Naturalization is the legal act or process by which a non-citizen in a country may acquire citizenship or nationality of a foreign state.
Naturalization can exist in several forms
- Discretionary
- Ordinary
- Exceptional
- Investment (only possible in CY, MT, AG, KN, MD, ME, LC, GD, DM, TK, VU)
| Afghanistan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Afghanistan for 5 years. Other conditions: no crime committed during his/her stay in Afghanistan. |
| Albania | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person has been lawfully resident in Albania for at least 5 continuous years. Other conditions: dwelling and sufficient income, no sentence in any country for a criminal offence that carries a prison sentence of at least 3 years (exemption only if the sentence was given for political motives), elementary knowledge of the Albanian language, no danger to security and defence of Albania. |
| Algeria | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has lived in the country for a minimum of 7 years. Other conditions: have assimilated, receive an income, be of good character, and not have a disability. |
| Angola | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Angola for 10 years. Other conditions: able to govern him/herself and secure subsistence (evidenced by regular tax payment in previous 3 years), sufficient knowledge of Portuguese as proved in an exam, effective link to national community proved by exam, adequate knowledge of rights and duties under the constitution, not convicted of crime punishable by more than 3 years in prison. |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in A&B for 12 months immediately prior to the application (exemption for British protected persons), as well as during 5 out of 7 years predating the 12-month period. Other conditions: good character, full capacity, intent to reside in A&B, and oath of allegiance. Minister is explicitly allowed to waive certain requirements. |
| Argentina | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person has been resident in Argentina for a continuous period of at least 2 years and expresses his or her will to acquire citizenship before a federal district judge. Other conditions: honest source of income or occupation, no convictions for a crime committed in Argentina or abroad that carries a prison sentence of 3 years or more (unless the sentence has been served and the application for naturalisation is submitted 5 years after serving the sentence, or when amnesty has been granted), no criminal proceedings initiatives against the person in Argentina or abroad, and oath of loyalty. Judge may deny naturalisation if the applicant publicly advocates the overthrow of the democratic system, the use of violence, or denies the value of the human rights system. Political, ideological, trade union-related, religious or racial considerations can have no effect on the acquisition of citizenship. |
| Armenia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been lawfully resident in Armenia for 3 years. Other conditions: proficiency in the Armenian language, familiarity with the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia, his/her activities do not violate state and social security, public order, protection of the public health and traditions or rights, freedoms, dignity and good reputation of others, and oath of allegiance. |
| Australia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person must have been lawfully resident in Australia for 4 years immediately prior to making the application and holding permanent resident status for the last 12 months of that period. Other conditions: sit a citizenship test, Minister must be satisfied that the person is likely to reside, or to continue to reside, in Australia or to maintain a close and continuing association with Australia, and person is of good character at the time of the Minister’s decision. |
| Austria | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Austria for 10 years, of which 5 years with a permanent resident permit immediately before the application. Other conditions: no criminal convictions, positive attitude towards Austria, no danger to public peace, order and security, secure income, no relations to other states that would harm the interests of the country, renunciation or automatic loss of citizenship of another country (unless legally impossible or unreasonable due to high fees), proficiency in language of the country (certification), knowledge of Austrian democratic order and history and of the federal province responsible for the administration of naturalisation (citizenship test). |
| Azerbaijan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has had 5 years of permanent and uninterrupted residence. Other conditions: knowledge of language (certificate), legal source of income, commitment to abide by the Constitution. Application is rejected if the person calls for forcible change in the state structure set by the Constitution of the Azerbaijan Republic, for disturbing its territorial integrity, performs activities that cause damage to state security, public order, the health and morality of the population, propagandises racial, religious and national hatred, or has relations with terrorist activities. |
| Bahamas | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in the Bahamas for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was either resident in the country, in the service of the government, or had partly such residence and partly such service for 6 out of 9 years prior to the 12-month period. Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, good character, full capacity, sufficient knowledge of English and of the duties of a citizen, intent to make the Bahamas his/her permanent home (either by residence or government service), and oath of allegiance. Minister is explicitly allowed to waive certain requirements. |
| Bahrain | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Bahrain for at least 25 years. Other conditions: speak Arabic, have good character, and own real estate. |
| Bangladesh | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Bangladesh for 12 months immediately prior to the application, as well as during 4 out of 7 years predating the 12-month period, or the person has been ordinarily resident in Bangladesh for 5 years. Other conditions: good character, intent to reside in Bangladesh or to enter or continue in the service of Bangladesh, renunciation of citizenship of another country, and oath of allegiance. Further information may be required, such as person’s income and its source, properties owned in Bangladesh, and particulars of the family members residing in Bangladesh. |
| Barbados | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Barbados for 12 months immediately prior to the application (exemption for British protected persons), as well as during 5 out of 7 years predating the 12-month period. Other conditions: good character, full capacity, intent to reside in Barbados, and oath of allegiance. Minister is explicitly allowed to waive certain requirements. |
| Belarus | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has had 7 years of uninterrupted residence in the country. Other conditions: commitment to respect the Constitution and the laws of the country, knowledge of at least one the official languages, regular employment or source of income, renunciation of other citizenship (unless it is impossible), no criminal record. |
| Belgium | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Declaration;
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Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country, no convictions for serious criminal offence, adequate social integration and work participation;
Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: no convictions for serious criminal offence and demonstration that he/she cannot work or is retired; Persons has been resident in Belgium for at least 10 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country (certification), no convictions for serious criminal offence, and adequate participation in local community.Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country, no convictions for serious criminal offence, adequate social integration and work participation; Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: no convictions for serious criminal offence and demonstration that he/she cannot work or is retired; Persons has been resident in Belgium for at least 10 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country (certification), no convictions for serious criminal offence, and adequate participation in local community.Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country, no convictions for serious criminal offence, adequate social integration and work participation; Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: no convictions for serious criminal offence and demonstration that he/she cannot work or is retired; Persons has been resident in Belgium for at least 10 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country (certification), no convictions for serious criminal offence, and adequate participation in local community.Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country, no convictions for serious criminal offence, adequate social integration and work participation; Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: no convictions for serious criminal offence and demonstration that he/she cannot work or is retired; Persons has been resident in Belgium for at least 10 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country (certification), no convictions for serious criminal offence, and adequate participation in local community.Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country, no convictions for serious criminal offence, adequate social integration and work participation; Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: no convictions for serious criminal offence and demonstration that he/she cannot work or is retired; Persons has been resident in Belgium for at least 10 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country (certification), no convictions for serious criminal offence, and adequate participation in local community.Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country, no convictions for serious criminal offence, adequate social integration and work participation; Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: no convictions for serious criminal offence and demonstration that he/she cannot work or is retired; Persons has been resident in Belgium for at least 10 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country (certification), no convictions for serious criminal offence, and adequate participation in local community.Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country, no convictions for serious criminal offence, adequate social integration and work participation; Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: no convictions for serious criminal offence and demonstration that he/she cannot work or is retired; Persons has been resident in Belgium for at least 10 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country (certification), no convictions for serious criminal offence, and adequate participation in local community.Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country, no convictions for serious criminal offence, adequate social integration and work participation; Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: no convictions for serious criminal offence and demonstration that he/she cannot work or is retired; Persons has been resident in Belgium for at least 10 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country (certification), no convictions for serious criminal offence, and adequate participation in local community.Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country, no convictions for serious criminal offence, adequate social integration and work participation; Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: no convictions for serious criminal offence and demonstration that he/she cannot work or is retired; Persons has been resident in Belgium for at least 10 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country (certification), no convictions for serious criminal offence, and adequate participation in local community.Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country, no convictions for serious criminal offence, adequate social integration and work participation; Person has been resident in Belgium for at least 5 years. Other conditions: no convictions for serious criminal offence and demonstration that he/she cannot work or is retired; Persons has been resident in Belgium for at least 10 years. Other conditions: proficiency in language of the country (certification), no convictions for serious criminal offence, and adequate participation in local community. |
| Belize | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Registration (entitlement) | Person has been ordinarily resident in Belize for 5 years immediately prior to the application, and intends to continue to do so. Other conditions: sound mind, good character, no conviction for serious criminal offences, no threat to safety or public order of Belize, not been declared bankrupt, sufficient means for self-support. |
| Benin | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Benin for 3 years. Other conditions: good conduct, never convicted with prison sentence of more than 1 year, good mental and physical health, assimilated to Beninois community, in particular by knowledge of a national language or the official language (French). |
| Bhutan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is 21 years or older, has been resident in Bhutan for 20 years, and this period of residence has been registered in the census. Other conditions: good character, full capacity, proficiency in Dzongkha language (oral, written and passive), good knowledge of culture, customs, traditions and history of Bhutan, no record of imprisonment for criminal offences in Bhutan or abroad, no record of having spoken or acted against the king, country and people of Bhutan, and oath of allegiance. |
| Bolivia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been legally resident in Bolivia for a continuous period of 3 years, passed a written examination of general knowledge concerning Bolivian history, and no criminal record. |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person has been resident in BiH for 3 years immediately before the application. Other conditions: sufficient command of one of the official languages of BiH, was not expelled from BiH by the competent authority, was not sentenced to imprisonment for more than 3 years within the 8 years preceding the request, renounces or loses in any other way another citizenship, unless regulated otherwise by a bilateral agreement with the country in question (renunciation or loss of another citizenship will not be required if it is not allowed, or is unreasonable to request), no ongoing criminal procedure against the person (unless unreasonable to request a proof thereof), no threat to security of BiH, have sufficient permanent source of income or be able to provide evidence of sufficient funds, has no tax or other financial obligations, signs a statement accepting the legal system and constitutional order of BiH, and possesses a valid guarantee of acquiring citizenship of BiH. |
