:
37
BOTSWANA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Botswana Constitution and the Citizenship Act
of Botswana dated December 31, 1982. Any person considered a citizen of Botswana born before
December 31, 1982, is still considered a citizen of Botswana (UKC-Commonwealth Nation).
Specific questions concerning people born before December 31, 1982, should be directed to the
Botswana embassy.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the Republic of Botswana does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, whose father is a citizen of Botswana, regardless of the country of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock, whose mother is a citizen of Botswana.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
38
BRAZIL
CITIZENSHIP: Brazilian citizenship is regulated by Law #818 of September 18, 1949, amended by
Decree Law #961 of October 13, 1969, and Constitutional Amendment #3 of June 6, 1994.
· BY DESCENT: Child born outside of the territory of Brazil, at least one of whose parents is a
citizen of Brazil. All children born abroad to Brazilian parents are advised to be registered in
the nearest Consular Office.
· BY MARRIAGE: Marriage to a Brazilian national does not automatically confer citizenship; the
law does reduce the proof of residence in the country for foreigners married to Brazilian
citizens.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
www.brasilemb.org
www.brasil.emb.nw.dc.us
www.ibge.gov.br
39
BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
CITIZENSHIP: The State of Brunei Darussalam became fully sovereign in January of 1984. The
laws concerning citizenship were created to be in accordance with general Islamic law. (UKC-
Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Brunei does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock of a Bruneian father, regardless of the country of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock of a Bruneian mother and unknown or stateless father,
regardless of the country of birth.
· MARRIAGE:
· Marriage of a Bruneian male and a foreign female. The foreign spouse may register for
citizenship after 10 years residency.
· Marriage of a Bruneian female and a foreign male. The foreign spouse must obtain
permanent residency status, possess a means of support, and have resided in Brunei for
15 years.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Bruneian citizenship: Person
voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
[email protected]
www.brunet.bn
40
BULGARIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Law on Bulgarian Citizenship, dated November
1998.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Bulgaria does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born in Bulgaria to unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Bulgaria, regardless of the
country of birth.
· OTHER: The following are eligible for Bulgarian citizenship through other than the normal
naturalization process:
· A stateless person, one of whose parents is of Bulgarian descent.
· A child under 14, adopted by Bulgarian parents.
· Refugees fleeing persecution.
· Persons who have greatly contributed to Bulgarian society.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized citizenship:
· Naturalized citizenship was obtained through fraud or false statement. This revocation only
affects the person who made the false statements. The person's spouse and children may
retain Bulgarian citizenship.
· Person commits criminal acts against the security of the state outside of Bulgaria.
41
BURKINA FASO (Upper Volta)
CITIZENSHIP: Information on the basis for Burkinabe citizenship law was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Burkina Faso does not automatically confer citizenship;
the exception is a child born to unknown parents.
· MARRIAGE: Person who marries a citizen of Burkina Faso may register for citizenship six
months after the marriage.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
42
BURUNDI
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based on the Burundian Nationality Code of August 10, 1971.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Burundi does not automatically confer citizenship. The
only exception is a person born in Burundi who is not a citizen of any state and who has
resided there for 15 years.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born of a Burundian father, regardless of the country of birth.
· Child born of a Burundian mother and an unknown or stateless father, regardless of the
country of birth.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign woman who marries a Burundian citizen may acquire Burundi
nationality two years after the marriage, provided she has renounced her previous citizenship.
43
CAMBODIA (Formerly Kampuchea)
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon Decree No. 913-NS, of November 20, 1954, and Law
No. 904-NS, dated September 27, 1954.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Cambodia does not automatically confer citizenship.
Two exceptions are these:
· Child born in Cambodia, of non-citizen parents who were also born in Cambodia.
· Child of unknown parents found in Cambodian territory.
· MARRIAGE:
· A foreign wife of a Cambodian citizen is eligible for citizenship upon the date of the
marriage.
· A foreign husband of a Cambodian citizen must fulfill all naturalization requirements, but
need reside only for two years.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Cambodian citizenship was permitted under the old
laws. Since the laws and government of Cambodia are in transition, it is unknown how official
voluntary renunciation can presently be achieved.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following have been traditional grounds for involuntary loss of
Cambodian citizenship:
· Person joins a foreign army or a foreign organization against the wishes of the Cambodian
government.
· Person acquires foreign citizenship.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning Cambodian Citizenship Law should be directed to the address
below:
Telephone: 202-726-7742
Fax: 202-726-8381
[email protected]
www.cambodia.org
44
CAMEROON
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon Ordinance #2, dated 1959, and Ordinance #68 dated
1968.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Cameroon does not automatically confer citizenship.
The exceptions are as follows:
· Child born of unknown or stateless parents.
· Child born in Cameroon of foreign parents, at least one of whom was also born in
Cameroon.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock, whose father is a citizen of Cameroon, regardless of the country of
birth.
· Child born out of wedlock to a Cameroonian father and foreign mother, if paternity can be
established.
· Child born out of wedlock to a Cameroonian mother and an unknown or stateless father.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Cameroonian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship. (A Cameroonian woman who marries a
foreign citizen is not required to renounce Cameroonian citizenship.)
· Person is employed in the service of a foreign government.
Fax: 202-387-3826
www.camnet.cm
45
CANADA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Canadian Citizenship Act, dated 1947, the
Citizenship Act, and the Citizenship Regulations dated 1977. All persons who were citizens of
Canada before February 14, 1977 remained citizens of Canada.
Questions concerning persons born before January 1, 1947 (the date of independence), should be
directed to the Embassy. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Person born on or after February 14, 1977, regardless of the nationalities of the
parents. Exceptions to this law include children born to diplomatic personnel and children of
parents who were not legal residents in Canada at the time of the birth.
· BY DESCENT: Person born abroad, on or after February 14, 1977, at least one of whose
parents was a citizen of Canada. Upon reaching the age of 28, if the person has not returned
to reside in Canada and applied to retain citizenship, Canadian citizenship will be revoked.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized Canadian
citizenship:
· Naturalized citizenship was obtained through fraud or false statement.
· Naturalized citizen has spent more than 10 years living abroad.
www.canada.gc.ca/main_e.html
www.cic.gc.ca
www.statcan.ca
46
CAPE VERDE
CITIZENSHIP: Data showing basis for citizenship regulations was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Cape Verde does not automatically confer citizenship.
The exception is a child born to unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Cape Verde, is granted
citizenship regardless of the country of birth.
· MARRIAGE: Person who marries a citizen of Cape Verde is automatically eligible for
citizenship upon request.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
47
CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC
CITIZENSHIP: The basis for the laws on citizenship of the Central African Republic (CAR) is the
Constitution adopted on January 7, 1995.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of the Republic regardless of the nationality of the
parents. The exception is a child born to certain diplomatic personnel.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born abroad of a Central African Republic father.
· Child born abroad of a foreign father and a CAR mother is eligible for CAR citizenship if
desired by the parents. Child is also eligible to retain the citizenship of the father, due to
CAR's recognition of Dual Citizenship.
· MARRIAGE: Foreign national who marries a citizen of the Central African Republic is
automatically eligible for citizenship by registration upon marriage.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized Central African
Republic citizenship:
· Citizenship was obtained by fraud or false statement.
· Person committed serious crimes after obtaining citizenship.
· Person commits acts of disloyalty to the government.
48
CHAD
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Regulation of August 14, 1962.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Chad does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born of unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, both of whose parents are citizens of Chad, regardless of the country of birth.
· Child, one of whose parents is a citizen of Chad, only when the results of non-recognition
would leave the child stateless.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: Chadian law does not address dual citizenship. For all questions
concerning dual citizenship, contact the Chadian Consul.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The President reserves the right to revoke the citizenship of any Chadian
national if it is determined that acts were committed that were not in the interest of Chad.
49
CHILE
CITIZENSHIP: Information concerning the basis for Chilean citizenship law was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Child born in the territory of Chile, regardless of the nationality of the parents. The
exceptions are children of foreign diplomats or of transient foreigners.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Chile, provided
the person establishes a residence in Chile before the age of 21.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Chilean citizenship:
· Person voluntarily obtains foreign citizenship.
· Person gives aid and comfort to wartime enemies of Chile.
Embassy of Chile
Consular Section
1732 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20036
www.segegob.cl/seg-ing/index2i.html
50
CHINA, People’s Republic of China
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship information is based upon The Nationality Law of the People's Republic
of China (PRC), dated September 10, 1980. On December 20, 1999, Macao became a Special
Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. The citizenship laws concerning Macao
are based on the Interpretations of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress on
the Implementation of the Nationality Law of the People’s Republic of China in the Macao Special
Administrative Region, dated December 20, 1999.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of the PRC does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born to unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, at least one of whose parents is a Chinese citizen, regardless of the country of birth.
· Child born abroad, whose parents have settled abroad and the child has acquired the
nationality of the parents’ new country, is not considered a citizen of the PRC.
· Residents of Macao having a Chinese blood relationship, born on the territories of China
(including Macao), as well as other persons of Chinese nationality, whether or not they
hold Portuguese travel certificates or identity cards, are all Chinese citizens.
· Residents of the Macao Special Administrative Region having both a Chinese blood
relationship and a Portuguese blood relationship may, in accordance with their personal
wishes, choose either the nationality of the People’s Republic of China or the nationality of
the Republic of Portugal. Selection of one of the nationalities shall mean the forgoing of
the other nationality.
· BY NATURALIZATION:
· PRC citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of one of the following conditions:
Person has close relatives living in China; person has settled in China; or, the person has
other legitimate reasons.
· Foreign nationals who once held Chinese nationality may apply for restoration of Chinese
nationality if they have legitimate reasons. Once the application is approved the person
may not retain the foreign nationality.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· State functionaries and military personnel are not permitted to renounce PRC citizenship.
Contact the PRC Embassy for details and required paperwork. Final approval for renunciation of
PRC citizenship is granted by the Ministry of Public Security. When dealing with the Embassy,
Chinese speakers are preferred.
51
CHINA, People’s Republic of China (cont.)
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship, or requests for renunciation of citizenship, should be
directed to the address below:
If contact with the Chinese Embassy is difficult, some information may be obtained from either the
State Department's Office of Citizen Consular Services or the Library of Congress's Far Eastern
Law Library.
52
COLOMBIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Constitution of Colombia, dated July 1991, and
Citizenship Law No.43, dated February 1, 1993.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Colombia does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in Colombia, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Colombia.
· Child born in Colombia of foreign national parents, provided at least one of the parents is a
legal resident of Colombia.
· Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Colombia, and the child
later establishes residency in Colombia.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
Note: A former citizen of Colombia, after having renounced Colombian citizenship, will be judged
and sentenced as a traitor if the person acts against the interests of Colombia in a foreign war.
Embassy of Colombia
Consular Section
1825 Connecticut Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20009
53
COMOROS
No information was provided concerning Comoran citizenship laws.
Law Library
Near Eastern and African Law Division
Madison Building RM LM 240
101 Independence Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20540-3060
Telephone: 202-707-5073
Fax: 202-707-1820
www.ksu.edu/sasw/comoros/comoros.html
54
CONGO (Formerly Zaire)
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Congolese Civil Code and the Special Law on
Congolese Nationality (date unknown).
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Congo does not automatically confer citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
55
CONGO REPUBLIC
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Congolese Nationality Code and the Regulation
bringing it into effect on July 29, 1961.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Congo does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exceptions are as follows.
· Child born of unknown or stateless parents.
· Child born of foreign parents, at least one of whom was also born in Congo.
The government of Congo reserves the right to repudiate citizenship claims that fall into
the above categories.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child of a Congolese mother and father, regardless of the country of birth.
· Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Congo and the other of whom was born
in Congo, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child born in Congo, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Congo.
· MARRIAGE: A foreigner who marries a citizen of Congo is eligible for citizenship after five
years communal living in the country.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Congolese citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· Person enters into the service of a foreign state.
· Naturalized citizen is convicted of certain crimes less than 10 years into naturalization.
www.gksoft.com/govt/en/cg.html
56
COSTA RICA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship law is based upon the Constitution of Costa Rica.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of Costa Rica, regardless of the nationality of the
parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Costa Rica.
www.costarica.com/embassy
57
COTE d'IVOIRE (Formerly Ivory Coast)
CITIZENSHIP: Information about the basis for Cote d'Ivoire citizenship laws was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Cote d'Ivoire does not automatically confer citizenship.
The only exception is a child born to unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Cote d'Ivoire, regardless of
the child’s country of birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
www.lcweb2.loc.gov/frd/cs/citoc.html
58
CROATIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are specified in the Law of Croatian Citizenship of June 1991.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Croatia does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born to unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, both of whose parents are citizens of Croatia, regardless of the child’s country of
birth.
· Child born in Croatia, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Croatia.
· Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Croatia, the other either
unknown or stateless.
· Any child-citizen born abroad must be registered.
· INVOLUNTARY: According to the Consulate, there are no reasons for the involuntary loss of
Croatian citizenship. Persons who obtain a new citizenship do not lose their Croatian
citizenship by default. In Croatian law, the persons are still citizens of Croatia until they have
been formally released from their citizenship.
59
CUBA
CITIZENSHIP: The basis for Cuban citizenship laws was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of Cuba, regardless of the nationality of the parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Cuba.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Cuban citizenship: Person
serves in an enemy armed force during time of war.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning Cuban citizenship should be directed to the address below:
60
CYPRUS
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Republic Law of 1967. The legal basis for
citizenship is divided between those born before and those born after August 16, 1960, the date of
independence. All questions regarding Turkish Cyprus should be directed to the Cypriot Embassy.
(UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: All citizens of the United Kingdom and Colonies who were born in Cyprus between
November 5, 1914, and August 16, 1960, and who were resident in Cyprus during the five
years preceding independence (August 16, 1960).
· BY DESCENT: Person born in wedlock, after August 16, 1960, whose father is a citizen of
Cyprus, regardless of the country of birth. In the event the father is unknown or stateless,
Cypriot citizenship may be passed on by the mother.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following reflect grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized Cypriot
citizenship:
· Citizenship was gained under fraud or false statements.
· Person commits acts of disloyalty to the government of Cyprus.
· Person, within five years of being naturalized, begins to live continually abroad without
registering with the Cypriot Consul.
[TURKISH CYPRUS: According to the Cypriot Consul: "An exceptional situation was created in
the part of the territory of the Republic of Cyprus which has remained outside the control of the
Government of Cyprus since the invasion of Cyprus by Turkish troops in the summer of 1974. The
Republic of Cyprus continues to recognize the citizenship and right to citizenship of all Turkish
Cypriots and Cyprus Republic passports are issued to any persons who can provide proper
documentation. However, the Republic of Cyprus does not consider those alien persons who have
settled illegally and without its permission in the areas under control of the Turkish forces as
legitimate claimants to Cypriot citizenship."]
61
CZECH REPUBLIC
CITIZENSHIP: Czech citizenship laws are based on an Act of January 1, 1993, of the Czech
National Council on Acquisition and Loss of Citizenship, as amended by Law 272 dated October
12, 1993, on Law 140 dated June 28, 1995, and on Law 139 dated April 26, 1996. Any individual
who was jointly a citizen (Czechoslovakian), or was a citizen of the Czech and Slovak Federal
Republic on December 31, 1992, shall become a citizen of the Czech Republic.
· BY BIRTH:
· Birth within the Czech Republic does not automatically confer citizenship.
· Persons under 17 years old, found in the Czech Republic, shall acquire Czech citizenship,
if such person does not have citizenship of another country.
· Child born in the territory of the Czech Republic to stateless parents, one of whom has
permanent residency in the Czech Republic.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of the Czech Republic.
· Child born out of wedlock, whose mother is not a Czech citizen, is only granted citizenship
if their father is a Czech citizen. Either of the parents must declare paternity or a court
judgement assigns paternity.
· OTHER: Any person who was a Czechoslovakian citizen up to December 31, 1992, and has
not specified whether they are a Czech or Slovak citizen can choose Czech citizenship. They
may proclaim this either at local district offices in the Czech Republic or at the Czech
Embassies abroad.
· BY NATURALIZATION: Czech citizenship can be applied for upon fulfillment of the following
conditions: Person has resided within the Czech Republic for at least five years, possesses
knowledge of the Czech language, has renounced previous citizenship, and has not been
convicted of a crime in the previous five years. The five year residency requirement may be
waived if the person has permanent residency and falls under any of the following categories:
· Person was born in the territory of the Czech Republic.
· Person was a citizen of the Czech Republic or Czechoslovakia.
· Person is married to a Czech citizen.
· An adopted child, one of whose parents is a Czech citizen, shall acquire Czech citizenship
at the date of adoption.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
62
CZECH REPUBLIC (cont.)
ANY QUESTIONS concerning Czech citizenship, or requests for renunciation of citizenship, should
be directed to the address below:
63
DENMARK
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based on Danish Nationality Law. Embassy officials state that
Danish Nationality law is very complicated; they recommend contacting the Danish Embassy with
any questions, particularly concerning dual citizenship.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Denmark does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born in Denmark to unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Denmark, regardless of the
child’s country of birth. Restrictions apply if the child is born prior to January 1, 1979, and only
the mother is a citizen of Denmark.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Person seeking to voluntarily renounce Danish citizenship must contact the
nearest Danish Embassy, present proof of acquisition of new citizenship, and sign documents
renouncing citizenship. These forms will be forwarded to Denmark by the Embassy for
registration. The person will receive a confirmation of loss of citizenship from the Danish
government.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Danish citizenship: Voluntary
acquisition of foreign citizenship.
http://www.denmarkemb.org
[email protected]
www.denmark.org
64
DJIBOUTI
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based on Law No.200/AN/81 of October 24, 1981. Those who were
citizens before June 27, 1977, retain their citizenship.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Djibouti does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born to unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child whose father is a citizen of Djibouti, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child born in Djibouti, of a Djibouti mother and an unknown father.
· REGISTRATION: Foreign national, who marries a citizen of Djibouti, may apply for citizenship
after two years of marriage.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Djibouti citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
· Person is condemned for an act against the national security of the country.
· Person is a member of a foreign army or international organization and refuses to
terminate employment or cease participation on orders from the government of Djibouti.
65
DOMINICA
CITIZENSHIP: No information was provided.
Telephone: 202-364-6781
66
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon Article 11 of the Dominican Constitution.
· BY BIRTH: Child born in the territory of the Dominican Republic, regardless of the nationality
of the parents. The exception is a child of a diplomatic representative.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
67
ECUADOR
CITIZENSHIP: Ecuadorian citizenship law is based on the Constitution of Ecuador of 1998.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territorial limits of the Republic of Ecuador, regardless of the
nationality of the mother or father.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born abroad, of a native born Ecuadorian father or mother, who later becomes
resident of the Republic or expresses the desire to be Ecuadorian.
· Child born abroad, of a native born Ecuadorian father or mother, while either parent carried
out an official appointment or was exiled for political reasons, unless he or she expresses a
desire (regarding the child’s citizenship) to the contrary.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
68
EGYPT
CITIZENSHIP: Egyptian citizenship laws are based on Law #17, promulgated on June 22, 1958.
The law is based on the concept of legitimate descent.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the country of Egypt does not automatically confer citizenship.
Citizenship by birth is only granted under the following conditions:
· Child born in Egypt, out of wedlock, to an Egyptian mother, when the father is unknown or
stateless, is considered a citizen of Egypt.
· Child born in Egypt of unknown parents is automatically granted Egyptian citizenship.
However, a woman who marries a foreign national and declares her intention to acquire her
husband's nationality can lose her Egyptian citizenship without prior authorization and thus would
not acquire this form of dual citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: (See "Exceptions” to “Dual Citizenship" above for explanation of need for
prior authorization in renunciation of citizenship.) In all cases of loss of citizenship, a presidential
decree is required. Due to the uncertainty created by the emphasis on prior authorization,
questions pertaining to loss of citizenship should be directed to the Egyptian embassy.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Egyptian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily obtains foreign citizenship.
· Person commits certain offenses.
· Person who takes permanent residency abroad will lose citizenship after six months.
69
EGYPT (cont.)
QUESTIONS concerning citizenship should be directed to the address below:
www.sis.gov.eg
www.idsc.gov.eg
70
EL SALVADOR
CITIZENSHIP: Salvadoran citizenship law is based on the Salvadoran Constitution.
· BY BIRTH: Child born in El Salvador, regardless of the citizenship of the mother or father.
· OTHER: El Salvador recognizes a special citizenship designation for natives of other states
that constituted the Federal Republic of Central America, who, having domicile in El Salvador,
declare before a competent authority their desire to be Salvadoran.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED. Salvadorans by birth have the right to enjoy double or
multiple citizenship. This right is not extended to those whose citizenship was acquired through
naturalization.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized citizenship:
· Residing more than two consecutive years in the country of birth.
· Absence from the territory of the republic for more than five years, unless official
permission is granted.
· Final legal judgement, decree, or sentence by legitimate Salvadoran representative.
71
EQUATORIAL GUINEA
CITIZENSHIP: Information on the basis for Equatorial Guinean citizenship laws was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of Equatorial Guinea is granted citizenship,
regardless of the nationality of the parents. The only exception is a child born to foreigners in
the service of their country.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Equatorial
Guinea.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
72
ERITREA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Eritrean Nationality Proclamation.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Eritrea does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born of unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Eritrea, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
· ORIGIN: Person who was a resident of Eritrea prior to 1934 is considered to have "Eritrean
origin" and is granted citizenship.
· BY NATURALIZATION: Naturalization laws for Eritrea are divided into two time periods: 1934
to 1951, and 1951 to the present.
1934 to 1951:
· Eritrean nationality is granted to non-citizens who had entered and resided in Eritrea
during the period of 1934 to 1951.
1951 to Present:
· Person has entered Eritrea legally and resided continually for 10 years before 1974 or
20 years if many trips abroad were made.
· Person has renounced previous citizenship, speaks one of the languages of Eritrea,
plans to permanently reside in the country, has adequate financial support, and has
never been convicted of a crime.
· MARRIAGE: Non-citizens who marry Eritrean nationals may be granted citizenship if the non-
citizen has lived in the country at least three years after marriage and has renounced previous
nationality. Citizenship may be revoked upon an attempted readoption of the previous
citizenship or a divorce from the citizen spouse.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Permitted under Eritrean law. Contact embassy representatives of the Eritrean
government for guidelines on renunciation.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Eritrean citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires another citizenship.
· Person voluntarily serves the interests of another country.
· Naturalized citizen has been sentenced to more than five years in prison or gained
citizenship under false pretenses.
73
ESTONIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Estonian Law passed by the Riigikogu (the
Parliament) on January 19, 1995, with an effective date of April 1, 1995.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Estonia does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born to unknown parents.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Estonian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
· Person has entered into the military or civilian service of a foreign state.
74
ETHIOPIA
CITIZENSHIP: Data was not provided.
Embassy of Ethiopia
Consular Section
2134 Kalorama Rd., NW
Washington, DC 20008
75
FIJI
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship law for the Republic of Fiji is based on the 1997 Federal Constitution.
All those who were citizens before October 1987 retain their citizenship.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of Fiji, with at least one parent being a citizen of Fiji.
· BY DESCENT: Child born outside the territory of Fiji, with the father being a citizen of Fiji.
· BY NATURALIZATION: Fijian citizenship can be applied for upon fulfillment of one of the
following conditions:
· Person must have resided in Fiji for a continuous period of five years.
· Person must have resided in Fiji for a continuous period of 12 months, and over a 10 year
period, have resided in Fiji for an aggregate of at least five years.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: Parliament has the right to revoke the citizenship of any naturalized citizen.
In the case of native-born Fijians, citizenship can be involuntarily revoked for the following
reasons:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· For the dual citizenship exception, when foreign citizenship is not renounced before 22nd
birthday.
76
FINLAND
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Finnish Citizenship Act of June 28, 1968,
amended in 1984.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Finland does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child who is stateless or whose parents are unknown.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock of a Finnish father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock of a Finnish mother, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Finnish citizenship: Person
who acquires a foreign citizenship by enlisting in the service of another country.
Embassy of Finland
3301 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20008
77
FRANCE
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the French Nationality Code.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of France, regardless of the nationality of the
parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of France.
· MARRIAGE: The spouse of a French citizen can apply for French citizenship after one year of
marriage with no residency requirement.
The following persons have no residency requirement and may seek naturalization:
· Person who has rendered exceptional service to France.
· Person who has served in a combat unit of the French Army.
· Person who is the spouse or minor child of a person acquiring French citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: Final authority for loss of citizenship lies with the French government.
· VOLUNTARY: Contact the French Embassy for details and proper paperwork.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of French citizenship: Person
serves in a foreign military or civil service and has not complied with French orders to leave
such service.
Embassy of France
Consular Office
4101 Reservoir Rd., NW
Washington, DC 20007-2185
www.france-consulat.org
www.info-france-usa.org
www.france.org
78
GABON
CITIZENSHIP: Basis for citizenship law was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Gabon does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born to unknown parents within Gabon.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
79
GAMBIA, THE GAMBIA
CITIZENSHIP: Based upon the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia. (UKC-
Commonwealth Nation) As a former British colony, Gambian citizenship laws are divided to
accommodate people born before and after independence. The division date is February 18, 1965.
Unless otherwise stated, laws listed are general in nature and apply both to those born before and
after independence. Specific questions dealing with persons born before February 18, 1965,
should be directed to the Gambian Embassy.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of The Gambia, regardless of the nationality of the
parents. The only exception is children born to non-citizens when the father is an accredited
representative of a foreign power.
· REGISTRATION: Woman married to a citizen of The Gambia is entitled, upon making the
proper application, to be registered as a citizen of The Gambia.
The Gambian government is debating changes to Gambian laws concerning dual citizenship.
Questions concerning this issue should be directed to the Gambian Embassy.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Gambian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· Person voluntarily claims or exercises any rights accorded to citizens of a foreign country.
80
GEORGIA
CITIZENSHIP: Information was not provided.
www.parliament.ge
81
GERMANY
CITIZENSHIP: Based upon German citizenship law, the principle of descent from the parents (jus
sanguinis), and, after January 1, 2000, jus soli.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the Federal Republic of Germany does not automatically confer
citizenship. However, from January 1, 2000, citizenship will be acquired by birth in Germany if
one parent has lived in the country for eight years.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock whose father or mother is a citizen of Germany.
· Child born out of wedlock whose father is stateless or unknown and whose mother is a
citizen of Germany.
· Child born out of wedlock to a foreign woman and a German father will be granted German
citizenship upon the legitimization (recognition) of the child by the German father.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: The law allows Germans to petition for a release from German citizenship if
they have applied for the acquisition of foreign citizenship and the authorities of the foreign
state have stated that they will be naturalized. Petitions may be directed to the federal
government in Germany or the nearest German Embassy.
www.germany-info.org
www.undp.org/missions/germany
www.government.de/english/01/newsf.html
82
GHANA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship law is based upon the Constitution of Ghana of April 1992. Every
person who was a citizen of Ghana before the date of the Constitution remains a citizen of Ghana.
(UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Ghana does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child, born since the constitution, of unknown parents.
· MARRIAGE: Foreign national who marries a citizen of Ghana is eligible to apply for citizenship
by registration. If the marriage ends in divorce, death, or annulment, both may retain Ghanian
citizenship, however, a registered male will be asked to prove the marriage was entered into in
good faith.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized Ghanian
citizenship:
· Person is shown to be a threat to Ghanian security, interests, or morality.
· Citizenship was obtained through fraud, or false statement.
Embassy of Ghana
Consular Section
3512 International Dr., NW
Washington, DC 20008
83
GREECE
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Code of Greek Citizenship, amended in 1968
and 1984.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Greece does not automatically confer citizenship. The
only exceptions are abandoned children or children of stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock, of a Greek father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock, of a Greek mother and an unknown or stateless father,
regardless of the child’s country of birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: A person may not acquire a foreign citizenship until they have received
permission from the Ministry of the Interior to renounce Greek citizenship. One cannot assume
Greek citizenship to be lost by default.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Greek citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
· Person undertakes service with a foreign country.
· Person has committed acts contrary to the national interest of Greece.
Embassy of Greece
Consular Section
2221 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20008
www.hiway.gr/gi
84
GRENADA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Grenada Constitution Order, dated December 19,
1973. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation) The following persons were granted citizenship on February
7, 1974:
· Person born in Grenada, on or before February 6, 1974, who was a citizen of the United
Kingdom and Colonies.
· Citizen of the UKC who, on or before February 6, 1974, was naturalized in Grenada as a
British Subject.
· Person born abroad, on or before February 6, 1974, whose mother or father was granted
Grenadian citizenship.
· Spouse of a person who was granted Grenadian citizenship, if married before February 6,
1974, is entitled to register for Grenadian citizenship.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of Grenada, on or after February 6, 1974, regardless
of the nationality of theIr parents. The exception is a child born to certain diplomatic personnel.
· BY DESCENT: Person born abroad, on or after February 6, 1974, at least one of whose
parents is a citizen of Grenada.
· MARRIAGE: Foreign person who marries a citizen of Grenada, on or after February 6, 1974,
is able to register for Grenadian citizenship.
· BY REGISTRATION: Persons born abroad after February 7, 1974, of at least one Grenadian
parent, may be registered as a Grenadian citizen.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: There is no specificity about on the grounds for involuntary loss of Grenadian
citizenship. However, the constitution states that only citizenship gained by registration or
naturalization may be revoked.
85
GUATEMALA
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of Guatemala, regardless of the nationality of the
parents, including birth on any Guatemalan ship or aircraft.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Guatemala.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Guatemalan citizenship:
Person voluntarily acquires the citizenship of a foreign country (other than those nations with
which dual citizenship agreements exist).
Embassy of Guatemala
Consular Section
2220 R St., NW
Washington, DC 20008
86
GUINEA
CITIZENSHIP: Information was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Guinea does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born to unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child of a Guinean father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child of a Guinean mother and an unknown father, regardless of the child’s country of
birth.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Guinea is eligible for citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Guinean citizenship: The
person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
87
GUINEA-BISSAU
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Law of Nationality, dated 1973.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of Guinea-Bissau, regardless of the nationality of the
parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Guinea-Bissau.
· BY REGISTRATION: The following persons are eligible for citizenship through registration:
· Foreign person whose grandparents were citizens of Guinea-Bissau.
· Foreign person who marries a citizen of Guinea-Bissau.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Guinea- Bissauain
citizenship:
· Person obtains new citizenship.
· Person is employed by a foreign government or armed force without permission of the
Guinean-Bissauain government.
· Naturalized citizenship was obtained through fraud or false statement.
· Naturalized citizen lives more than a year abroad without registering with the local
consulate.
88
GUYANA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Constitution of Guyana, dated 1980. Persons who
were citizens of Guyana before the date of the Constitution remain citizens of Guyana. Persons
who were already spouses of these people are entitled to register as citizens of Guyana. (UKC-
Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Child born after 1980 in the territory of Guyana, regardless of the nationality of the
parents. The exception is a child born to parents who are diplomatic personnel, neither of
whom is a citizen of Guyana.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad after 1980, either of whose parents is a native-born citizen
of Guyana.
· MARRIAGE: Foreign citizen who marries a citizen of Guyana after 1980 is eligible to register
for citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
Embassy of Guyana
Consular Section
2490 Tracy Pl. NW
Washington, DC 20008
89
HAITI
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Constitution of Haiti.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the Republic of Haiti does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a native-born citizen of Haiti, regardless
of the child’s country of birth. Child born abroad must be registered at the nearest Haitian
consulate or embassy for the citizenship to be recognized.
· VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of citizenship must take place in the country, before the
Justice Department, Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Haitian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· Person holds a political post in the service of a foreign government.
· Naturalized Haitian citizen maintains continuous residence abroad without authorization by
Haitian authority.
www.haiti.org/embassy/
90
HONDURAS
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Honduran Constitution.
· BY BIRTH:
· Child born within the territory of Honduras, regardless of the nationality of the parents.
Children of diplomats are excluded.
· Child born on a Honduran vessel or aircraft of war or on a merchant vessel located in
Honduran territorial waters, regardless of the nationality of the parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Honduras.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: The citizenship of those whose citizenship was acquired through
marriage, and that of their children, is not revoked upon dissolution of that marriage.
Embassy of Honduras
Consular Section
1528 K Street NW (First Floor)
Washington, DC 20005
[email protected]
www.hondorus.com
91
HUNGARY
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon Law #55 dated June 1, 1993.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Hungary does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born to unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Hungary, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
Contact the Consulate General of the Republic of Hungary, Consular Section, 223
nd
52 Street, New York, NY 10022, Consular Telephone 212-752-0661. Office
hours: Monday to Friday 9:30 - 12:30.
Consulate General in Los Angeles covers the following states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho,
Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah,
Washington, and Wyoming.
www.hungaryemb.org
92
ICELAND
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Icelandic Nationality Act, dated December 23,
1952, amended May 11, 1982, and June 12, 1998. Iceland maintains agreements with the Nordic
Contracting States (Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden). Questions concerning these
countries should bedirected to the appropriate Embassy.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock of an Icelandic mother or father, regardless of the child’s country of
birth.
· Child born out of wedlock to an Icelandic woman, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock by an unmarried mother who is a foreign national and the father
is an Icelandic national and the paternity is established in accordance with Icelandic law.
www.iceland.org
93
INDIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Citizenship Act of 1955. Despite the variety of
states, peoples, and languages in India, the law recognizes only Indian citizenship. (UKC-
Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of India, regardless of the nationality of the parents.
Though the law of India does recognize citizenship through birth in the country, unless the
citizenship is actively applied for, the Indian government does not consider the child a citizen of
India. The person has the right to return to India upon reaching the age of 18 and applying for
Indian citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born of an Indian father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child of an Indian mother and a foreign father is considered an Indian citizen if the mother
and child continue to live in India and the father does not give the child his country's
citizenship.
· Child born out of wedlock to an Indian mother, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Children born abroad must be registered at an Indian Consulate.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Indian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
· Naturalized citizenship was acquired through false statements.
· Naturalized citizen commits acts against the state of India before the end of a five-year
grace period.
Embassy of India
Consular Section
2107 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20008
www.nic.in
www.indianembassy.org
www.tourindia.com/
94
INDONESIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Nationality Laws of Indonesia, dated January 1,
1946, and amended on August 1, 1958. Questions concerning persons born before January 1,
1946, should be directed to the Embassy.
· BY BIRTH:
· Child born in the territory of Indonesia, between January 1, 1946, and August 1, 1958,
regardless of the nationality of the parents.
· Birth in the territory of Indonesia, on or after August 1, 1958, does not automatically confer
citizenship. The exception is a child born to unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born abroad, between January 1, 1946, and August 1, 1958, of an Indonesian father
or of an Indonesian mother and an unknown father.