| Botswana | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Botswana for a continuous period of 12 months prior to the application, and has been resident for at least 10 out of the previous 12 years. Other conditions: good character, sufficient knowledge of Setswana or other language spoken by a ‘tribal community’ in Botswana.Person has been resident in Botswana for a continuous period of 12 months prior to the application, and has been resident for at least 10 out of the previous 12 years. Other conditions: good character, sufficient knowledge of Setswana or other language spoken by a ‘tribal community’ in Botswana.Person has been resident in Botswana for a continuous period of 12 months prior to the application, and has been resident for at least 10 out of the previous 12 years. Other conditions: good character, sufficient knowledge of Setswana or other language spoken by a ‘tribal community’ in Botswana.Person has been resident in Botswana for a continuous period of 12 months prior to the application, and has been resident for at least 10 out of the previous 12 years. Other conditions: good character, sufficient knowledge of Setswana or other language spoken by a ‘tribal community’ in Botswana.Person has been resident in Botswana for a continuous period of 12 months prior to the application, and has been resident for at least 10 out of the previous 12 years. Other conditions: good character, sufficient knowledge of Setswana or other language spoken by a ‘tribal community’ in Botswana.Person has been resident in Botswana for a continuous period of 12 months prior to the application, and has been resident for at least 10 out of the previous 12 years. Other conditions: good character, sufficient knowledge of Setswana or other language spoken by a ‘tribal community’ in Botswana.Person has been resident in Botswana for a continuous period of 12 months prior to the application, and has been resident for at least 10 out of the previous 12 years. Other conditions: good character, sufficient knowledge of Setswana or other language spoken by a ‘tribal community’ in Botswana.Person has been resident in Botswana for a continuous period of 12 months prior to the application, and has been resident for at least 10 out of the previous 12 years. Other conditions: good character, sufficient knowledge of Setswana or other language spoken by a ‘tribal community’ in Botswana.Person has been resident in Botswana for a continuous period of 12 months prior to the application, and has been resident for at least 10 out of the previous 12 years. Other conditions: good character, sufficient knowledge of Setswana or other language spoken by a ‘tribal community’ in Botswana.Person has been resident in Botswana for a continuous period of 12 months prior to the application, and has been resident for at least 10 out of the previous 12 years. Other conditions: good character, sufficient knowledge of Setswana or other language spoken by a ‘tribal community’ in Botswana. |
| Brazil | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Ordinary naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been permanently resident in Brazil for at least 4 years immediately prior to the application and continues to do so. Other conditions: legal capacity, knowledge of the Portuguese language (applicant’s conditions are taken into account), source of income or occupation sufficient for self-support and his/her family, good behaviour, no convictions in Brazil or abroad for committing a crime that carries a prison sentence of 1 year or more, and good health. |
| Brunei | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been lawfully resident in Brunei for at least 20 years in the aggregate within a period of 25 years immediately prior to the application, as well as throughout the 2 years immediately prior to the application. Other conditions: able to speak the Malay language with proficiency (unless person has physical or speech/hearing impediment), good character, unlikely to become a charge on Brunei, intent to settle permanentely in the country, and oath of allegiance. |
| Bulgaria | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has had permanent residence in Bulgaria for at least 5 years prior to the application. Other conditions: no convictions of intentional crime and no criminal proceedings initiatives against the person, source of income and occupation sufficient for support, command of language of Bulgaria, and renunciation of another citizenship. |
| Burkina Faso | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually and legally resident in Burkina Faso for 10 years. Other conditions: good character, sound mind, no criminal convictions for more than 1 year in prison. |
| Burundi | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident at least 10 years. Other conditions: at least 21 years old (or if less, application submitted with that of a parent), good conduct, behaviour and customs, no convictions for crime or other offence, attachment to the Burundian nation and assimilation with Burundian citizens. |
| Cambodia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is resident in Cambodia and has been continuously resident there for 7 years from the moment s/he received a residence card. Other conditions: good morals, clean criminal record, ability to speak the Khmer language, knowledge of Khmer script and history, evidence that person can integrate into Khmer society, physical and mental health so as not to become a danger or burden to society. |
| Cameroon | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually resident for 5 years preceding the application. Other conditions: 21 years or older, Cameroon is his/her centre of principal interests, good character, not convicted of crime, sound mind and body. No residence period required if born in Cameroon. |
| Canada | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person has been resident for 4 out 6 years immediately preceding the application and physically present for 183 days each year. Other conditions: meet the Income Tax Act requirements to file income tax returns for 4 of those 6 years, language (in French or English) test and knowledge of Canada and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship, no extradition order issued against the person, no danger to public security, intent to reside in Canada, attend a citizenship ceremony and take a citizenship oath |
| Cape Verde | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually resident in Cape Verde for at least 5 years. Other conditions: good character, capacity to make decisions and support him/herself. |
| Central African Republic | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been legally and habitually resident for 5 years. No other conditions. |
| Chad | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Chad for 15 years. Other conditions: no physical or mental incapacity that could be a charge on the collectivity, no conviction for crime subject to imprisonment. Granted by joint decree of ministers of interior and public health. If decree is not issued within 1 year of application, it is considered rejected. |
| Chile | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person is 21 years or older, has lived for a continuous period of at least 5 years in Chile, and was granted permanent residence. Other conditions: renunciation of citizenship of another country, no convictions for delicts or crimes and no criminal proceedings initiatives against the person for such offences, source of income sufficient for support, no danger to social and political order, good morals, and no threat to Chilean interests and security. |
| China | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is settled in China, is a near relative of a Chinese citizen or has other legitimate reasons. Other conditions: willing to abide by China’s Constitution and laws, and renunciation of citizenship of another country. |