· Child born on or after August 1, 1958, of an Indonesian father, regardless of the child’s
country of birth.
· Child born on or after August 1, 1958, of an Indonesian mother and an unknown father,
regardless of the country of birth.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Indonesia may obtain Indonesian
citizenship upon revocation of previous citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Indonesian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship; without permission from Indonesian
Minister of Justice.
· Person joins official military of a foreign country; without permission from Indonesian
Minister of Justice.
· Person conducts official tasks of an organization the Indonesian Government is not a
member of and, according to Indonesian rules, the tasks are normally carried out only by a
citizen of the country and requires him to take an oath to be devoted to the foreign country.
· Person has a valid passport or other documents, in lieu of a passport, of foreign country on
their behalf.
· Person freely takes part in the official election of a foreign country, without any obligation.
· Because of other than official tasks, lives in foreign country continuously for five years
without declaring intention to still be an Indonesian citizen and fails to declare citizenship
for two years consecutively.
95
INDONESIA (cont.)
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship, or requests for renunciation of citizenship, should be
directed to the address below:
96
IRAN
CITIZENSHIP: Based upon the Iranian Civil Code.
· BY BIRTH: In general, birth within the territory of Iran does not automatically confer
citizenship. The following are instances where birth within the territory of Iran does confer
citizenship:
· Child born to unknown parents.
· Child born to non-citizens, one of whom was born within Iran.
· Child born to non-citizens, who, after reaching the age of 18, continues to reside within Iran
for at least one year.
· BY DESCENT: Child born to an Iranian father regardless of the child’s country of birth.
The wives and minor children (under 18) of naturalized Iranian citizens are also considered
Iranian citizens.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Person seeking to voluntarily renounce Iranian citizenship must have reached
the age of 25, have performed military service, have settled all affairs in the country, and
acquired the permission of the Council of Ministers. Though the rules for renunciation of
citizenship are stated in Iranian Law, practical experiences have shown that Council
permission is difficult to obtain, thus hindering legal renunciation of Iranian citizenship.
· INVOLUNTARY: Voluntary acquisition of a foreign citizenship does not lead to automatic loss
of Iranian citizenship. According to Iranian law, any Iranian national who acquires foreign
citizenship without due observance of legal procedures will not have a renunciation of
citizenship recognized by the government of Iran. In the eyes of the government, a male (and,
in some cases, his wife and children) is still considered a citizen of Iran, regardless of the
individual's status in the new country of citizenship.
Telephone: 202-965-4990/1/2/3/4/9
Fax: 202-965-1073/2050
97
IRAQ
CITIZENSHIP: Information was not provided.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship, and requests for renunciation of citizenship, should be
directed to the address below:
Telephone: 202-483-7500
Fax: 202-462-5066
www.iragi-mission.org
98
IRELAND
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act of 1956.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of Ireland, regardless of the citizenship of the
parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, whose father or mother or grandparent was an Irish citizen
by birth.
· MARRIAGE: Foreigner who marries an Irish citizen can apply for Irish citizenship after three
years of marriage.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
Embassy of Ireland
Consular Section
2234 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20008
www.irelandemb.org
www.cso.ie/index.html
www.genuki.org.uk
99
ISRAEL
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Citizenship Law of 1952 and amended in 1968.
· Any Jew who immigrated to Israel before July 14, 1952, was granted citizenship after declaring
a desire to reside permanently in Israel.
· Any former citizen of Palestine, present in Israel before July 14, 1952, was granted citizenship
upon fulfillment of certain (unspecified) conditions.
· Any Jew or a member of a family of a Jew who immigrates to Israel after expressing their
intention to settle in Israel, if from the date of their arrival as an immigrant, unless, being above
the age of eighteen and a foreign citizen, they declare within three months from the date of
arrival, that they do not wish to become an Israeli citizen. A "member of a family" of a Jew
includes a spouse, a grandchild, and spouses of the child or grandchild of a Jew.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Israel does not automatically confer citizenship.
· Being born in Israel to a citizen of Israel.
· Stateless person, born in Israel after May 14, 1948, is able to apply for citizenship between
their 18th and 21st birthdays, provided they have resided in Israel for at least five years
before application.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born on or after July 14, 1952, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Israel,
regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· A person born outside Israel while a parent was an Israeli citizen by Return (a
‘renaturalized’ Jew), Residence, or Naturalization.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Voluntary loss of citizenship is permitted by law. Contact the Embassy for
details and required paperwork.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized Israeli
citizenship: Naturalized citizen either fails to renounce previous citizenship or voluntarily
acquires new citizenship after obtaining Israeli citizenship.
100
ITALY
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship law is based upon the Italian Law on Nationality amended February 5,
1992.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Italy does not confer citizenship.
Exceptions: A child born to unknown parents, and a child born in Italy, who resides there
legally and uninterruptedly until reaching age 18, and who specifically requests Italian
citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is an Italian citizen, regardless of the
child’s country of birth. Italian law makes provisions for citizenship to be granted to persons
with specific familial ties to Italy.
· MARRIAGE: Person who marries an Italian national is eligible for citizenship unless person
has been involved in any criminal proceeding.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED. Amendment dated August 16, 1992, states those Italian
citizens who acquire U.S. citizenship will retain Italian citizenship unless they voluntarily renounce
their Italian citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation is permitted by Italian law, though is not required when
acquiring a foreign citizenship. Contact Embassy for details and required paperwork.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Italian citizenship: Person
voluntarily chooses to serve in the military of a foreign state, especially during a declared state
of war.
Embassy of Italy
Consular Section
1601 Fuller St., NW
Washington, DC 20009
www.istat.it
101
JAMAICA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Jamaican Nationality Act of 1962, amended March 2,
1993. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Child born in the territory of Jamaica, regardless of the nationality of the parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Jamaica.
· MARRIAGE: Person, who marries a citizen of Jamaica, is eligible for Jamaican citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Jamaican citizens do not lose their Jamaican citizenship upon the acquisition
of a foreign citizenship. Any citizen of Jamaica wishing to renounce Jamaican citizenship must
be granted permission by the government of Jamaica. Requests for renunciation must be sent
to:
The Ministry of National Security
12 Ocean Boulevard
Kingston Mall, Jamaica
Embassy of Jamaica
1520 New Hampshire Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20036
www.jamaica.com
102
JAPAN
CITIZENSHIP: Japanese citizenship is regulated by the Nationality Act of May 4, 1950.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Japan does not automatically confer Japanese
citizenship. Only in the case of a child whose parents are unknown or stateless is the child
considered a Japanese citizen.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, whose father is a citizen of Japan, regardless of the child’s country of birth. This law
also applies if the father dies before the birth of the child.
· Child born to Japanese mother and unknown or stateless father.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
www.embjap.org
www.mofa.go.jp
103
JORDAN
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Jordanian Citizenship Act of 1954.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Jordan does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child born of a Jordanian father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
Preference is given to those of Arab descent. The following are also considered citizens of
Jordan:
· Person of Arab descent who was habitually resident in Transjordan in 1928.
· Person of Palestinian Arab nationality before May 15, 1948, who was habitually resident in
Jordan at the coming into force of the 1954 Act.
· Person of Arab blood continually resident in Jordan for five years.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: A Jordanian may neither lose Jordanian citizenship nor acquire the
nationality of another state (other than an Arab State) without the consent of the Board of Ministers.
· VOLUNTARY: Jordanian law permits voluntary renunciation, with the permission of the Board
of Ministers. Contact the Embassy for details and required paperwork. A fee is assessed and
the renunciation must be further approved by the Ministry of the Interior.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Jordanian citizenship,
though loss is not recognized until permission is granted by the board of Ministers:
· Person commits misconduct that undermines the security of the state.
· Person joins the Armed Forces of another state.
www.nic.gov.jo
104
KAZAKHSTAN
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Law on Citizenship for the Republic of
Kazakhstan, dated March 1, 1992.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Kazakhstan does not automatically confer citizenship.
The exception is a child born of unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Person born in Kazakhstan before March 1, 1992, who has maintained residence in the
country.
· Child of a Kazak mother or father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· OTHER: Child born abroad, whose mother or father has legal permanent residency in
Kazakhstan.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
Embassy of Kazakhstan
Consular Section
3421 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20007
www.undp.org/missions/kazakhstan
105
KENYA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are contained in the Kenyan Constitution.
· BY BIRTH: Every person born in Kenya after December 11, 1963, becomes a citizen of Kenya
if, at the date of birth, at least one parent is a citizen of Kenya. This rule does not apply if:
· The father possesses immunity from lawsuit and legal process as accorded to the envoy of
a foreign State accredited to Kenya.
· The father is a citizen of a country with which Kenya is at war and the birth occurs in a
place then under occupation by that other country.
· BY DESCENT: Any person born outside Kenya after December 11, 1963, becomes a citizen
of Kenya at the date of birth, if at that date, their father is a citizen of Kenya.
· BY REGISTRATION: Any woman who has been married to a citizen of Kenya is entitled to be
registered as a citizen of Kenya. Certain other (unspecified) persons are eligible to be
registered as citizens by virtue of other connections with Kenya after December 11, 1963.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: Not recognized except for persons under 21 years old.
· INVOLUNTARY:
· The government may, by order after such procedures as may be prescribed by Parliament,
deprive of their citizenship of Kenya any person who is a citizen by registration or
naturalization on grounds specified (not identified) by the Constitution.
· A person who, upon the attainment of the age of 21 years is a citizen of Kenya and also a
citizen of some country other than Kenya, ceases to be a citizen of Kenya upon the
specified date unless he has renounced his citizenship of that other country and has taken
the oath of allegiance.
· VOLUNTARY:
· Retaining citizenship of another country.
· Acquiring citizenship of some other country.
· A citizen of Kenya shall cease to be such a citizen if, having attained the age of 21 years,
acquires citizenship of some country other than Kenya by voluntary act (other than
Marriage); or, having attained the age of 21 years, otherwise acquires the citizenship of
some country other that Kenya and has not, by specified date, renounced citizenship of
that other country, taken the oath of allegiance, and made and registered such declaration
of intentions concerning residence as may be prescribed by or under an Act of the Kenyan
Parliament.
106
KENYA (cont.)
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship, or requests for renunciation of citizenship, should be
directed to the address below:
107
KIRIBATI (Formerly the Gilbert Islands)
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship information is based on the Kiribati Independence Order dated July 12,
1979. These persons were eligible for automatic citizenship on Independence Day, July 12, 1979:
· Person of Kiribati descent (i.e., person descended from those born in Kiribati before 1900) who
was born in Kiribati and was a citizen of the United Kingdom and Colonies (UKC).
· Person not of Kiribati descent, but who was born in Kiribati.
· Person of Kiribati descent, or a citizen of the UKC, who was naturalized in Kiribati.
· Person of Kiribati descent, a citizen of the UKC, born abroad, whose father was a citizen of
Kiribati.
· Foreign woman who was married to person eligible for Kiribati citizenship.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Kiribati, on or after July 12, 1979, does not automatically
confer citizenship. The only exception is a child born to unknown or stateless parents.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: There are no grounds for the loss of citizenship for those of Kiribati descent.
The following are grounds for involuntary loss of all other forms of Kiribati citizenship:
· Person voluntarily obtains foreign citizenship, except by marriage.
· Person exercises rights or privileges, or submits to any requirements, of a foreign state.
· Naturalized citizenship that was obtained through fraud or falsity.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning Kiribati Citizenship Law should be directed to the addresses below:
Law Library
American-British Law Division Rm. LM 240
Library of Congress/Madison Building
Washington, DC 20540-3020 - Telephone: 202-707-5077 - Fax: 202-707-1820
The Republic of Kiribati does not have an embassy in the United States; the Ambassador for the
Marshal Islands is the accredited representative of Kiribati in the United States.
108
KOREA, NORTH (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea)
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Nationality Law of October 9, 1963. Persons who
were citizens of the territory of Korea at the establishment of the People's Republic, May 1, 1948,
were granted North Korean citizenship on that date.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of North Korea does not automatically confer citizenship.
The exception is a child born of unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· A child born of a North Korean mother and father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· A child born in North Korea, of a North Korean citizen and a foreign national.
· The citizenship of a child born abroad of parents of mixed nationality, one of whom is a
North Korean citizen, is to be determined by the parents.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: There are no grounds for involuntary loss of North Korean citizenship.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning North Korean citizenship laws should be directed to:
Telephone: 212-772-0712/0725/0748
Fax: 212-772-0735 - [email protected]
Or
CA/OCS/CCS/EAP RM 4817
U.S. Department of State
2201 C St., NW
Washington, DC 20520-4818
Telephone: 202-647-7717
Fax: 202-647-7388
North Korea does not have diplomatic representation in the United States. Citizenship information
was provided by the U.S. State Department's Office of Citizen Consular Services.
109
KOREA, SOUTH (Republic of Korea)
CITIZENSHIP: Korean citizenship is governed by the Nationality Act of December 13, 1997, later
amended.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of the Republic of Korea does not automatically confer
citizenship.
· A person who is born in the Republic of Korea of unknown parents.
· An abandoned child found in the Republic of Korea is recognized as born in Korea.
· BY DESCENT:
· A person whose father or mother is a national of the Republic of Korea at the time of the
child’s birth.
· Child whose father is a Korean national is automatically considered a Korean citizen
regardless of the child’s place of birth, even if the father died before the child was born.
· GENERAL: Specific conditions apply when there is no blood or marital tie. Under this
circumstance, Korean citizenship will be granted upon the fulfillment of these conditions:
· Person has resided in the Republic of Korea for five years or more.
· Person shall be of majority pursuant to the Civil Act of the Republic of Korea.
· Person shall be of good conduct.
· Person must have the ability to provide an independent livelihood.
· Person must have a basic knowledge of the Korean language and understand Korean
customs.
· Person must obtain permission of the Minister of Justice.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
110
KOREA, SOUTH (cont.)
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Korean citizenship:
· Person acquires the citizenship of a foreign spouse or adoptive parent, or any other
voluntary acquisition of foreign citizenship.
· Person has obtained an annulment or divorce and their Korean citizenship was acquired
through marriage.
· Person, after six months of Korean citizenship, has still not renounced previous citizenship.
111
KUWAIT
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Constitution of Kuwait.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Kuwait does not automatically confer citizenship.
Kuwait has a large number of guest workers living in the country; Kuwaiti law considers them to
be citizens of their country of origin. Children born in Kuwait of long term guest residents do
not qualify for citizenship. In all cases, unless the child is born to a Kuwaiti citizen, the child is
born a citizen of the parents’ home country.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock, whose father is a citizen of Kuwait, regardless of the child’s country
of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock, to a Kuwaiti mother and an unknown father, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
· MARRIAGE:
· A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Kuwait may obtain citizenship after 15 years
residency.
· A foreign man who marries a citizen of Kuwait is not eligible for citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
www.kuwait-info.org
www.moc.kw
112
KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based on the draft Constitution, dated May 5, 1993.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Kyrgyz Republic does not automatically confer
citizenship. The exception is a child of unknown or stateless parents who have been
permanently residing in the Kyrgyz Republic and who plan to continue residing in the country.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child of both a Kyrgyz mother and father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child born in the Kyrgyz Republic at least one of whose parents is a citizen of the Kyrgyz
Republic.
· Child born abroad, both of whose parents are Kyrgyz citizens.
· For a child born abroad, one of whose parents is not a Kyrgyz citizen, the parents choose
which nationality the child will possess.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Kyrgyz citizenship: Person
acquires foreign citizenship.
[email protected]
www.kyrgyzstan.org
113
LAOS
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Law of Laotian Citizenship, dated November 29,
1990.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Laos does not confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child born of a Laotian mother or father, regardless of the child’s country of
birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary renunciation of Laotian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship, though persons in this situation should
not assume Laotian citizenship would simply be lost by default.
· Naturalized citizenship was obtained by fraud or false statement.
· Naturalized citizen has engaged in behavior detrimental to the state of Laos.
www.loaembassy.com/discover/index.htm
114
LATVIA
CITIZENSHIP: The citizenship regulations are set in the Citizenship Law of the Republic of Latvia.
· BY DESCENT:
· A child whose parents were citizens of Latvia on the day of birth, regardless of the child’s
place of birth.
· If, at the time of birth, one of the parents is a citizen of Latvia and the other parent is an
alien, if the child was born in Latvia..
· A child born outside of Latvia, but both parents otherwise permanently reside in Latvia.
· A child born outside of Latvia, but the parent with whom the child lives otherwise
permanently resides in Latvia.
· If, at the time of birth, one parent is a citizen of Latvia and the other parent is an alien and
the permanent place of residence of both parents is outside Latvia, then the child's
citizenship shall be decided upon by mutual agreement of the parents.
· If, at the time of birth, one parent is a Latvian citizen and the other parent is stateless or is
unknown, then the child shall be a Latvian citizen regardless of the child’s place of birth.
· BY MARRIAGE: The marriage of a Latvian citizen to an alien or a stateless person, and the
dissolution of such marriage, shall not cause a change in citizenship of Latvian citizens. The
acquisition or loss of the citizenship of Latvia by one spouse does not affect the citizenship of
the other spouse.
· BY NATURALIZATION:
· A person can be granted the citizenship of Latvia through naturalization, upon their
request.
· The citizenship of Latvia shall be granted through naturalization only to those who are
registered in the Residents’ Registry and who comply with other (unspecified) conditions
established by the Citizenship Law.
LOSS OF CITZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY:
· Any person, who is a citizen of another state or has been guaranteed the citizenship of
another state, shall be entitled to renounce Latvian citizenship.
An application to renounce citizenship can be denied if the person has not fulfilled
obligations to the state or if the person has not fulfilled military service obligations. A
decision to deny an application for the renunciation of citizenship can be appealed to the
courts.
115
LATVIA (cont.)
· INVOLUNTARY: Latvian citizenship may be revoked by a decision of a Regional Court, if:
· Person has acquired the citizenship of another state without submitting an application for
renunciation of citizenship of Latvia.
· Person is serving in the armed forces, military forces, security service, police (militia), or is
employed in a juridical institution of a foreign state, without permission from the Cabinet of
Ministers;
· Person has intentionally provided false information when verifying their right to hold Latvian
citizenship or has illegally obtained the citizenship of Latvia.
The revocation of Latvian citizenship shall not affect the citizenship of the person's spouse,
children, or other family members.
www.latvia-usa.org
www.csb.lv
116
LEBANON
CITIZENSHIP: The basis for citizenship laws was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the Republic of Lebanon does not confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· A child whose father is a citizen of Lebanon is considered to be a Lebanese citizen.
All children of Lebanese descent born outside of Lebanon must be registered at the
Lebanese embassy or the child's Lebanese citizenship will not be automatically granted.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
Lebanese citizenship, voluntarily renounced, can be reacquired if the reasons for renunciation
no longer apply.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Lebanese citizenship:
· Person engages in the service of a foreign state.
· Person commits an offense against the security of the Lebanese state.
www.erols.com/lebanon/stat.htm
117
LESOTHO
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Lesotho Citizenship Order, dated 1971, and the
revised Constitution, dated 1993. Questions concerning persons born on or before October 3,
1966 (independence), should be directed to the Embassy. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Child born after October 3, 1966, within the territory of Lesotho, regardless of the
nationality of the parents. The exception is a child born of parents who are not citizens and
whose father works in a diplomatic capacity.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born abroad, after October 3, 1966, whose father is a citizen.
· Child born abroad, after October 3, 1966, whose mother is an unmarried Lesothan citizen.
· MARRIAGE:
· A foreign woman who was already married to a man who became a citizen of Lesotho on
October 3, 1966, is granted citizenship upon application.
· A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Lesotho after October 3, 1966, can apply for
citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Lesothan citizenship:
· Any citizen voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship other than through marriage.
· Naturalized/Registered (N/R) citizenship…
· Was obtained through fraud or false statement.
· Citizen displays acts of disloyalty to Lesotho.
· Citizen, within five years of citizenship, is convicted of a crime and sentenced to at
least five years imprisonment.
· Citizen has resided abroad more than seven years without registering intention to
remain a citizen of Lesotho.
· Citizen has claimed rights or privileges of citizens of another country.
118
LIBERIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Constitution of the Republic of Liberia. The
Liberian Constitution states that, "In order to preserve, foster, and maintain the positive Liberian
culture, values, and character, only persons who are Negroes or of Negro descent shall qualify by
birth or by naturalization to be citizens of Liberia."
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Liberia does not automatically confer citizenship. The
only exception is a child born to unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Liberia, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Liberian citizenship: Person
above the age of majority (18) acquires a foreign citizenship.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship of Liberia should be directed to the address below:
Telephone: 202-723-0437
Fax: 202-723-0436
119
LIBYA
CITIZENSHIP: Information is based upon the Nationality Law #17, dated 1954, and Law #3, dated
1979. Persons born before October 7, 1951 (date of Libyan Constitution), who did not have a
previous citizenship and had been residing in Libya, obtained citizenship under the following
conditions:
· Person was born in Libya.
· Person was born abroad of a mother or father born in Libya.
· Person had been living in Libya for at least 10 years before October 7, 1951.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Libya, on or after October 7, 1951, does not
automatically confer citizenship.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Libya may obtain Libyan citizenship if
she renounces former citizenship, resides with her husband in marriage for at least two years,
and notifies the Minister of Foreign Affairs of her desire to obtain Libyan citizenship. If the
marriage ends in divorce, the woman's citizenship will only be removed if she remarries a non-
Libyan and leaves the country.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Libyan citizenship:
· Person obtains new citizenship without government permission.
· Person enlists in foreign military or attempts to avoid Libyan conscription.
· Person seeks asylum in another country.
· Person attempts to smuggle money out of the country.
· Person converts to a religion other than Islam.
· Person deserted country after 1969 revolution.
· Person refuses to return home within 6 months of state request.
· Person commits treasonous acts against the state.
120
LIBYA (cont.)
ANY QUESTIONS concerning Libya should be directed to the address below:
NEA/MAG Rm 5250
U.S. Department of State
2201 C St., NW
Washington, DC 20520
Telephone: 202-647-4674
Fax: 202-736-4458
Law Library
Near Eastern and African Law Division
Madison Building RM LM 240
101 Independence Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20540-3060
Telephone: 202-707-5073
Fax: 202-707-1820
121
LITHUANIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Law on Citizenship of the Republic of Lithuania,
dated December 5, 1991. Questions concerning persons born before June 15, 1940, should be
sent to either the Consulate General of Lithuania in New York or in Chicago.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within Lithuania does not automatically confer citizenship. The exception is a
child of unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, both of whose parents are citizens of Lithuania, regardless of child’s country of birth.
· Child born abroad, one of whose parents is a citizen of Lithuania.
· Child born abroad, one of whose parents is a citizen of Lithuania with permanent residence
in Lithuania.
· MARRIAGE: Foreigner who marries a citizen of Lithuania must fulfill all the basic
naturalization requirements except that residency requirement is three years after marriage.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Lithuanian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
· Person lives abroad over 3 years without government permission.
· Person enters the civilian or military service of a foreign state.
www.std.lt
122
LUXEMBOURG
CITIZENSHIP: Luxembourg citizenship is governed by the Law of January 1, 1987. This Law is
based on the principle of descent (jus sanguinis).
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Luxembourg does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child whose father or mother is a citizen of Luxembourg, regardless of the child’s country
of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock to a foreign mother and Luxembourger father is considered a
citizen of Luxembourg if paternity is legally established.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Luxembourger citizenship:
· Voluntary acquisition of a foreign citizenship.
· Grave crime against the State of Luxembourg (applies only to naturalized citizens).
Embassy of Luxembourg
Consular Section
2200 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20008
123
MADAGASCAR
CITIZENSHIP: Malagasy citizenship is based upon Ordinance No.60-064, dated July 22, 1960.
Malagasy nationality law is based on descent from the father (jus sanguinis).
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the Republic of Madagascar does not automatically confer citizenship.
Citizenship is only granted automatically in cases of abandoned children.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, born in wedlock, whose father is a citizen of Madagascar.
· Child, born out of wedlock to Malagasy mother, when the child’s father is stateless or
unknown
· MARRIAGE: Foreign woman, who marries a citizen of Madagascar, can obtain citizenship by
declaration. After marriage, wife must make a declaration to an officer of the State of her
desire to obtain Malagasy citizenship. Citizenship is granted upon this declaration on a two-
year probationary basis.
A Malagasy citizen, who upon marriage to a foreign spouse obtains a foreign citizenship, is not
required to renounce their Malagasy citizenship unless it is a requirement (of their other
citizenship).
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Malagasy citizenship:
· Person voluntarily obtains foreign citizenship.
· Person marries a foreign national and resides permanently abroad.
· Person convicted of crime against the security of the State.
[email protected]
www3.itu.ch/missions/madagascar
124
MALAWI
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Malawi Citizenship Act, dated July 6, 1966. Every
person who was a citizen of Malawi before July 6, 1966, continues to be a citizen of Malawi. (UKC-
Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Malawi does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born of unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in Malawi, on or after July 6, 1966, whose father or mother is a citizen of Malawi
and is of African race.
· Child born abroad, on or after July 6, 1966, one of whose parents is a native-born citizen of
Malawi of African race.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized or registered
Malawian citizenship:
· Person exercises rights or privileges of another country.
· Citizenship was obtained through fraud or false statements.
· Person has been arrested and imprisoned within seven years of citizenship.
· Person has shown disloyalty or treason against Malawian government.
· Person has been resident outside Malawi for seven years or more without proper
registration with Consulate.
125
MALAYSIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Constitution of Malaysia.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Malaysia does not automatically confer right to
citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock, both of whose parents are citizens of Malaysia, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
· Child born in wedlock, in Malaysia, of a Malaysian mother and a foreign father.
· Child, born in wedlock, abroad, of a Malaysian mother and a foreign father, obtains father's
citizenship.
· Child born out of wedlock, in Malaysia, of a Malaysian mother.
· A child born out of wedlock, outside of Malaysia, to a Malaysian mother, is not considered
a citizen of Malaysia. The child may return to Malaysia with the mother with a permanent
residency status and may apply for citizenship later.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Malaysia may obtain citizenship
through registration. However, citizenship is revoked if the marriage is dissolved by divorce or
annulment within the first two years.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Malaysian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· Registered or Naturalized citizen…
· Comes under criminal sentence at home or abroad within five years after gaining
citizenship.
· Shows disloyalty to the country and Government of Malaysia.
· Works for a foreign government without permission of the Malaysian government.
· Resides continuously abroad for more than five years without registering with
Malaysian Embassies or Consulates.
· Citizenship was obtained through fraud or false statement.
126
MALDIVES
CITIZENSHIP: Information on the basis of Maldivian citizenship law was not provided. (UKC-
Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of the Maldives does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born of a Maldivian father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child born of a Maldivian mother and an unknown or stateless father, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
· MARRIAGE: Foreign spouses of Maldivian citizens are not automatically granted citizenship,
and are not required to obtain Maldivian citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: There are no provisions for the involuntary loss of Maldivian citizenship.
Persons who acquire a new citizenship should not assume that they have lost their Maldivian
citizenship by default.
www.maldives-info.com
www.undp.org/missions/maldives/
127
MALI
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Code of Nationality, regulation No.95-098 of 1995.
This regulation replaced No.62-18 of February 3, 1962.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Mali does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born to unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child of a Malian mother or father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· MARRIAGE:
· A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Mali may register for citizenship after the
marriage, with no residency requirements.
· A foreign man who marries a citizen of Mali may register for citizenship three years after
the marriage.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Malian citizenship (pending
current review of Dual Citizenship laws):
· Malian woman marries a foreign national and adopts her spouse's citizenship.
· Naturalized Malian citizen commits crimes or other actions not in the interest of the Malian
state or people, within the first 10 years of naturalization.
128
MALTA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship for the Republic of Malta is based on the 1964 Constitution, as
amended, and the Maltese Citizenship Act. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH:
· Persons born between September 21, 1964 and January 8, 1989: Child born within the
territory of Malta, regardless of the nationality of the parents.
· Persons Born On or after January 8, 1989: Birth within the territory of Malta does not
automatically confer citizenship.
· Persons born in the territory of Malta, on or before September 21, 1964: Child of a
Maltese-born parent.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born on or before September 21, 1964: Child born abroad, whose father or paternal
grandparents were born in Malta and who were also citizens of the United Kingdom and
Colonies (UKC).
· Child born between September 21, 1964 and January 8, 1989: Child born abroad, whose
father was a citizen of Malta.
· Child born on or after January 8, 1989: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is
a citizen of Malta.
· Child born between September 21, 1964 and January 8, 1989: Child born abroad, whose
mother was a citizen of Malta; conditional citizenship circumstances, contact Embassy)
· REGISTRATION: Foreign national who marries a citizen of Malta is eligible to register for
Maltese citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
129
MARSHALL ISLANDS
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Immigration Law of the Marshall Islands and the
Constitution of the Marshall Islands, dated December 21, 1978.
A person, who before December 21, 1978, was a citizen of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands,
became a citizen of the Marshall Islands if either the person or the person's parents had land
rights.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of the Marshall Islands does not automatically confer
citizenship. The exception is a child born in the Marshall Islands who would otherwise be
stateless.
· BY DESCENT: A person born on or after December 21, 1978, at least one of whose parents
was a citizen of the Marshall Islands.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Marshallese citizenship:
· Person has voluntarily acquired foreign citizenship, other than through marriage to a
foreign national.
· Registered or Naturalized citizen…
· Citizenship was gained through fraud or false statement.
· Advocated the overthrow of the Marshallese government.
· Commits treason or espionage against the government.
130
MAURITANIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are governed by the Nationality Code of June 12, 1961.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Mauritania does not automatically confer citizenship.
Exceptions:
· Child born in Mauritania of a parent who, though not a citizen, was also born in Mauritania.
· Child born in Mauritania to non-citizen parents (citizenship after a five year waiting period).
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Mauritanian citizenship:
Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship and does not fall into any exempted
categories.
131
MAURITIUS
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Mauritius Independence Order of March 4,
1968. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Child born in the territory of Mauritius, regardless of the nationality of the parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born abroad in wedlock, whose father is a citizen of Mauritius.
· Child born abroad and out of wedlock, whose mother is a citizen of Mauritius.
· All citizen-children born abroad must be registered in Mauritius.
· MARRIAGE:
· A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Mauritius is automatically granted citizenship by
registration.
· A foreign man who marries a citizen of Mauritius can be granted citizenship on an
individual case basis.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
Embassy of Mauritius
Consular Section
4301 Connecticut Ave., NW STE 441
Washington, DC 20008
www.embassy.org/mauritius
132
MEXICO
CITIZENSHIP: Mexican citizenship is based on the Federal Constitution as amended March 20,
1998.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of Mexico, regardless of the nationality of the
parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born abroad to Mexican parents.
· Child born aboard military/civilian Mexican ship or plane.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: (Not specified.) Mexican law establishes a distinction between nationality
and citizenship. The 1998 Amendment recognized Mexican nationality transmitted by birth,
restricting nationality to the first generation born abroad. It also preserved Mexican nationality by
birth, when adopting a foreign nationality. Mexicans abroad holding Mexican nationality will be
treated with legal equality in Mexico; specifically, they will keep patrimonial rights, access to
reserved areas of investment, and the ability to inherit without restriction.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Mexican citizenship:
· Person receives a foreign title or honor.
· Person who has been naturalized lives for 5 years in original country of birth.
· Person who has been naturalized attempts to pass as a foreigner on public documents or
uses a foreign passport.
Consulate of Mexico
Consular Section
2827 16th St., NW
Washington, DC 20009 Embassy Telephone: 202-728-1600
Consular Telephone: 202-736-1000/01/02
Fax: 202-797-1793
www.embassyofmexico.org
www.inegi.gob.mx/homeing/homeoneg/homeing.html
[email protected]
133
MICRONESIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Citizenship and Naturalization Act of May 10, 1979
(date of independence). All persons who were citizens of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands
prior to the date of independence are considered citizens of Micronesia.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Micronesia does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents was a citizen of the Trust Territory before
independence or was a citizen of Micronesia after independence.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Micronesian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· Person declares formal allegiance to a foreign state.
· Person enters the service of foreign armed forces. (Service in the armed forces of the
United States is permitted in certain cases.)
· Person votes in a political election of a foreign state.
134
MOLDOVA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Law of Citizenship, dated June 23, 1990. All who
resided in the territory of Moldova before June 23, 1990, and have a viable means of support, may
obtain citizenship automatically upon request.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Moldova does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Moldova, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: No information was provided. The Law on Citizenship states that Moldovan
citizenship may be revoked for certain (unspecified) reasons.
Telephone: 202-667-1130
FAX: 202-667-1204
www.moldova.org
135
MONACO
CITIZENSHIP: Based upon the Acquisition of Monegasque Nationality, dated January 1, 1987.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Monaco does not automatically confer citizenship. The
only exception is a child born in Monaco to unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock, whose father is a citizen of Monaco, regardless of the child’s country
of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock, whose mother is a citizen of Monaco and whose father is
unknown.
· Child born out of wedlock to Monegasque citizens -- citizenship granted upon marriage of
parents.
· Children of naturalized citizens are automatically granted citizenship.
· MARRIAGE:
· A foreign woman who marries a Monegasque man is automatically eligible for
Monegasque citizenship.
· A Monegasque woman who marries a foreigner retains her Monegasque citizenship unless
prevented by the laws of her husband's country.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Permitted under Monegasque law. Additional information was not provided.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Monegasque citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· Person voluntarily performs military service abroad.
Telephone: 212-286-0500
Fax: 212-286-1574
[email protected]
www.monaco.mc/usa
136
MONGOLIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Constitution of Mongolia, dated January 13, 1992, to
be updated. Information herein was characterized by the Mongolian Consul as the best information
available.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Mongolia does not automatically confer citizenship.
Children of unknown or stateless parents may apply to the President for citizenship, but
citizenship will not be granted automatically.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, both of whose parents are citizens of Mongolia, regardless of the child’s country of
birth.
· Child, one of whose parents is a citizen of Mongolia, is not automatically granted
citizenship; the parents have the option of requesting Mongolian citizenship for the child
from the President's Office.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
Embassy of Mongolia
Consular Section
2833 M St., NW
Washington, DC 20007
www.mongoliaonline.mn/english
137
MOROCCO
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is governed by the code of Moroccan Nationality, dated September 6,
1958.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Morocco does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child of a Moroccan father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child of a Moroccan mother and an unknown or stateless father, regardless of the child’s
country of birth.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign woman who marries a Moroccan citizen can become a Moroccan
citizen by declaration after two years residency and marriage.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Moroccan citizenship
(unless the government has previously permitted the activity):
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
· Moroccan woman marries a foreign national and acquires the husband's citizenship.