| Colombia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been legally and continuously resident in Colombia for 5 years immediately preceding the application. Other conditions: proficiency in Spanish (except for those who know an indigenous language spoken in Colombia, who have had secondary or university education in Colombia, or who are older than 65 years), knowledge of basic principles of the Constitution, history and geography of Colombia (except for those who have had secondary or university education in Colombia, or who are older than 65 years), proof of employment in the country, and oath of loyalty. |
| Comoros | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been legally resident for 10 years. Other conditions: good character, sound mind, good physical health, assimilation to Comorian community. |
| Costa Rica | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is a non-citizen or a citizen other than by birth of Spain, a Central American country or an Iberoamerican country, and has been resident in Costa Rica for at least 7 years. Other conditions: good behaviour, known source of income or occupation sufficient for self-support and that of his/her family, clean criminal record, knowledge of Spanish (oral, written and passive), knowledge of the history of Costa Rica and its values, promise to reside within the national territory on a permanent basis, oath of loyalty, not being a citizen of a country with which Costa Rica is at war, no conviction in Costa Rica or abroad for any of the listed offences (including drug smuggling). |
| Croatia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person has been resident in Croatia for 8 years immediately before the application. Other conditions: renunciation or automatic loss of another citizenship, unless the person is stateless (a statement is sufficient if the other country does not allow renouncing citizenship, or places conditions which cannot be fulfilled), proficient in language of Croatia, respect for the legal order, customs and culture of the country. |
| Cuba | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person has been resident in Cuba for 5 years and knows the Spanish language. |
| Cyprus | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person was resident in Cyprus for a total period of 5 years within a period of 7 years, of which the year immediately prior to the submission of the application must be continuous. By way of exception, certain categories of persons (e.g. domestic workers, students) must have been resident in Cyprus for a total period of 7 years before the submission of the application, of which the last 12 months should be continuous. Other conditions: good character, intention to remain in Cyprus or at service of Cyprus, mental capacity written and published loyalty oath to the country. |
| Czech Republic | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in the Czech Republic for 5 years and has a permanent residence permit. Other conditions: clear criminal record, proficiency in language of the Czech Republic, civic knowledge test, integrated in society, no risk to security of the state, life, health or material values, fulfilment of obligations under immigration law and other laws (e.g. payment of health and social security insurance, taxes etc), proof of sufficient legal income and proof that he/she has not been a public burden during the last 3 years.
Person has been resident in the Czech Republic for 5 years and has a permanent residence permit. Other conditions: clear criminal record, proficiency in language of the Czech Republic, civic knowledge test, integrated in society, no risk to security of the state, life, health or material values, fulfilment of obligations under immigration law and other laws (e.g. payment of health and social security insurance, taxes etc), proof of sufficient legal income and proof that he/she has not been a public burden during the last 3 years. Person has been resident in the Czech Republic for 5 years and has a permanent residence permit. Other conditions: clear criminal record, proficiency in language of the Czech Republic, civic knowledge test, integrated in society, no risk to security of the state, life, health or material values, fulfilment of obligations under immigration law and other laws (e.g. payment of health and social security insurance, taxes etc), proof of sufficient legal income and proof that he/she has not been a public burden during the last 3 years. Person has been resident in the Czech Republic for 5 years and has a permanent residence permit. Other conditions: clear criminal record, proficiency in language of the Czech Republic, civic knowledge test, integrated in society, no risk to security of the state, life, health or material values, fulfilment of obligations under immigration law and other laws (e.g. payment of health and social security insurance, taxes etc), proof of sufficient legal income and proof that he/she has not been a public burden during the last 3 years. Person has been resident in the Czech Republic for 5 years and has a permanent residence permit. Other conditions: clear criminal record, proficiency in language of the Czech Republic, civic knowledge test, integrated in society, no risk to security of the state, life, health or material values, fulfilment of obligations under immigration law and other laws (e.g. payment of health and social security insurance, taxes etc), proof of sufficient legal income and proof that he/she has not been a public burden during the last 3 years. Person has been resident in the Czech Republic for 5 years and has a permanent residence permit. Other conditions: clear criminal record, proficiency in language of the Czech Republic, civic knowledge test, integrated in society, no risk to security of the state, life, health or material values, fulfilment of obligations under immigration law and other laws (e.g. payment of health and social security insurance, taxes etc), proof of sufficient legal income and proof that he/she has not been a public burden during the last 3 years. Person has been resident in the Czech Republic for 5 years and has a permanent residence permit. Other conditions: clear criminal record, proficiency in language of the Czech Republic, civic knowledge test, integrated in society, no risk to security of the state, life, health or material values, fulfilment of obligations under immigration law and other laws (e.g. payment of health and social security insurance, taxes etc), proof of sufficient legal income and proof that he/she has not been a public burden during the last 3 years. Person has been resident in the Czech Republic for 5 years and has a permanent residence permit. Other conditions: clear criminal record, proficiency in language of the Czech Republic, civic knowledge test, integrated in society, no risk to security of the state, life, health or material values, fulfilment of obligations under immigration law and other laws (e.g. payment of health and social security insurance, taxes etc), proof of sufficient legal income and proof that he/she has not been a public burden during the last 3 years. Person has been resident in the Czech Republic for 5 years and has a permanent residence permit. Other conditions: clear criminal record, proficiency in language of the Czech Republic, civic knowledge test, integrated in society, no risk to security of the state, life, health or material values, fulfilment of obligations under immigration law and other laws (e.g. payment of health and social security insurance, taxes etc), proof of sufficient legal income and proof that he/she has not been a public burden during the last 3 years.