· Person serves in the military or public employment of a foreign state and refuses the
Moroccan government's demand that they resign.
138
MOZAMBIQUE
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Law of Nationality, of 1975, amended November
1990.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Mozambique does not automatically confer citizenship.
Exceptions:
· A child of foreign citizens, born in the territory of Mozambique, is eligible to register for
citizenship upon turning age 18.
· A child born in Mozambique of non-citizens, both of whom were also born in Mozambique,
is granted citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in Mozambique, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Mozambique.
· Child born abroad, whose father is a citizen of Mozambique. (Child of a foreign father and
Mozambican mother obtains father's citizenship if child is born abroad.)
· Child born abroad of a Mozambican mother and an unknown father.
· MARRIAGE:
· A foreign woman who marries a Mozambican man may register for citizenship immediately.
· A foreign man who marries a Mozambican woman must reside in Mozambique for five
years before registering for citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Mozambican citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a new citizenship.
· Person becomes an agent of a foreign country without the permission of the government.
www.mbendi.cd.za/cymzcy.htm
139
MYANMAR (Formerly Burma)
CITIZENSHIP: Information on the basis for Myanmar citizenship law was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Myanmar does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, both of whose parents are citizens of Myanmar, regardless of the child’s country of
birth.
· Child born in Myanmar of a Myanmar mother and an unknown father
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
The Myanmar Embassy states that most citizens of Myanmar wishing to relinquish citizenship,
rather than formally renouncing citizenship, simply fail to renew their internally required
passports. Once a passport has expired, citizenship is automatically lost.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Myanmar citizenship: Person
acquires a foreign citizenship.
www.myanmar.come/e-index.html
140
NAMIBIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Constitution of the Republic of Namibia, dated
March 21, 1990, the date of independence. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Namibia does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child of unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Persons born before March 21, 1990, born in Namibia, of parents who were legal residents
in Namibia.
· Persons born after March 21, 1990, born in wedlock, at least one of whose parents is a
citizen of Namibia, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock to a Namibian mother and an unknown or stateless father.
· MARRIAGE: Foreigner who marries a citizen of Namibia may apply for citizenship two years
after marriage.
· REGISTRATION: Persons were eligible to register for citizenship up to one year after
independence if they were ordinarily resident in Namibia at the time of independence, had lived
in the country for at least five years, and had renounced their previous citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Namibian citizenship:
· Person has voluntarily acquired foreign citizenship
· Person has volunteered to serve in the armed forces of another country without
government permission.
· Person has lived abroad more than two years without written permission of the Namibian
government.
141
NAURU
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Nauruan Community Ordinance of 1956 - 1966, as
well as the Constitution of Nauru, dated January 30, 1968. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
According to the 1968 Constitution, a person who, on January 30, 1968, was included in one of the
classes of persons who constituted the Nauruan Community in the Nauruan Community
Ordinance, is a citizen of Nauru.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Nauru does not automatically confer citizenship. Only in
the case of persons born in the territory who would otherwise be stateless is citizenship
automatically granted.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born on or after January 31, 1968, one of whose parents was a Nauruan citizen at the
time of the child's birth, even if the parent dies before the child is born.
· Child born on or after January 31, 1968 of a marriage between a Nauruan citizen and a Pacific
Islander and neither parent has within seven days after birth declared that the child is not a
Nauruan citizen.
· MARRIAGE: A woman, who is not a Nauruan citizen, who marries a Nauruan citizen, is
entitled to apply to become a Nauruan citizen.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
Library of Congress
Law Library, Directorate of Legal Research
Western Law Division
James Madison Memorial Building, Rm. LM-240
Washington, DC 20540-3230
Telephone: 202-707-7850
Fax: 202-707-1820
Nauru has no diplomatic representation in the United States. It has a consulate in Agana, Guam.
142
NEPAL
CITIZENSHIP: Nepalese citizenship is based on the Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal,
updated and amended in 1990, and the Nepal Citizenship Act of 1964.
· BY DESCENT:
· A child whose father is a citizen of Nepal at the time of the child’s birth.
· Child found within the Kingdom of Nepal whose parents are not known, until the father of
the child can be traced.
· OTHER:
· Woman married to a citizen of Nepal, who has initiated steps to renounce her previous
citizenship.
· Person is an internationally distinguished professional who has applied for Nepalese
citizenship, and is granted an honorary Nepalese citizenship.
· Whenever any territory is incorporated into the Kingdom of Nepal, every person having
domicile within such territory shall become a citizen of Nepal.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY:
· Voluntary renunciation of citizenship, when living in Nepal, may be directed to the Office of
the Chief District Officer in any major city.
· If abroad, renunciations may be sent to the nearest consular section of a Nepalese
embassy.
www.info-nepal.com
143
NETHERLANDS
CITIZENSHIP: Dutch citizenship is based upon the Nationality Act of 1984.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of the Netherlands does not automatically confer
citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock, one of whose parents is a Dutch citizen.
· Child adopted, one of whose parents is a Dutch citizen and the adoption is in accordance
with Dutch law.
· Child born out of wedlock whose mother is a Dutch citizen.
· Child born out of wedlock, of a foreign mother and Dutch father -- citizenship will not be
granted until the child is legitimized and recognized by the Dutch father.
Questions concerning dual citizenship and what constitutes involuntary acquisition of a foreign
citizenship are not entirely clear in Dutch courts. In cases where the status of Dutch dual
citizenship is unclear, contact the Dutch consulate for clarification.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Dutch citizenship: Voluntary
acquisition of foreign citizenship.
144
NEW ZEALAND
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Constitution of New Zealand, dated January 1, 1949.
New Zealand is a member of the British Commonwealth (See United Kingdom); thus, New
Zealanders born before January 1, 1949, have had a variety of citizenship status under British and
New Zealand law. Questions concerning persons born before January 1, 1949, should be directed
to the Embassy. (UKC-Commonwealth)
· BY BIRTH: Child born in the territory of New Zealand after January 1, 1949, regardless of the
nationality of the parents.
Exception: Child born to foreign diplomats while they are posted to New Zealand, unless one
parent is a New Zealand citizen.
· BY DESCENT: Birth outside of New Zealand on or after January 1, 1978, and at the time of
birth, one parent was a New Zealand citizen other than by descent (such as by birth in New
Zealand or through a Grant of Citizenship). Application for official recognition of this status
must be made before the person attains the age of 22.
· GRANT OF CITIZENSHIP: A person may apply for a Grant of New Zealand Citizenship
after having resided as a permanent resident in New Zealand for a least three consecutive
years. This applies to spouses of New Zealand citizens.
· SECTION 10 GRANT OF CITIZENSHIP: The Minister shall authorize the grant of New
Zealand Citizenship to any person who was born outside of New Zealand from January 1,
1949, to January 1, 1978, and whose mother was a New Zealand citizen other than by
descent.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: There are no laws concerning involuntary loss of New Zealand citizenship.
Given that New Zealand recognizes dual citizenship, those concerned with the possibility of
dual citizenship should not assume naturalization by another country caused their previous
citizenship to be lost by default.
145
NEW ZEALAND (cont.)
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship, or requests for renunciation of citizenship, should be
directed to the address below:
www.stats.govt.nz/statsweb.nsf
146
NICARAGUA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Constitution of Nicaragua.
· BY BIRTH:
· Child born within the territory of Nicaragua, regardless of the nationality of the parents.
Exception: Children of foreign officials serving international organizations or their own
countries, unless the parents choose to solicit Nicaraguan citizenship for the child.
· Child born to unknown parents, found within the territory, until parentage becomes known.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born abroad, one of whose parents is a citizen of Nicaragua.
· Child born abroad, whose mother or father was formerly Nicaraguan, if the child applies for
citizenship after reaching the age of majority.
· BY NATURALIZATION:
· Child of foreign parents, born on a Nicaraguan boat or airplane, if the parents apply for
naturalization of the child.
· Child born abroad, whose mother or father was formerly Nicaraguan.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
Embassy of Nicaragua
Consular Section
1627 New Hampshire Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20009
147
NIGER
CITIZENSHIP: Information on the basis for Nigerienne citizenship laws was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of Niger, regardless of the nationality of the parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a Nigerienne citizen, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Nigerian citizenship: Person
voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
148
NIGERIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, dated
1989. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
Those born before or on the date of independence, October 1, 1960, whose parents or
grandparents were born in Nigeria and who were legally residing in Nigeria at the time, are
considered citizens of Nigeria.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Nigeria does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Nigeria, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
· REGISTRATION: The following persons are eligible to become citizens through registration:
· A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Nigeria.
· Person who is of adult age (17), born outside Nigeria, any of whose grandparents is or was
a citizen of Nigeria.
· A foreign child adopted by Nigerian parents.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Nigerian citizenship:
· Registered or Naturalized citizen voluntarily acquires the citizenship of a foreign country.
· Naturalized citizen, before seven years of residence, sentenced to prison for three years or
more.
· Registered or Naturalized citizen is convicted of acts of disloyalty to the Republic of
Nigeria.
149
NORWAY
CITIZENSHIP: Defined by the Norwegian Nationality Act of December 8, 1950.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Norway does not automatically confer citizenship. Only
in rare cases will citizenship be granted. Abandoned children of unknown parents are
considered Norwegian citizens.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock acquires Norwegian nationality if the father or mother is a Norwegian
national.
· Child born out of wedlock acquires Norwegian nationality if the mother is a Norwegian
national.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of citizenship is granted under the condition that a new
citizenship has been granted or soon will be granted. Letters of renunciation may be sent to
nearest Norwegian Embassy.
150
OMAN
CITIZENSHIP: Basis for Omani citizenship law was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Oman does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child of an Omani father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
Child of an Omani mother and an unknown or stateless father is not granted citizenship; the
child is given an internal passport and is considered a resident alien.
· MARRIAGE:
· Foreign woman who marries a citizen of Oman is granted citizenship by registration after a
few (unspecified) years of marriage and residency in the country.
· Foreign man who marries a citizen of Oman is not eligible for Omani citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: There are no grounds for the automatic involuntary loss of Omani
citizenship.
151
PAKISTAN
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Pakistan Citizenship Act of April 13, 1951.
(UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Child born after April 13, 1951, in the territory of Pakistan, regardless of the country
of birth. The exceptions are the children of certain diplomatic personnel.
· Persons born in Pakistani territory on or before April 13, 1951 are granted citizenship
· Person who was born in Pakistan or whose parents or grandparents were born in Pakistan
and who had permanently resided in the country since August 14, 1947.
· A person naturalized as a British subject in Pakistan, and who had renounced any foreign
citizenship acquired after birth.
· Person who before April 13, 1951 had migrated to Pakistan from the Indo-Pakistan
subcontinent with the intention of residing permanently in Pakistan.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born after April 13, 1951 of a native-born Pakistani father, regardless of the child’s
country of birth.
· Child born abroad after April 13, 1951, of a Pakistani father not born in Pakistan, is a
citizen only if the child is registered at the nearest Pakistani Consulate or Mission.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Pakistan is eligible for Pakistani
citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Pakistani citizenship:
· Person obtains foreign citizenship.
· Naturalized citizenship was obtained through fraud or falsity.
· Naturalized citizen shows disloyalty to government.
· Naturalized citizen is convicted of a crime in first five years of citizenship.
· Citizen has resided outside the country for over seven years without registering with the
Pakistani Consulate.
Embassy of Pakistan
Consular Section
2315 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20008
152
PALAU
CITIZENSHIP: Palau became an independent nation in 1994; citizenship laws are taken from the
1994 Constitution.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Palau.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Palauan citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
· Person has willfully lied or concealed information in applying for citizenship.
· Person advocates or participates in actions against the security of the nation of Palau.
· Person fraudulently or illegally entered the Island of Palau prior to or after naturalization.
Telephone: 202-452-6814
Fax: 202-452-6281
153
PALESTINE, PALESTINE NATIONAL AUTHORITY
FOR THE WEST BANK AND GAZA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are being developed for the region governed by the Palestine
National Authority. The Oslo Agreement of 1993 empowered the Palestine National Authority for
the West Bank and Gaza to issue Palestinians passports for this region.
The Agreement of 1993 authorized the following people to be issued passports from the Palestine
National Authority:
· Current residents of the West Bank
· Current residents of Gaza
· Palestinian refugees returning to the Palestine Authority
Telephone: 202-785-8394
Fax: 202-887-5337
154
PANAMA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship regulations are outlined in the Panamanian Constitution.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of the Republic of Panama, regardless of the
nationality of the parents.
· Nationals by birth of Spain, or of any Latin American state, become citizens of Panama
under different conditions. Rather than follow the general requirements, the petitioner is
instead obligated to fulfill the same conditions that would apply to a Panamanian national
wishing to seek citizenship in the petitioner's country of origin.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Panamanian citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· Person enters the service of an enemy state.
155
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Citizenship Act, dated February 13, 1976, and the
Constitution, dated September 16, 1975. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH:
· Persons born before September 16, 1975: Person born in the country, whose maternal
and paternal grandparents were also born in the country.
· Children of unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Person born before September 16, 1975: Person born abroad, whose maternal and
paternal grandparents were born in the country. Person must also have been registered
and, if over 19, have renounced any other citizenships.
· Person born on or after September 16, 1975: Child, at least one of whose parents is a
citizen, regardless of the child’s country of birth; however, child born abroad must be
registered no later than one year after birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Papua New Guinean
citizenship: (These rules do not apply when the action is under the compulsion of another
country's laws.)
· Person voluntarily obtains foreign citizenship, other than through marriage.
· Person exercises the rights of a citizen of a foreign country.
· Person takes an oath of allegiance to another country.
· Person joins a foreign armed force without government permission.
· Person travels under the passport of another country.
· Naturalized citizenship was obtained through fraud.
156
PARAGUAY
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Paraguayan Constitution.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of the Republic of Paraguay, regardless of the
nationality of the parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born abroad, one of whose parents is a natural-born Paraguayan and who is in the
service of the Republic.
· Child born abroad, one of whose parents is a natural-born Paraguayan, if the child takes
up permanent residency in Paraguay and has not exercised rights or complied with
obligations inherent in the citizenship of the country of birth.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED (only native-born Paraguayans may hold dual citizenship).
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are conditions for the involuntary loss of naturalized
Paraguayan citizenship:
· Voluntary acquisition of a foreign citizenship.
· Unjustified absence from the country for more than three years.
157
PERU
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Constitution of Peru dated October 31, 1993,
and Nationality Law No.26574 dated January, 1996.
· BY BIRTH:
· Persons born in the territory of the Republic of Peru are citizens; eligible for registration at
age 18.
· Person younger than 16 years old, in a state of abandonment, who reside in the territory of
Peru.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, whose father or mother is a citizen of Peru. The granted
right of citizenship by descent is recognized to the descendants until the third generation.
· REGISTRATION:
· Foreign woman or man who marries a citizen of Peru; the spouse naturalized by marriage
does not lose Peruvian nationality in the event of divorce or the spouse’s death.
· Person (18 years or older), born in Peru, but whose parents were not citizens of Peru.
· Person (18 years or older), born in wedlock outside of Peru to Peruvian mother or father.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED. Peruvians by birth who adopt the nationality of another
country do not lose their Peruvian nationality unless they express renunciation before competent
government authority.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: Acquired Peruvian nationality granted under Nationality Law No.26574 is
lost for expressed renunciation before the General Address of Migrations or consular offices
overseas, and for the following reasons:
· For crimes against the State and the national defense.
· For crimes against the Public Security by illicit traffic of drugs.
· For crimes of terrorism and betrayal of the nation.
· Peruvians by birth who adopt the nationality of another country do not lose their Peruvian
nationality unless they express renunciation before competent government authority.
Other information, relating to Voluntary or Involuntary loss of citizenship, was not provided.
158
PHILIPPINES
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Constitution of the Philippines dated February
2, 1987. Citizens of the Philippines prior to the adoption of the Constitution are still citizens.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of the Philippines does not automatically confer
citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of the Philippines, regardless of the child’s
country of birth.
· Child born before January 17, 1973, of a Filipino mother, who elects Philippine citizenship
upon reaching the age of majority (21).
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Filipino citizenship: Person
voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
www.census.gov.ph
159
POLAND
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is governed by the Constitution of the Republic of Poland and the
Citizenship Act of February 15, 1962.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of the Republic of Poland does not automatically confer
citizenship. A child who was born in or is found within the territory of Poland acquires
citizenship if both parents are unknown, whose citizenship cannot be established, or who is
stateless.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child acquires citizenship regardless of the child’s country of birth if both parents are
citizens of Poland, or if one of the parents is a citizen of Poland and the other is not known,
of unknown citizenship, or is stateless.
· Child, one of whose parents is a citizen of a foreign country, and the child acquires Polish
citizenship by birth: The child’s parents must submit an affidavit explaining these
circumstances to Polish authorities within three months of the child’s birth. The parents
may choose foreign citizenship for the child if the laws of the foreign country grant the child
citizenship based on descent from the foreign parent. Formal recognition of Polish
citizenship by descent can be granted to this child at age 16 if an affidavit expressing the
child’s will to become a Polish citizen is executed before, and submitted to, the Polish
authorities.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED. Poland does not recognize dual citizenship of its
citizens. Polish law does not forbid a Polish citizen from becoming the citizen of a foreign state but
Polish authorities will only recognize the Polish citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
160
PORTUGAL
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon Citizenship Law #37/81, dated 1981, and regulated by
Decree Law #322/82.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Portugal does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Portugal, regardless of the
child’s country of birth. Parents of a child born abroad must make a declaration of desire for
Portuguese citizenship for the child and register the child either at a Portuguese consulate
abroad or at government offices in Portugal.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
Embassy of Portugal
Consular Section
2310 Tracy Place NW
Washington, DC 20008
www.infoline.ine.pt/si/english/port.html
161
QATAR
CITIZENSHIP: Qatari nationality is regulated by Law #2 of 1961, amended by Law #19 of 1963
and Law #17 of 1966. Citizenship is automatic for a person who resided in Qatar prior to 1930.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the State of Qatar does not confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born to a Qatari father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Permitted under Qatari Law. Letters of renunciation should be sent to any
Qatari embassy abroad.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Qatari citizenship:
· Person joins the military service of a foreign country against the wishes of the Qatari
government.