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| Denmark | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Denmark for 9 years with a permanent residence permit at the time of application. Other conditions: self-support (meaning no receipt of social assistance within the last year before the application and not more than 6 months receipt of social assistance within the last 5 years), no due debts to the state, no criminal indictments or convictions, language certification, knowledge of society (citizenship test), and oath of loyalty to society, laws and legal principles of Denmark. |
| Djibouti | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually resident in Djibouti for at least 10 years. Other conditions: good character, good health, assimilation demonstrated by one of the languages used in Djibouti, no convictions for crime against state security, no convictions for various other offences (including related to fraud) and sentenced to more than 6 months imprisonment, not subject to expulsion or house arrest. |
| Dominica | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Dominica for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was either resident in Dominica, in the service of the government, or had partly such residence and partly such service for 7 years predating the 12-month period. Other conditions: good character, full capacity, adequate knowledge of English and of the duties of a citizen, intent to reside in Dominica or to continue government service, and oath of allegiance. Minister is explicitly allowed to waive certain requirements. |
| Dominican Republic | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in the DR for at least 2 years uninterrupted. Age at which naturalisation can be requested can be lowered from 18 to 16 if the person is married or authorized by his/her parents/legal representative. |
| East Timor | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually and regularly resident in Timor-Leste for at least 10 years counted before 7 December 1975 or after 20 May 2002. Other requirements: full age under Timorese law and under the law of the State of origin, ability to speak one of the official languages, moral and civic guarantees of integration into Timorese society, capacity to govern oneself and to provide for own subsistence, knowledge of the history and culture of Timor-Leste. |
| Ecuador | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Ecuador for at least 3 years. Other conditions: full capacity, good morals, ability to support oneself as well as family, written and oral proficiency in Spanish, general knowledge of the Constitution, history and geography of Ecuador, and no criminal convictions, chronic or contagious disease, or activities aimed at the overthrow of the constitutional order or contrary to the national integrity. |
| Egypt | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Egypt for 10 years. Other conditions: mental health, no disability making a burden on society, good conduct and reputation, no criminal penalty restricting freedom for a crime of honour, acquainted with Arabic language, legal means of earning a living. |
| El Salvador | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in El Salvador for 5 years, swears an oath of loyalty, is not a citizen of a country with which El Salvador is at war, and no convictions of crimes committed in the country or abroad or criminal proceedings initiatives against the person. |
| Equatorial Guinea | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been legally resident for at least 40 years. Other conditions: no criminal convictions in Equatorial Guinea, no convictions for a serious crime in another country, demonstrate integration through knowledge of Spanish language, an indigenous language, the culture, habits and customs of Equatorial Guinea, renounce citizenship of another country, certificate of tax payment (solvencia tributaria). (Note: there are other conditions that appear procedural but could be seen as substantive, eg certificate of good conduct (corresponds to no convictions.) |
| Eritrea | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is not of ‘Eritrean origin’ and has been legally resident in Eritrea for at least 10 years before 1974 or at least 20 years while making visits abroad. Other conditions: high integrity and not convicted of any crime, understands and speaks one of languages of Eritrea, free of any mental or physical handicap, will not become a burden on Eritrean society and can provide for own and family’s needs, has renounced citizenship of any other country, will be permanently domiciled in Eritrea, has not committed anti-people acts during the Eritrean liberation struggle. |
| Estonia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Estonia for 8 years, of which the last 5 years permanently. Other conditions: permanent legal income, knowledge of the language of Estonia, knowledge of the Constitution and the Citizenship Act (citizenship test), loyalty to the country, and renunciation of citizenship of another country. |
| Ethiopia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been domiciled in Ethiopia for at least 4 years. Other conditions: able to communicate in any of national languages, sufficent lawful source of income, good character, no criminal convictions, renounce citizenship of another country. |
| Finland | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Finland for 5 years uninterrupted, or 7 years since the age of 15 with the last 2 years uninterrupted. (In both cases the residence requirement can be shortened with 1 year if applicant meets language requirements.) Other conditions: person has not committed a punishable act (unless the punishment has been a summary penal fee) nor has a restraining order been issued against him/her, has not materially failed to provide maintenance or meet pecuniary obligations under public law, can provide a reliable account of livelihood, has satisfactory oral and written skills in the Finnish or Swedish language or similar skills in the Finnish or Finland-Swedish sign language (language skills requirement). |
| France | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in France for 5 years. (Residence requirement may be waived for certain categories including refugees.) Other conditions: good character, no criminal convictions of a certain kind, assimilation (especially language skills and knowledge of the rights and duties attached to French citizenship). |
| Gabon | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Gabon for at least 5 years. Other conditions: aged at least 21 years, good character, does not have a serious physical or mental incapacity not incurred for the benefit of Gabon or a Gabonese citizen, and no criminal convictions. |
| Gambia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been ordinarily resident in The Gambia for a continuous period of not less than 15 years. Other conditions: good character, intention to permanently reside, capable of supporting self and dependants, renounce citizenship of another country. |
| Georgia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been lawfully resident for 5 years. Other conditions: knowledge of the language as well as the history and the basic principles of the law, have a job and/or real estate in Georgia, or carry on business on the territory of Georgia or hold an interest or shares in a Georgian enterprise, renunciation of other citizenship, and positive security check. |
| Germany | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement); Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is over the age of 16, has been resident in Germany for 8 years and is entitled to permanent residence. Other conditions: express commitment to the Constitution (declaration of loyalty), no activities hostile to the Constitution, ability to support oneself and one’s family without social security or unemployment benefit, no criminal convictions (minor offenses excepted), renunciation or automatic loss of citizenship of another country (unless this is legally impossible or unreasonable), proficient in German language, and knowledge of the German legal and societal system; Person has resided in Germany for at least 8 years (administrative regulation 8.1.2.2.). Other conditions: express commitment to the Constitution (declaration of loyalty), proficient in German language, no activities hostile to the Constitution, residence permit, ability to support oneself and one’s family without social security or unemployment benefit, no criminal convictions (minor offenses excepted), renunciation or automatic loss of citizenship of another country (unless this is legally impossible or unreasonable) (administrative regulation 8.1.1. and 8.1.2.). |
| Ghana | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary); Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is a citizen of any approved country and has been ordinarily resident for at least 5 years. Other conditions: can speak and understand an indigenous language of Ghana; Person has been legally resident in Ghana for an aggregate period of at least 5 years over 7 years, including the 12 months preceding the date of application. Other conditions: good character, not sentenced in Ghana or elsewhere to imprisonment, able to speak and understand an indigenous Ghanaian language, capable of making a substantial contribution, assimilated into the Ghanaian way of life. |
| Greece | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been permanently resident in Greece for 7 years. Other conditions: no criminal record of certain crimes, stable income, sufficient knowledge of the language, history and culture of Greece. |
| Grenada | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Grenada for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was either resident in Grenada, or in government service, or had partly such residence and partly such service for 5 out of 7 years predating the 12-month period. Other conditions: good character, full capacity, sufficient knowledge of English, intent to reside in Grenada or continue government service, and oath of allegiance (only for British protected persons and persons who are not Commonwealth citizens or citizens of Ireland). Minister is explicitly allowed to waive certain requirements. |
| Guatemala | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Guatemala for 5 years uninterrupted or 10 years in total. Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, good behaviour, source of income or occupation sufficient for support, language and civics test, and oath of loyalty. |
| Guinea | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually resident in Guinea for at least 5 years. Other conditions: good character, not sentenced to more than 1 year in prison and for various listed offences, sound mind, physical health means will not be a burden or a danger to the community (unless contracted in service of Guinea). Residence period reduced to 2 years if born in Guinea. |
| Guinea Bissau | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretion) | Person has been habitually resident in Guinea Bissau for at least 6 years. Other conditions: knowledge of the Guinean culture and identification with it, tie to the national community, not convicted to sentence of more than 6 years imprisonment or for a crime against the security of the state, not exercised political or sovereign functions in favour of another state, and has not served in the military of another state. |
| Guyana | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Guyana for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and 5 out of 7 years prior to the 12-month period. Other conditions: good character and intent to reside in the country. Minister is explicitly allowed to waive certain requirements. Less stringent conditions apply to British protected persons. |
| Haiti | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Haiti for 5 years. Other conditions: renunciation of citizenship of another country. |
| Honduras | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Honduras for a continuous period of 3 years. Other conditions: full capacity, source of income or occupation sufficient for support (or person is dependent on parents or spouse), good behaviour, clean criminal record (both abroad and in Honduras), general knowledge of the history, geography and constitution of Honduras, renunciation of another citizenship (unless dual citizenship treaty applies), and oath of loyalty. |
| Hungary | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Hungary for 8 years with a settlement permit. Other conditions: clean criminal record, self-subsistence, knowledge of constitutional issues (citizenship test), and no threat to Hungarian interests. |
| Iceland | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Iceland for 7 years. Other conditions: no criminal convictions, capable of working and have a good reputation, proficiency in Icelandic language (language test), property not subject to encumbrance or liens, capable of self-support, and has not received a support grant from a local authority for the past 3 years. |
| India | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is of full age and capacity, is not an illegal migrant, and has been resident in India or abroad in the service of India for 12 months immediately prior to the application, as well as during 11 out of 14 years predating the 12-month period. Other conditions: good character, knowledge of a language specified in the Constitution, not from a country where Indian citizens are prevented by law or practices from naturalising, renunciation of citizenship of another country, intent to reside in India or to enter or continue in the service of India, and oath of allegiance. |