· Person acquires a foreign nationality.
· Person works for the interests of a foreign government that is in a state of war with Qatar.
162
ROMANIA
CITIZENSHIP: Romanian citizenship law is based on Law 21 dated 1991.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Romania does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Romania, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
· MARRIAGE: Foreign national who marries a Romanian citizen must reside in Romania for
three years, but fulfill the other naturalization conditions.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: Under current Romanian law there are no grounds for involuntary loss of
Romanian citizenship. Three months after voluntarily renouncing citizenship, a former citizen may
reapply for Romanian citizenship.
· VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation is permitted by law, but is not required unless the laws
of a second country demand. Contact the Romanian Embassy for details and proper
paperwork.
Embassy of Romania
Consular Section
1607 23rd St., NW
Washington, DC 20008
Consul General of Romania in New York Consul General of Romania in Los Angeles
th
200 East 38 Street 11766 Wilshire Blvd. #1230
New York, NY 10016 Los Angles, CA 90025
163
RUSSIAN FEDERATION
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Law on Citizenship dated February 6, 1992.
· BY BIRTH: If either parent is a citizen of the Russian Federation, and the other is a stateless
person, their child shall be a citizen of the Russian Federation, irrespective of the child’s place
of birth.
· BY DESCENT:
· If both parents are citizens of the Russian Federation, irrespective of the child’s place of
birth.
· If one parent is a citizen of the Russian Federation and the other is of another citizenship,
the child’s citizenship shall be decided, irrespective of the child’s place of birth, by a written
agreement between the parents. (In the absence of such agreement, the child shall
acquire citizenship of the Russian Federation if it were born on the territory of the Russian
Federation or if it would otherwise become a stateless person.)
· BY REGISTRATION:
· Persons whose spouse or direct ancestor is a citizen of the Russian Federation.
· Person who acquired other citizenship by birth, either of whose parents was a citizen of the
th
Russian Federation, may register for citizenship within five years after their 18 birthday.
· Children of former Russian Federation citizens, born after the termination of parents’
th
Russian Federation citizenship, may register for citizenship within five years after their 18
birthday.
· Former citizens of the USSR who resided on the territory of the former USSR and who
came to reside on the territory of the Russian Federation after February 6, 1992, if they
declared their intention to acquire citizenship of the Russian Federation by December 31,
2000.
· Stateless persons permanently residing on the territory of the Russian Federation on the
day of enactment of the present Law, or on the territory of other republics of the former
USSR as of September 1, 1991, both of whom within one year of enactment of the present
Law declare their intention to acquire citizenship of the Russian Federation.
· Foreign citizens and stateless persons, irrespective of their domicile, who themselves are,
or one of whose direct ancestors were, a subject of Russia by birth, and who, within one
year of enactment of the present Law, declare their intention to acquire the Russian
Federation citizenship.
(The period of residence is considered continuous when a person has traveled outside the
borders of the Russian Federation for study or medical treatment for longer than three months.)
164
RUSSIAN FEDERATION (cont.)
· VOLUNTARY: Renunciation of citizenship of the Russian Federation will be granted upon
application for another citizenship when the individual is not in receipt of papers for military call
or indictment in a criminal case.
www.undp.org/missions/russianfed
165
RWANDA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Code of Rwandese Nationality dated
September 28, 1963.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Rwanda does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born within the territory of Rwanda to unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child whose father is a citizen of Rwanda, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child whose mother is a citizen of Rwanda and whose father is unknown or stateless.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
166
ST. KITTS AND NEVIS
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Constitution of St. Kitts and Nevis. Categories
of citizenship are divided by the date of independence, September 19, 1983. (UKC-
Commonwealth Nation)
· BY DESCENT:
· Person born before September 19, 1983: Any person living in St. Kitts, who was at that
time a British Dependent Territory Citizen (BDTC) or a British Citizen was eligible for
St. Kittsian citizenship.
· Their child born abroad or adopted.
· Their foreign national spouse.
· Persons born on or after September 19, 1983: Child born abroad, at least one of whose
parents was a citizen of St. Kitts and Nevis.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized St. Kittsian
citizenship:
· Person's naturalized citizenship was obtained by fraud, false representation, or willful
concealment of information.
· Person commits act of treason against the government.
167
ST. LUCIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Citizenship Act of St. Lucia, dated June 5, 1979.
(UKC-Commonwealth Nation) The following categories of persons were granted St. Lucian
citizenship upon the date of independence (February 22, 1979):
· A citizen of the United Kingdom and Colonies (UKC) naturalized or registered in St. Lucia.
· A Commonwealth citizen who resided in St. Lucia for seven years.
· A foreign woman married to a man who was eligible for citizenship.
· BY BIRTH:
· Person born in the territory of St. Lucia before February 22, 1979, who was a citizen of the
UKC.
· Person born in the territory of St. Lucia after February 22, 1979, regardless of the
nationality of the parents.
· Exception: Child born to foreign representatives or diplomats.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, before or after independence, at least one of whose
parents is a citizen, or was eligible for citizenship at the time of independence.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of St. Lucian citizenship:
· Naturalized citizenship is gained through fraud or falsehoods.
· Citizen is convicted of treason against the government.
168
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship Laws are based upon the Saint Vincent Constitution, dated October 27,
1979 and the Citizenship Act of 1984. As a member of the British Commonwealth, Saint Vincent
has specific laws and rules for British and Commonwealth citizens. (UKC-Commonwealth)
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of Saint Vincent, regardless of the nationality of the
parents. The exception is a child, one of whose parents is employed in a foreign diplomatic
post.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad or adopted child under age 18, at least one of whose
parents is a citizen of Saint Vincent.
The following are requirements for registering for citizenship: Person has resided in the
country for at least 12 months preceding registration, has lived in the country continuously for
at least nine years, is of good character, has knowledge of the English language and
citizenship responsibilities, and plans to make Saint Vincent a permanent home.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Permitted by law for all citizens 18 years and older. Contact Embassy for
details and required paperwork.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Saint Vincentian citizenship:
· Person obtains naturalization or registration by fraud.
· Person has shown disloyalty to the country.
· Person has lived continuously abroad for at least five years.
169
SAMOA (Formerly Western Samoa)
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Citizenship Act of 1972, dated August 9, 1972. All
persons who were citizens of Samoa under the 1959 Citizenship of Western Samoa Ordinance
continued to be citizens of Samoa. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Child born on or after August 9, 1972, in the territory of Western Samoa,
regardless of the nationality of the parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born abroad, on or after August 9, 1972, of a Samoan father.
· Child born abroad, out of wedlock, on or after August 9, 1972, of a Samoan mother.
· REGISTRATION: British Commonwealth citizens may register for Samoan citizenship upon
fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has resided in the country for at least three
years, is of good character, understands the language and customs of the country, and intends
to continue to reside in the country.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign woman married to a citizen of Samoa may register for citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Western Samoan
citizenship:
· Person voluntarily obtains new citizenship, except by marriage.
· Shows disloyalty to the country by:
· Joining a foreign armed force
· Carrying a foreign passport
· Exercising rights of another citizenship
· Taking oath of loyalty to a foreign country
· Person has continuously resided abroad for more than six years and shows no interest in
returning to reside in Samoa.
· Naturalized or Registered citizenship obtained through fraud.
170
SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Law of Nationality, dated September 13, 1990.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Sao Tome does not automatically confer citizenship.
The exceptions are as follows:
· Child born in the territory of Sao Tome of (non-diplomatic) foreign parents who have settled
in the country. (The “settled” qualification is ambiguous; more specificity was not
provided.)
· Child born to unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in Sao Tome, at least one of whose parents is a citizen.
· Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen, if parents register the child as
a citizen.
· MARRIAGE: The foreign spouse of a citizen of Sao Tome may obtain citizenship upon
renouncing previous citizenship, establishing residency in the country, and declaring their
desire to obtain Sao Tomean citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Sao Tomean citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· Person enlists in a foreign armed force.
· Naturalized citizen fails to adapt to the country's customs.
· Person commits a crime or dangerous act against the state.
171
SAUDI ARABIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Saudi Nationality Law.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Saudi Arabia does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child of a Saudi father, born in wedlock, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child of a Saudi father and foreign mother, born out of wedlock, will obtain the citizenship
of the mother.
· Child born in Saudi Arabia, out of wedlock, to a Saudi mother and unknown father.
· Child born out of wedlock to a Saudi mother, born outside the country, will not be granted
citizenship by descent.
· MARRIAGE:
· Foreign woman who marries a citizen of Saudi Arabia may apply for citizenship by
registration. Residency requirements vary from case to case, up to five years. Citizenship
is not automatically granted.
· Foreign man who marries a citizen of Saudi Arabia is able to apply for citizenship, granted
on a case by case basis.
· BY NATURALIZATION: Saudi Arabia does not automatically grant rights to apply for
naturalization. For persons who otherwise qualify (unspecified) for permanent residency,
naturalization conditions include: Residence in the country for five years, no criminal record,
and renunciation of previous citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Saudi citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
· Naturalized citizenship was obtained through fraud or falsehood.
172
SENEGAL
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Code of Nationality, dated 1960, amended in 1989.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Senegal does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born of a Senegalese father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child born of a Senegalese mother and an unknown father, regardless of the child’s
country of birth.
· MARRIAGE: Foreigner who marries a Senegalese is granted permanent residency and can
apply for citizenship by naturalization.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
173
SEYCHELLES
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Citizenship of Seychelles Act, dated June 29,
1976, and the Constitution of Seychelles, dated 1970. Questions concerning persons born before
June 29, 1976, should be directed to the Seychellois Mission. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Seychelles does not automatically confer citizenship.
The exception is a child born of unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock and in Seychelles, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of
Seychelles.
· Child born out of wedlock in Seychelles, whose mother is a citizen of Seychelles and
whose father is unknown or stateless.
· REGISTRATION: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Seychelles,
may acquire citizenship through registration.
· MARRIAGE: Person who marries a citizen of Seychelles is eligible for citizenship through
naturalization without meeting other requirements.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Seychellois citizenship by
registration or by naturalization:
· Person fails to renounce previous citizenship or obtains new citizenship.
· Person was absent from the country seven years without registering.
· Person obtained citizenship through false means.
174
SIERRA LEONE
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Law of Citizenship, dated 1961. (UKC-
Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Persons of African Negro (sic; Constitution) descent, born in Sierra Leone on or
before April 26, 1961, who fell into the following categories, were granted Sierra Leonean
citizenship:
· Citizen of the United Kingdom and Colonies (UKC)
· British Protected Person
Child born in Sierra Leone on or before April 26, 1961, none of whose parents or grandparents
were born in Sierra Leone, is not eligible for citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child whose father and a grandfather were Sierra Leoneans of African Negro
descent, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· REGISTRATION: Person, either of whose parents is a Negro of African descent, may apply to
register as a citizen of Sierra Leone.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
www.sierra-leone.org
175
SINGAPORE
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Constitution of Singapore, dated August 9,
1965. All questions dealing with persons born before August 9, 1965, should be directed to the
Embassy of Singapore. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Singapore does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born after August 9, 1965, in the territory of Singapore, at least one of whose parents
was a citizen of Singapore.
· Child born abroad after August 9, 1965, whose father was a citizen of Singapore by birth or
registration. Child must be registered in Singapore or abroad within one year of birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of citizenship is permitted by law for all citizens over the
age of 21. Contact the Singaporean Embassy for details and appropriate paperwork.
Required submissions include proof of new citizenship, birth certificate, identity card, and
passport.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Singaporean citizenship:
· Person over age 22 has voluntarily acquired new citizenship.
· Naturalized citizenship was obtained through fraud.
· Naturalized citizen has lived over 5 years in a foreign country.,
176
SLOVAK REPUBLIC
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship Law is based upon the National Council of the Slovak Republic Law
No.40, dated January 19, 1993. Persons who were citizens of the Slovak Republic up to
December 31, 1992, are considered citizens of Slovakia.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Slovakia does not automatically confer citizenship.
Exceptions:
· Child born in Slovakia to parents who are unknown or stateless.
· Child born in Slovakia who did not automatically receive the citizenship of foreign parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, one of whose parents is a citizen of Slovakia, regardless of the child’s country of
birth.
· Child adopted by a citizen of Slovakia.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY:
· Voluntary renunciation of citizenship is possible only on the condition that the applicant is
able to prove citizenship of another state or that the granting of citizenship can be
reasonably assumed. Release of Slovak citizenship is possible only upon an individual's
own petition. Decisions regarding release from citizenship are made by the District Offices.
Citizenship is cancelled upon receipt of the document of renunciation.
· Persons involved in criminal proceedings, serving a prison term, or who are delinquent in
their taxes or debts are not allowed to renounce citizenship.
177
SLOVENIA
CITIZENSHIP: Slovenian citizenship is based on the Citizenship Act of June 25, 1991.
· BY BIRTH:
· Child born in the Republic of Slovenia with at least one parent a citizen.
· Child born in the Republic of Slovenia with unknown parents, or parents with no
citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Children born abroad to Slovenian citizens must meet the following
requirements to be granted citizenship:
· Both parents must be citizens of Slovenia.
· One parent is unknown or has no citizenship, but the other parent is a citizen of Slovenia.
· Child must either be registered with appropriate authorities or return home to Slovenia as a
permanent resident before the age of 18.
· After age 18, a person who was not registered and is now considered a legal adult, can still
obtain Slovenian citizenship by personally declaring for Slovenian citizenship before the
age of 23.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Renunciation of citizenship is permitted if the conditions listed below are met:
· Person is over 18 and lives in a foreign country.
· Person has no military service obligations.
· All debts and legal obligations have been satisfied.
· The person faces no pending criminal proceedings.
· Person has proof that foreign citizenship will be granted.
· If new citizenship is not adopted within one year, decree of dismissal may be cancelled.
178
SLOVENIA (cont.)
· Children (under 18) lose their citizenship upon the request of their parents. If the child is
older than 14 years, the child must give their consent to the loss of citizenship.
· The petition for loss of citizenship can be rejected if the interests of the State take
precedence.
179
SOLOMON ISLANDS
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Solomon Islands Independence Order No.783, dated
July 7, 1978. The Solomon Islands, a former British Colony and a Commonwealth Nation, have a
variety of categories of person eligible for citizenship. (UKC-Commonwealth)
The following categories of people were automatically eligible for citizenship at the time of
Independence, July 7, 1978:
· Person who belonged to a people indigenous to the Solomon Islands.
· Any woman who was married to an indigenous Solomon Islander.
The following categories of people were eligible to register as citizens of the Solomon Islands up to
two years after Independence Day:
· Citizen of the United Kingdom and Colonies (UKC) or a British Protected Person (BPP), as well
as their spouse and children, who was born in the Solomon Islands.
· Citizen of the UKC or a BPP, as well as their spouse and children, who had resided in the
Solomon Islands for at least seven years.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of the Solomon Islands does not automatically confer
citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child born on or after July 7, 1978, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of
the Solomon Islands, regardless of the child’s nation of birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
180
SOMALIA, SOMALI REPUBLIC
Since 1995 Somalia has had no functioning central government; armed factions control different
regions. Since 1999 a joint United Nations police force has been operating in the capital,
Mogadishu, but much of the nation is in disarray facing continued violence and famine.
www.//gaia.info.usaid.gov/horn/somalia/somalia
181
SOUTH AFRICA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the South African Citizenship Act, 1995 (Act No.88 of
1995), as amended, with an effective date of October 6, 1995. The South African Citizenship Act
of 1949 has been repealed.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of South Africa does not automatically confer citizenship.
A person may claim South African citizenship by birth if:
· One parent was a South African citizen.
· One parent had been lawfully admitted to the Republic for permanent residence when the
child was born.
· For a child born out of wedlock before October 6, 1995, the mother must have been a
South African citizen at the time of the birth of the child.
· Any person born in the Republic of South Africa who is not regarded a South African by
birth, shall become a South African citizen by birth if adopted in accordance with the Child
Care Act, 1083, by parents of which one is a South African citizen and the birth is
registered in South Africa.
· BY DESCENT: Any person born outside South Africa, at least one of whose parents is a
South African citizen at the time of the child’s birth, and whose birth is registered in the terms of
the Births and Deaths Registration Act, 1922, shall be a South African citizen by descent.
· RESUMPTION OF SOUTH AFRICAN CITZENSHIP: In some cases, persons who have lost or
forfeited their South African citizenship, and who are residing permanently in South Africa, may
apply for resumption of their South African citizenship. Contact the South African Embassy for
more details.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of South African citizenship:
· Person acquires a foreign citizenship without permission.
· Naturalized or Registered citizen continually resides outside the country for seven years or
more.
· A person who also has citizenship of any other country and serves in the armed forces of
such a country while the country is at war with the Republic.
182
SOUTH AFRICA (cont.)