| Indonesia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been continuously resident in Indonesia for 5 years or intermittently for 10 years. Other conditions: person is 18 years or married, sound in health and mind, able to speak Bahasa Indonesia, acknowledges the basic principles of Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution, has never been prosecuted for acts of crime and sentenced to prison for 1 year or more, is employed and/or has a steady income, swears an oath of allegiance, and renounces citizenship of another country. Person has been continuously resident in Indonesia for 5 years or intermittently for 10 years. Other conditions: person is 18 years or married, sound in health and mind, able to speak Bahasa Indonesia, acknowledges the basic principles of Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution, has never been prosecuted for acts of crime and sentenced to prison for 1 year or more, is employed and/or has a steady income, swears an oath of allegiance, and renounces citizenship of another country. Person has been continuously resident in Indonesia for 5 years or intermittently for 10 years. Other conditions: person is 18 years or married, sound in health and mind, able to speak Bahasa Indonesia, acknowledges the basic principles of Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution, has never been prosecuted for acts of crime and sentenced to prison for 1 year or more, is employed and/or has a steady income, swears an oath of allegiance, and renounces citizenship of another country. Person has been continuously resident in Indonesia for 5 years or intermittently for 10 years. Other conditions: person is 18 years or married, sound in health and mind, able to speak Bahasa Indonesia, acknowledges the basic principles of Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution, has never been prosecuted for acts of crime and sentenced to prison for 1 year or more, is employed and/or has a steady income, swears an oath of allegiance, and renounces citizenship of another country. Person has been continuously resident in Indonesia for 5 years or intermittently for 10 years. Other conditions: person is 18 years or married, sound in health and mind, able to speak Bahasa Indonesia, acknowledges the basic principles of Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution, has never been prosecuted for acts of crime and sentenced to prison for 1 year or more, is employed and/or has a steady income, swears an oath of allegiance, and renounces citizenship of another country. Person has been continuously resident in Indonesia for 5 years or intermittently for 10 years. Other conditions: person is 18 years or married, sound in health and mind, able to speak Bahasa Indonesia, acknowledges the basic principles of Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution, has never been prosecuted for acts of crime and sentenced to prison for 1 year or more, is employed and/or has a steady income, swears an oath of allegiance, and renounces citizenship of another country. Person has been continuously resident in Indonesia for 5 years or intermittently for 10 years. Other conditions: person is 18 years or married, sound in health and mind, able to speak Bahasa Indonesia, acknowledges the basic principles of Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution, has never been prosecuted for acts of crime and sentenced to prison for 1 year or more, is employed and/or has a steady income, swears an oath of allegiance, and renounces citizenship of another country. |
| Iran | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | 5 years, additional requirements must be met |
| Iraq | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in the country for 10 years. Other conditions: has an income, is of good character, and has no disability. Palestinians are excluded. |
| Ireland | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Ireland for 5 out of the last 9 years, including the year preceding the application. Other conditions: good character, intention to continue to reside in Ireland, declaration of fidelity and loyalty to the country. |
| Israel | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is in Israel and has been resident there for 3 out of the 5 years immediately preceding the day of the submission of the application. Other conditions: is entitled to reside in Israel permanently, has settled (or intends to settle) in Israel, has some knowledge of the Hebrew language, has renounced citizenship of another country or proven his/her willingsness to do so upon becoming a citizen, and oath of loyalty. |
| Italy | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Italy for 10 years. Other conditions: no problematic criminal record and sufficient income in the last 3 years. |
| Jamaica | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Jamaica for 12 months immediately prior to the application, as well as for 4 out of 7 years predating the 12-month period. Other conditions: full capacity, good character, intent to reside in Jamaica, and oath of loyalty. Minister is explicitly allowed to waive certain requirements. |
| Japan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is over the age of 20, of full capacity, and has been domiciled in Japan for a continuous period of 5 years. Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship (requirement can be waived if renunciation is impossible, e.g. for refugees), good character, sufficient means of support either in the person’s own property or ability or that of the spouse/relatives, not having advocated the overthrow of the Constitution or the Government of Japan. |
| Kazakhstan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been lawfully and permanently resident for 5 years. Other conditions: security and public policy checks (list of reasons for refusal). |
| Kenya | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been lawfully resident in Kenya for at least 7 years, including 12 months immediately prior to application. Other conditions: adequate knowledge of Kenya and rights and duties of citizens, understand and speak KiSwahili or a local dialect, understand the nature of the application, not convicted and sentenced to term of imprisonment of 3 years or more, capable of making a substantive contribution to Kenya, not adjudged bankrupt, and country of previous citizenship is not at war with Kenya. |
| Kosovo | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person has been resident in Kosovo for 5 consecutive years after receiving permanent residence permit. Other conditions: respect for constitutional and legal order of Kosovo and integration into society, sufficient means of living without resorting to social assistance schemes, fulfillment of all the financial obligations owed to the state, and an elementary knowledge of one of the official languages of Kosovo (Albanian or Serbian) and of its culture and social order. |
| Kuwait | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has lived in Kuwait for a minumum of 20 years. Other conditions: fluent in Arabic, has an income, good character, holds a qualification needed in a country (such as a degree for a profession), and is Muslim. |
| Kyrgyzstan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has had 5 years of continuous and uninterrupted residence in the country. Other conditions: knowledge of the official language (sufficient for communication), commitment to comply with the Constitution and legislation of the country, source of subsistence, and meet security and public policy checks (list of reasons for refusal). |
| Laos | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has had continuous and permanent residence in Laos for 10 years. Other conditions: respect the Constitution and laws of the country, social and cultural integration, written and oral fluency in Lao, good health, not sentenced to imprisonment by any court, protect and develop the country, cause no harm to the national interest, have professions, qualifications and a stable economic status, and renunciation of citizenship of another country. |