QUESTIONS concerning citizenship, or requests for renunciation of citizenship, should be directed
to:
[email protected]
www.southafrica.net
www.statssa.gov/za
183
SPAIN
CITIZENSHIP: The basis for Spanish citizenship law is Articles 17 through 26 of the “Codigo Civil”
that was modified by Laws 18/1990 and 29/1995.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Spain does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born to unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Spain, regardless of the child’s country
of birth.
· Child born of non-Spanish citizen parents, provided at least one of the parents was born in
Spain.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Spanish citizenship: Person
voluntarily acquires citizenship of a country with which Spain does not have a dual citizenship
agreement.
www.docuweb.ca/sispain
184
SRI LANKA (Formerly Ceylon)
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Citizenship Act of Sri Lanka, dated May 22,
1972, and amended in 1987. All who were citizens of Ceylon are considered citizens of Sri Lanka.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Sri Lanka does not automatically confer citizenship.
The exception is a child born of unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born before May 22, 1972:
· Child born in wedlock whose father, paternal grandfather, or paternal great-grandfather
was born in Sri Lanka, regardless of the child's country of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock is granted citizenship if the mother, maternal grandfather, or
maternal great-grandfather is a citizen.
· Child born on or after May 22, 1972:
· Child born in wedlock whose father is a citizen of Sri Lanka regardless of the child’s
country of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock is granted citizenship if the mother is a citizen of Sri Lanka.
· A child born abroad must be registered with the proper authorities within one year.
· REGISTRATION: Certain persons with paternal or maternal blood ties to Sri Lanka may apply
for citizenship by registration provided they are at least 22 years old and intend to permanently
reside in Sri Lanka.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Sri Lankan citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
· Citizen by descent, whose father is a citizen by registration, will lose citizenship at age 22
unless they express a desire to retain it.
· Citizen by registration who…
· gave false information
· resided abroad more than five years without government permission
· was convicted of certain crimes
· declared loyalty to a foreign government.
· BY BIRTH:
· Person born on or before January 1, 1957:
· Child born in the territory of Sudan, whose parents had established residency in
Sudan.
· Person born after January 1, 1957:
· Birth in the territory of Sudan does not automatically confer citizenship. The exception
is a child born to unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Person born on or before January 1, 1957:
· Person whose father and paternal grandfather had been permanently residing in the
Sudan since 1924.
· Person Born after January 1, 1957:
· Child of a native-born Sudanese father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child of a naturalized Sudanese father, regardless of the child’s country of birth, if the
father was naturalized before child's birth.
· MARRIAGE: Foreign woman who marries a citizen of the Sudan may obtain citizenship
provided she is married according to Sudanese Law, lives in marriage with her husband for at
least two years, and renounces her former citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Sudanese citizenship:
· Person obtains new citizenship.
· Naturalized citizenship obtained through fraud or falsity.
· Naturalized citizen lives abroad more than 5 years, without registering.
Embassy of Sudan
2210 Massachusetts Avenue
Washington DC 20008
Telephone: 202-338-8565
www.sudanembassyus.org
186
SURINAME
CITIZENSHIP: Information concerning the basis for Surinamer citizenship was not provided.
187
SWAZILAND
CITIZENSHIP: Information on the basis for Swaziland citizenship laws was not provided. (UKC-
Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Swaziland does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child, both of whose parents are citizens of Swaziland, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized or registered
citizenship; citizenship by birth can only be voluntarily renounced.
· Person has failed to renounce previous citizenship.
· Female national has ended marriage to Swazi citizen.
· Person has become unacceptable to Swazi society by involvement in a serious criminal
act.
www.realnet.co.sz
188
SWEDEN
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Swedish Nationality Law.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Sweden does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock, whose father is a citizen of Sweden, regardless of the child’s
country of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock, whose mother is a citizen of Sweden and whose father is
unknown or stateless, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
Any Swedish citizen can retain dual citizenship, as long as dual citizenship was not obtained
through a conscious desire to voluntarily obtain a foreign citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: Loss of a person's citizenship also applies to any of the person's minor
children.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Swedish citizenship: Person
voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship and does not fall into a category of dual citizenship
exception.
www.scb.se/scbeng/keyeng.htm
189
SWITZERLAND
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Swiss Citizenship Law dated September 29,
1952, amended in 1984 and 1990.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Switzerland does not automatically confer citizenship.
The exception is a child born to unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Switzerland, regardless
of the child’s country of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock, whose mother is a Swiss citizen, regardless of the child’s
country of birth.
· Child born abroad to Swiss parents must be registered before the age of 22 or the child will
not be a citizen of Switzerland.
Swiss law provides for exceptions to these requirements in situations of blood ties to Swiss
citizens, Swiss military service, and adoption by Swiss citizens.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: If one parent decides to renounce Swiss citizenship, their spouse and all
children under 20 years of age must also renounce their citizenship. However, a foreign woman
who gained Swiss citizenship through marriage does not lose her Swiss citizenship in the event of
the termination of the marriage, if she entered the marriage in good faith.
· INVOLUNTARY: According to the Swiss Consulate, there are no "realistic" conditions for the
involuntary loss of Swiss Citizenship. Therefore, Swiss citizens should not assume that the
acquisition of a new citizenship would cause their Swiss citizenship to be removed by default.
190
SWITZERLAND (cont.)
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship, or requests for renunciation of citizenship, should be
directed to the address below:
[email protected]
www.swissemb.org/legal
www.swissembassy.org.uk
www.admin.ch/bfs/eindex.htm
191
SYRIA
CITIZENSHIP: Information on the basis for Syrian citizenship laws was not provided.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Syria does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born of a Syrian father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child born of a Syrian mother and an unknown or stateless father.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
192
TAIWAN (Republic of China)
CITIZENSHIP: Based on the Nationality Law of the Republic of China, dated February 5, 1929.
Citizenship is based primarily on descent from the father (jus sanguinis).
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Taiwan does not automatically confer citizenship. Only
when a child of unknown parentage is found is citizenship granted. This citizenship is
removed, upon legitimization by a foreign parent.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child whose father is, at the time of that child's birth, a Taiwanese national, even if the
father died before birth.
· Child whose father is unknown or stateless but whose mother is a Taiwanese national.
· Child born out of wedlock to foreign woman and Taiwanese national father who has been
legitimatized (recognized) by the father.
· MARRIAGE: Person who is the foreign wife of a Taiwanese national, except when the law of
her own country requires that she retain her original citizenship.
· The spouse and non-majority age children of a naturalized citizen acquire the Taiwanese
citizenship unless it is contrary to the law of the spouse’s, or children's, original country.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
193
TAJIKISTAN
CITIZENSHIP: Information on Tajikistani citizenship laws was not provided.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship law should be directed to the address below:
Mission Telephone:
Fax: 212-472-7645
www.soros.org/tajkstan.html
194
TANZANIA (Formerly Tanganyika and Zanzibar)
CITIZENSHIP: All laws are based upon the Tanzanian Citizenship Act No.6 of October 1995.
(UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Tanzania, either before or after independence, does not
automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Person Born before December 9, 1961:
· Person living in Tanzania, who was either a citizen of the United Kingdom and
Colonies (UKC) or a British Protected Person (BPP) and at least one of whose parents
was born in Tanzania.
· Person born abroad, who was either a citizen of the UKC or a BPP and whose father
was eligible for Tanzanian citizenship.
· Person Born after December 9, 1961:
· Child born in Tanzania, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Tanzania.
· Child born abroad, whose father is a citizen of Tanzania.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Tanzania may register for citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
195
THAILAND
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based on the Nationality Act of 1965 with Amendment No.2
AD 1992 and Amendment No.3 AD 1993.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Thailand does not automatically confer citizenship.
· A person born of a father or mother of Thai nationality, whether within or outside the Thai
Kingdom.
· A person born within the Thai Kingdom except a person of alien parents if, at the time of
birth, the father was not married to the mother, unless the mother was given leniency for
temporary residence or had been permitted to stay temporarily in the Thai Kingdom, unless
she had entered the Kingdom without permission.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in wedlock, either of whose parents is a citizen of Thailand, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
· Child born out of wedlock, whose mother is a citizen of Thailand and whose father is
unknown or stateless, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· BY NATURALIZATION: Before being able to apply for Thai citizenship, the person must have
the following qualifications:
· Have displayed good behavior.
· Have a regular occupation.
· Have a domicile in the Thai Kingdom for a consecutive period of not less than five years.
· Have knowledge of Thai language.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Thai citizenship:
Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship. When there exist circumstances suitable for
maintaining the security or interests of the State, the government is empowered to revoke Thai
nationality of a person who had acquired Thai nationality through naturalization.
196
THAILAND (cont.)
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship, or requests for renunciation of citizenship, should be
directed to the address below:
Embassy of Thailand
Consular Section
1024 Wisconsin Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20007
http://emailhost.ait.ac.th/asia/info.html
197
TOGO
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is administered through the Ministry of Territorial Administration and
Security, and the Ministry of Justice.
· BY BIRTH: Birth with the territory of Togo does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child of a Togolese father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child of a Togolese mother and an unknown father, regardless of the child’s country of
birth.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign citizen who marries a citizen of Togo may register for citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
198
TONGA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Nationality Act dated and amended 1915
through 1988; 2 Laws of Tonga, Chapter 59 (1988 rev. Ed.).
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Tonga does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born in Tonga whose father is a citizen of Tonga.
· Child born abroad, whose father was born in Tonga.
· Child born out of wedlock in Tonga whose mother is a citizen of Tonga.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Tonga is eligible for citizenship 12
months after marriage.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Tongan citizenship:
· Person acquires foreign citizenship.
· Naturalized citizenship was obtained through fraud.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning Tongan citizenship law should be directed to the address below:
Library of Congress
Law Library, Directorate of Legal Research
Western Law Division
James Madison Memorial Building, Rm. LM-240
Washington, DC 20540-3230
Telephone: 202-707-7850
Fax: 202-707-1820
199
TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Citizenship Act of August 30, 1962 (Independence
Day), and the revised Constitution, dated 1976. All persons who were granted citizenship at the
time of Independence remained citizens under the 1976 Constitution. (UKC-Commonwealth
Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Child born in Trinidad and Tobago, on or after August 30, 1962, regardless of the
nationality of the parents. The exception is a child born to foreign diplomatic personnel, neither
of whom is a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad on or after August 30, 1962, either of whose parents are
citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED. Beginning July 29, 1988, citizens by birth or descent are
permitted to hold dual citizenship. Persons who lost or renounced citizenship before that date may
reapply for their citizenship.
Exception: Dual citizenship is not recognized in the case of naturalized or registered citizens.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Trinidad and Tobagoan
citizenship by naturalization or registration:
· Citizenship was obtained through fraud or false statements.
· Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
· Person continues to exercise the rights and privileges of a citizen of their former country.
200
TUNISIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Code of Nationality dated January 26, 1956.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Tunisia does not necessarily confer citizenship.
Exceptions:
· A child born to stateless or unknown parents
· A child born in Tunisia, of a Tunisian mother and foreign father.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child whose father is a citizen of Tunisia, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child of a Tunisian mother and a foreign father may obtain Tunisian citizenship upon the
request of the father.
· Child whose mother is a citizen of Tunisia and whose father is unknown or stateless,
regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· MARRIAGE:
· Foreign woman, whose country demands that their citizenship be renounced in order to
marry, is granted citizenship at the time of her marriage to the Tunisian spouse.
· Foreign woman, whose country does not demand renouncement of citizenship, may apply
for Tunisian citizenship in two years.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Tunisian citizenship:
· Person has committed a crime.
· Treason.
· Person has avoided military service.
· Person gave false information to naturalization office.
Embassy of Tunisia
Consular Section
1515 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20036
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Turkey does not automatically confer citizenship.
Exception: A child born to unknown or stateless parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Turkey, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Turkey may acquire Turkish
citizenship upon making a declaration of intent.
The following persons may be eligible for citizenship without fulfilling the residency
requirement:
· Persons of Turkish descent, their spouses, and minor children.
· The child of a person who, regardless of circumstances, has lost citizenship.
· Spouse of a Turkish citizen and the spouse’s minor children.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
202
TURKMENISTAN
CITIZENSHIP: Information concerning Turkmenistani citizenship was not provided.
Embassy of Turkmenistan
2207 Massachusetts Ave NW
Washington DC 20008
www.turkmenistan.org
[email protected]
203
TUVALU
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Constitution of Tuvalu Ordinance, dated September
15, 1986, and the Citizenship Ordinance 1979.
· BY BIRTH: Child born on or after September 15, 1986 in Tuvalu, regardless of the nationality
of the parents. The exception is a child whose parents are not citizens, and whose father is a
diplomatic representative.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad on or after September 15, 1986, at least one of whose
parents is a citizen of Tuvalu.
· MARRIAGE: Foreign national, who marries a citizen of Tuvalu, may register for citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
ANY QUESTIONS concerning Tuvalu Citizenship Law should be directed to the address below:
Library of Congress
Law Library, Directorate of Legal Research
Western Law Division
James Madison Memorial Building, Rm. LM-240
Washington, DC 20540-3230
Telephone: 202-707-7850
Fax: 202-707-1820
www.emulateme.com/tuvalu.htm
204
UGANDA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon the Constitution of Uganda. Every person who was a
citizen of Uganda on or before October 9, 1962, the date of independence, is considered a citizen
of Uganda. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Uganda does not automatically confer citizenship.
Questions concerning those born before October 9, 1962, should be directed to the Embassy.
· BY DESCENT:
· Person born in Uganda after October 9, 1962, at least one of whose parents or
grandparents is a citizen of Uganda.
· Person born abroad after October 9, 1962, whose father was a citizen of Uganda.
· REGISTRATION: A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Uganda is eligible to register for
Ugandan citizenship. This includes women who were married to Ugandans before the date of
independence, even if their husband died before that date.
Ugandan law maintains that one citizenship should be chosen at age 18, but this is a rarely
enforced law. Unless an individual brings their dual citizenship to the attention of the government,
both nationalities may be maintained by default.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Ugandan citizenship: Person
voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship. Unless the government is informed, the citizenship will
not be revoked.
www. nic.ug
205
UKRAINE
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship for Ukraine is based upon the 1991 Statute on Citizenship. All those
who resided in Ukraine until the approval of this statute retain their citizenship.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Ukraine does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born within the territory of Ukraine with at least one parent a citizen of Ukraine.
· Child born abroad, having permanent residence in Ukraine, with at least one parent a
citizen of Ukraine.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Ukrainian citizenship:
Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship. Person enrolls for military service, security
service, law enforcement activities, judicial bodies, or other bodies of state power of a foreign
state.
Embassy of Ukraine
Consular Office
3350 M St., NW
Washington, DC 20007
206
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon Nationality Law #17, dated January 1, 1972, and
amended by Law #10, dated 1975. On December 2, 1971, all persons who were legal citizens of
the separate Emirates obtained United Arab Emirate's citizenship upon the unionization of the
country.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of the United Arab Emirates does not automatically confer
citizenship. The exception is a child born of unknown parents.
· MARRIAGE:
· A foreign woman who marries a United Arab Emirates citizen may obtain citizenship,
provided the woman resides three years in the country after application for citizenship, has
given up previous citizenship, and has obtained approval of the Ministry of the Interior.
· A foreign husband is not eligible for citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of United Arab Emirates
citizenship:
· Person obtains new citizenship
· Person joins foreign armed forces without government permission.
· Naturalized citizen…
· Citizenship was obtained through fraud.
· Commits crime in the country.
· Lives over four years outside the country.
· Acts against the security of the country.
Due to Great Britain's historic relationship with its former colonies and the British Commonwealth,
certain groups of peoples fall into special categories. Citizenship requirements and special
considerations for these groups are frequently different than for those considered to be foreign
nationals and, to a degree, are different from category to category. Persons included in these
special categories are:
· BY BIRTH:
· Child born in the United Kingdom, at least one of whose parents is a British citizen or has
settled in the United Kingdom.
· Child born in the United Kingdom whose parents are unknown.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born overseas to a British citizen if at least one of his parents is a British citizen other
than by descent.
· Child born overseas to a British citizen in service to the Crown.
· Child born outside of the United Kingdom with certain family connections (unspecified) to
the United Kingdom.
· OTHER:
· Child adopted by Order of the Court of the United Kingdom.
· Person registered by the Secretary of State as a British citizen. (Often used for children
born abroad to British citizens.)
· SPECIAL CATEGORIES: Persons falling into these categories may be registered as British
citizens if they have lived in the United Kingdom lawfully for five years; the twelve months
preceding the application must be of continuous residence.
· British Overseas Citizen
· British Subject
· British Protected Person
· British Dependent Territory Citizen
208
UNITED KINGDOM (cont.)
· BY NATURALIZATION: British citizenship may be granted upon fulfillment of the following
conditions:
· Person has been a resident of the United Kingdom for five years.
· Persons married to British citizens are required to reside in the United Kingdom for the
three years preceding application, with certain restrictions on periods spent outside the
United Kingdom.
· Person is of good character and has sufficient knowledge of English, Welsh, or Scottish
Gaelic.
· Person intends on remaining in the United Kingdom or entering Crown service.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: Unless it is required for other reasons, British citizens need not renounce
their citizenship upon obtaining a foreign citizenship. Those who have voluntarily renounced British
citizenship are entitled to reacquire it once. Otherwise, the resumption of British citizenship is at
the discretion of the Secretary of State.
**The Consular number reaches a voice mail answering system. Choose the number that
corresponds with the "Citizen/Naturalization" category. Due to a heavy workload, the Consulate
prefers that all questions be mailed or faxed.
ASSOCIATED STATES:
Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brunei,
Canada, Cameroon, Cyprus, Dominica, The Gambia, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, India, Jamaica,
Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia,
Nauru, New Zealand, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore,
Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and The Grenadines,
Swaziland, Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Uganda, United Kingdom, Vanuatu,
Samoa, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
209
URUGUAY
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are based upon the Constitution of the Oriental Republic of
Uruguay.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the Republic of Uruguay, regardless of the nationality of the
parents. Uruguayan law refers to this as “natural” citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, one of whose parents is a citizen of Uruguay, provided the
child is registered in the Civic Register for Vital Records. This is also considered natural
citizenship.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED. (Only for natural citizens; legal citizens are not allowed to
obtain a second citizenship.)
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· VOLUNTARY: Permitted under Uruguayan law, but not required. Contact nearest Uruguayan
Embassy or Consulate for necessary requirements.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of legal Uruguayan citizenship:
· Legal citizen voluntarily obtains another citizenship.
· Person is being prosecuted for certain criminal acts which could result in imprisonment, or
receives a judicial verdict that imposes penalty of exile, prison, or loss of political rights.
· Person participates in social or political organization activities that promote violence
against the Republic of Uruguay.
· Person fails to comply with the good behavior requirements for naturalized citizens.
Consulate of Uruguay
rd
2715 M Street, 3 Floor
Washington, DC 20007
[email protected]
www.embassy.org/uruguary
210
UZBEKISTAN
CITIZENSHIP: Laws are based upon the Citizenship Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Citizens
of the Kara-Kalpak Republic are also citizens of Uzbekistan.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the Republic of Uzbekistan does not automatically confer citizenship.
The only exceptions are abandoned children.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, both of whose parents are citizens of Uzbekistan, is considered a citizen of
Uzbekistan regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child, one of whose parents is a citizen of Uzbekistan, and the other parent is stateless, is
considered a citizen of Uzbekistan regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child, one of whose parents is a citizen of Uzbekistan, is granted citizenship based on the
following situations:
· Child born in Uzbekistan is a citizen.
· Child born outside of Uzbekistan, at least one of whose parents has residency in the
country, is a citizen.
· Child, born outside of Uzbekistan and neither parent lives in the country, is granted
citizenship upon the written request and consent of the parents.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: Permitted unless the person has unfulfilled obligations or debts to the
state, or is under criminal sentencing.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Uzbek citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· Person gains employment with an institution of a foreign power.
· Person, permanently residing abroad, has not registered with the consulate for five years.
· Person acquired Uzbek citizenship under false pretenses.
[email protected]
www.gov.uz
211
VANUATU
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon Section 10 of the Constitution, dated July 30, 1983.
(UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Child born in Vanuatu, of two foreign nationals living in Vanuatu, may apply for
Vanuatuan citizenship upon reaching the age of 18.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, both of whose parents are citizens of Vanuatu, regardless of the child’s country of
birth.
· Child of a Vanuatuan father and a foreign mother, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child of a Vanuatuan mother and a foreign father obtains the citizenship of the father.
However, the child can apply for Vanuatuan citizenship upon reaching age 18.
· MARRIAGE:
· A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Vanuatu may automatically apply for citizenship.
· A foreign man who marries a citizen of Vanuatu may apply for citizenship after 10 years
residency.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
212
VENEZUELA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship Laws are based upon the Constitution of Venezuela.
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of the Republic of Venezuela regardless of the
nationality of the parents.
· BY DESCENT: Child born abroad, one of whose parents is a citizen of Venezuela, is granted
citizenship under the following conditions:
· Before child reaches the age of 18, the parents must establish residence in Venezuela.
· Before reaching the age of 25, the person must declare an intention to accept Venezuelan
nationality.
· The following are Venezuelans by naturalization whenever they declare their intentions:
· A foreign woman who marries a Venezuelan national.
· A foreign minor child (natural or adopted) of a recently naturalized Venezuelan, provided
the child resides in the country and makes a declaration of intent before reaching the age
of 25.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: Venezuelan woman who marries a foreigner retains her nationality
unless she declares her intention to the contrary or, according to the laws of her husband's country,
acquires his nationality.
Venezuelan nationality by birth is recovered whenever the person who lost it returns to live in
Venezuela and declares an intention to recover citizenship. Citizenship may also be recovered by
residing in Venezuela for a period of not less than two years.
· VOLUNTARY: Letter of renunciation and passport should be sent to the nearest Venezuelan
Embassy.
213
VIETNAM
CITIZENSHIP: Based upon the Law of Vietnamese Nationality, which was last revised on July 15,
1988. New citizenship laws were passed in 1999 but have not yet been implemented.
The U.S. State Department, which provided English translation of Vietnamese Law, is the best
available source of information. Information from Vietnamese government sources was not readily
available or provided.
· When the nationality of parents changes, all of their children 18 and under are automatically
included in any change.
· The adoption or loss of Vietnamese nationality by one of the spouses does not change the
nationality of the other.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the Republic of Vietnam does not automatically confer citizenship.
Exceptions: A child born in Vietnam to parents who are stateless and have permanent
residence in Vietnam; a child found abandoned within the territory of Vietnam.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child, both of whose parents are citizens of Vietnam, regardless of the child’s country of
birth.
· Child, one of whose parents is a citizen of Vietnam and the other is stateless, regardless of
the child’s country of birth.
· Child, one of whose parents is a citizen of Vietnam and the other is a foreign national, if the
child was born in Vietnam or the parents had permanent residence in Vietnam at the time
of birth.
214
WESTERN SAHARA
The Western Sahara, formerly Spanish Sahara, bounded by Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, and the
Atlantic Ocean, is disputed territory. The inhabitants of this area travel under a variety of national
documents, but the territory itself is neither an internationally recognized state nor a recognized
part of another nation.
After Spain withdrew its protectorate, Morocco and Mauritania annexed portions of the territory, but
guerrilla forces proclaimed the region independent. Mauritania has signed a peace treaty with the
guerrillas, Morocco controls the main urban areas, and the guerrilla forces move freely in the
sparsely populated deserts. A UN-sponsored self-determination vote has been repeatedly
delayed.
Any questions on the citizenship status of people claiming citizenship of this territory should be
directed to the following address:
CA/OCS/CCS/NEA
U.S. Department of State
West Africa Bureau, Room 3250
Washington, DC 20520
Telephone: 202-647-3407
Fax: 202-647-4855
215
YEMEN
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship is based upon Citizenship Law #2, dated 1975. The formerly divided
nations of North Yemen and South Yemen were officially united on May 22, 1990.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of Yemen does not automatically confer citizenship. The
exception is a child born to unknown parents.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child born of an Yemeni father regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child born in Yemen of an Yemeni mother and an unknown father. However, if the child is
born abroad, special permission must be obtained for the child to be declared a citizen.
· MARRIAGE: A foreign woman who marries a citizen of Yemen may obtain Yemeni citizenship
after having resided in the country for two years, having formally requested citizenship, and
having renounced previous citizenship.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Yemeni citizenship:
· Person has acquired new citizenship.
· Naturalized citizen has committed a criminal act.
· Naturalized citizen has lived overseas for more than two years without government
permission.
www.nusacc.org/yeman
216
YUGOSLAVIA, FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLICS
CITIZENSHIP: The Federal Republic of Yugoslavia was proclaimed on April 17, 1992 as the union
of the republics of Serbia and Montenegro. Yugoslavia has been suspended from the United
Nations and does not have a diplomatic mission in the United States. No information was
provided.
217
ZAMBIA
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship law is set by the Constitution. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)
· BY BIRTH: Child born within the territory of Zambia shall be considered a citizen of Zambia.
However, upon reaching the age of 21, the person must apply to the Citizenship Board for the
confirmation of citizenship.
· BY DESCENT: Child, one parent being Zambian, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· BY NATURALIZATION: Parliament may grant citizenship to individuals who are not eligible to
become citizens under registration guidelines.
· Child of foreign parents, who is born in Zambia, acquires parental and Zambian citizenships.
This dual citizenship is recognized until age 21 when person must register with Citizenship
Board if the person chooses to become a Zambian citizen. Upon confirmation of Zambian
citizenship, person has three months to renounce the second citizenship (of parents). Dual
citizenship will continue to be recognized until age 22.
· Zambian spouse, who acquires a foreign citizenship through marriage, is allowed dual
nationality for 3 months. Within the 3-month period, they should have renounced their foreign
citizenship, taken an oath of allegiance, and registered their intention concerning residence.
· Person seeking Zambian citizenship, who is not able to renounce their previous citizenship,
need not make such a renunciation and can hold two nationalities. However, the person may
be required to make a declaration concerning their previous citizenship and Zambian loyalty.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: Zambia's Constitution provides that no person shall be deprived of their
citizenship if it would leave them stateless.
· INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Zambian citizenship: Person
voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship, other than through marriage.
· BY BIRTH: Birth within the Republic of Zimbabwe does not automatically confer citizenship.
· BY DESCENT:
· Child whose father is a citizen of Zimbabwe, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
· Child, born out of wedlock, whose mother is a citizen of Zimbabwe, regardless of the
child’s country of birth.
· REGISTRATION:
· Child adopted by citizens of Zimbabwe may be granted citizenship by registration.
· Citizen children born abroad must be registered at an Embassy or consulate for their
citizenship to be recognized.
· MARRIAGE: Person who marries a citizen of Zimbabwe must apply for Zimbabwean
citizenship.
· Zimbabwean citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following condition: Person
must have dwelled in the country for at least five years before requesting naturalization.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED. Prohibited to anyone 18 years old and of sound mind.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:
· INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Zimbabwean citizenship:
· Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
· A citizen of Zimbabwe by registration loses citizenship if absent from Zimbabwe for a
continuous period of seven years.
219
END OF
COUNTRY
LISTINGS
220
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
AND
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
The U.S. Department of State does not serve as a repository of foreign law but
may be able to address some issues. There are two units within the Department
that have a familiarity with the laws and practices of other nations:
DESK OFFICERS:
221
AFRICAN REGION
ALL COUNTRIES BELOW: CONSULAR NUMBER: 202-647-3149
ANGOLA 202-647-8434
BENIN 202-647-3066
BOTSWANA 202-647-9836
BURKINA FASO 202-647-2791
BURUNDI 202-647-3139
CAMEROON 202-647-1707
CAPE VERDE 202-647-1596
CENTRAL AFRICAN
REPUBLIC 202-647-1707
CHAD 202-647-1707
COMOROS 202-647-6473
CONGO 202-647-3139
CONGO, DEMOCRATIC
REPUBLIC 202-647-1707
COTE D'IVOIRE 202-647-1540
DJIBOUTI 202-647-5684
EQUATORIAL GUINEA 202-647-1707
ERITREA 202-647-6485
ETHIOPIA 202-647-9742
GABON 202-647-3139
GAMBIA, THE 202-647-3469
GHANA 202-647-1569
GUINEA 202-647-2865
GUINEA-BISSAU 202-647-1596
KENYA 202-647-6479
LESOTHO 202-647-8432
LIBERIA 202-647-4572
MADAGASCAR 202-647-6473
MALAWI 202-647-8434
MALI 202-647-2791
MAURITANIA 202-647-2865
MAURITIUS 202-647-6473
MOZAMBIQUE 202-647-8434
NAMIBIA 202-647-8434
NIGER 202-647-2791
NIGERIA 202-647-1597
RWANDA 202-647-3139
SAO TOME 202-647-3139
SENEGAL 202-647-2865
SEYCHELLES 202-647-6473
SIERRA LEONE 202-647-4567
SOUTH AFRICA 202-647-8432
SUDAN 202-647-4679
SWAZILAND 202-647-8434
TANZANIA 202-647-8852
TOGO 202-647-1540
UGANDA 202-647-6479
ZAMBIA 202-647-8432
ZIMBABWE 202-647-9836
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CENTRAL and SOUTH AMERICAN REGIONS
ALL COUNTRIES BELOW: CONSULAR NUMBER: 202-647-3712
ANTIGUA/BARBUDA 202-647-2621
ARGENTINA 202-647-2401
BAHAMAS 202-647-2621
BARBADOS 202-647-2130
BELIZE 202-647-3381
BOLIVIA 202-647-3076
BRAZIL 202-647-9407
CHILE 202-647-2401
COLOMBIA 202-647-3023
COSTA RICA 202-647-3518
CUBA 202-647-9272
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 202-647-2620
ECUADOR 202-647-3338
EL SALVADOR 202-647-3681
GRENADA 202-647-2621
GUATEMALA 202-647-1145
GUYANA 202-647-2621
HAITI 202-736-4707
HONDURAS 202-647-0087
JAMAICA 202-647-2620
MEXICO 202-647-9894
NICARAGUA 202-647-1570
PANAMA 202-647-4986
PARAGUAY 202-647-2296
PERU 202-647-3360
ST. KITTS 202-647-2130
ST. LUCIA 202-647-2130
ST. VINCENT AND
THE GRENADINES 202-647-2130
SURINAME 202-647-2620
TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 202-647-2621
URUGUAY 202-647-2296
VENEZUELA 202-647-3023
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EAST ASIAN and PACIFIC REGIONS
ALL COUNTRIES BELOW: CONSULAR NUMBER: 202-647-3675
AUSTRALIA 202-647-9691
BRUNEI 202-647-3276
CAMBODIA 202-647-3133
CHINA 202-647-6300
FIJI 202-647-3546
HONG KONG 202-647-6300
INDONESIA 202-647-3276
JAPAN 202-647-3152
KIRIBATI 202-647-4741
KOREA, NORTH 202-647-7717
KOREA, SOUTH 202-647-7717
LAOS 202-647-3133
MACAO 202-647-6300
MALAYSIA 202-647-3276
MARSHALL ISLANDS 202-647-4741
MICRONESIA 202-647-0108
MONGOLIA 202-647-6300
MYANMAR/BURMA 202-647-7108
NAURU 202-647-9690
NEW ZEALAND 202-647-9690
PALAU 202-647-4743
PAPUA NEW GUINEA 202-647-9690
PHILIPPINES 202-647-1221
SAMOA 202-647-9690
SINGAPORE 202-647-3278
SOLOMON ISLANDS 202-647-9690
TAIWAN 202-647-7711
THAILAND 202-647-3132
TONGA 202-647-9690
TUVALU 202-647-9690
VANUATU 202-647-9690
VIETNAM 202-647-3133
224
EUROPEAN and CANADIAN REGIONS
ALBANIA 202-647-3747
ANDORRA 202-647-1412
AUSTRIA 202-647-2005
BELARUS 202-647-6764
BELGIUM 202-647-6664
BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA 202-736-7024
BULGARIA 202-647-0310
CANADA 202-647-3135
CROATIA 202-736-7361
CYPRUS 202-647-6113
CZECH REPUBLIC 202-647-1457
DENMARK 202-647-5669
ESTONIA 202-647-5669
FINLAND 202-647-5669
FRANCE 202-647-1412
GERMANY 202-647-2005
GREECE 202-647-6113
HUNGARY 202-647-3238
ICELAND 202-647-5669
IRELAND 202-647-8027
ITALY 202-647-3746
LATVIA 202-647-1030
LITHUANIA 202-647-5669
LUXEMBOURG 202-647-6664
MALTA 202-647-3746
MOLDOVA 202-647-6733
MONACO 202-647-1412
NETHERLANDS 202-647-6664
NORWAY 202-647-5669
POLAND 202-647-4139
PORTUGAL 202-647-1412
ROMANIA 202-647-4272
RUSSIA 202-647-9806
SLOVAKIA 202-647-3191
SLOVENIA 202-647-7152
SPAIN 202-647-1419
SWEDEN 202-647-5669
SWITZERLAND 202-647-2005
TURKISH CYPRUS 202-647-6113
UKRAINE 202-647-8696
UNITED KINGDOM 202-647-8027
YUGOSLAVIA 202-647-7480
225
NEAR EASTERN and SOUTH ASIAN REGIONS
COUNTRY CONSULAR NUMBER DESK OFFICER NUMBER
226
OTHER COUNTRIES and TERRITORIES
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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS, INTERNATIONAL LAW DIVISION
LAW LIBRARY
The Reading Room provides legal reference service and makes referrals to the foreign legal
specialists in the Directorate of Legal Research.
The Directorate of Legal Research, consisting of the Eastern and Western Law Divisions and the
Research and Reference Support Unit, provides legal research and reference services in foreign,
comparative, and international laws.
COUNTRIES COVERED: Europe, including the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, and the laws of the
European Union (excluding Belgium, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, and certain countries in eastern Europe);
Australia, Bhutan, Canada, Central and Latin America, India, Malta, Mexico, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan,
Philippines, Puerto Rico, Sri Lanka, English-speaking Caribbean countries, and former British colonies in the
Pacific; certain former Dutch, French, Spanish, and Portuguese colonies.
COUNTRIES COVERED: East Asia, Southeast Asia, including China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, the
Koreas, Malaysia, Myanmar (Burma), Singapore, and some former British and French possessions; Near and
Middle Eastern countries, including the Arab States, Iran, Israel, and Turkey; Africa except for the Spanish
and Portuguese-language states and possessions; Belgium, Liechtenstein, and Luxembourg; certain countries
in eastern Europe, such as Czech Republic, Poland, Romania, and Slovak Republic; Russia and the former
Republics of the Soviet Union.
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INFORMATION and DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE
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