| Latvia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been permanently resident in Latvia for 5 years and has reached the age of 15. Other conditions: proficiency in language of Latvia, knowledge of basic principles of the Constitution, national anthem and history of the country (but exceptions under LAT 21), legal income and no due taxes, pledge of loyalty to Latvia, renunciation or automatic loss of citizenship of another country, and no further restrictions (see LAT 11). Exemption from renunciation requirement applies to nationals of a Member State of the EU, the EFTA or NATO, Australia, Brazil or New Zealand, or a country with which Latvia has concluded a dual citizenship agreement. Decision regarding naturalisation is made by the Cabinet of Ministers and cannot be appealed. |
| Lebanon | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | n.a. | n.a. |
| Lesotho | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been lawfully resident in Lesotho for at least 5 years. Other conditions: age at least 21 years, no mental incapacity, adequate knowledge of Sotho or English, good character, financially solvent, renounce other citizenship. If a Commonwealth citizen, the person does not need to show that s/he is financially solvent. |
| Liberia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is Negro or of Negro descent and has been lawfully resident for at least 2 years. Other conditions: good moral character and attached to the principles of the constitution, renounce citizenship of another country, declaration that s/he does not believe in anarchy, two witnesses to attest to moral character. Petition for naturalisation filed with the Circuit Court of the county in which the person resides and decided by the court. |
| Libya | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Libya for 10 years. Other conditions: has an income, of good character, in physical health, under 50 years old and fufills any other condition deemed relevant to the public interest. |
| Liechtenstein | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary);
Naturalisation (entitlement)Naturalisation (discretionary); Naturalisation (entitlement)Naturalisation (discretionary); Naturalisation (entitlement)Naturalisation (discretionary); Naturalisation (entitlement)Naturalisation (discretionary); Naturalisation (entitlement)Naturalisation (discretionary); Naturalisation (entitlement) |
Person has had 10 years of uninterrupted lawful and main residence in Liechtenstein and applies for naturalisation in the municipality by popular ballot. Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, language and integration test;
Person has had 30 years of uninterrupted lawful and main residence in Liechtenstein immediately before application (years spent in the country under the age of 20 count as double). Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, language and integration test. Person has had 10 years of uninterrupted lawful and main residence in Liechtenstein and applies for naturalisation in the municipality by popular ballot. Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, language and integration test; Person has had 30 years of uninterrupted lawful and main residence in Liechtenstein immediately before application (years spent in the country under the age of 20 count as double). Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, language and integration test. Person has had 10 years of uninterrupted lawful and main residence in Liechtenstein and applies for naturalisation in the municipality by popular ballot. Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, language and integration test; Person has had 30 years of uninterrupted lawful and main residence in Liechtenstein immediately before application (years spent in the country under the age of 20 count as double). Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, language and integration test. Person has had 10 years of uninterrupted lawful and main residence in Liechtenstein and applies for naturalisation in the municipality by popular ballot. Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, language and integration test; Person has had 30 years of uninterrupted lawful and main residence in Liechtenstein immediately before application (years spent in the country under the age of 20 count as double). Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, language and integration test. Person has had 10 years of uninterrupted lawful and main residence in Liechtenstein and applies for naturalisation in the municipality by popular ballot. Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, language and integration test; Person has had 30 years of uninterrupted lawful and main residence in Liechtenstein immediately before application (years spent in the country under the age of 20 count as double). Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, language and integration test. Person has had 10 years of uninterrupted lawful and main residence in Liechtenstein and applies for naturalisation in the municipality by popular ballot. Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, language and integration test; Person has had 30 years of uninterrupted lawful and main residence in Liechtenstein immediately before application (years spent in the country under the age of 20 count as double). Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, language and integration test. |
| Lithuania | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has legally resided in Lithuania for the last 10 years and has the right of permanent residence. Other conditions: proficiency in language of Lithuania, legal source of support, knowledge of basic provisions of the Constitution, renunciation or automatic loss of citizenship of another country, no circumstances by reason of which citizenship shall not be granted, e.g. person committed international crimes such as aggression, genocide, crimes against humanity and war crime. |
| Luxembourg | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Luxembourg for 7 years before the application. Other conditions: proof of sufficient active and passive knowledge of at least 1 of 3 national languages in addition to spoken knowledge of the Luxembourg language, follow at least 3 citizenship courses, absence of a criminal record of a certain kind. |
| Macedonia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person has been permanently resident in Macedonia for at least 8 years. Other conditions: housing and permanent source of income, no convictions in Macedonia or another country of which the person is a national for committing a crime that carries a prison sentence of 1 year or more, no criminal procedure initiated in either of those countries, not sentenced to a measure prohibiting residence in Macedonia, no threat to national security or defense, knowledge of language of Macedonia and oath of loyalty, renunciation or automatic loss of citizenship of another country. |
| Madagascar | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually resident for 5 years. Other conditions: sound mind, not a danger to the community because of state of health, good character and not convicted to sentence of more than 1 year in prison nor for crime of dishonesty, assimilated to the community notably through knowledge of Madagascan language. |
| Malawi | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been ordinarily resident for at least 7 years. Other conditions: adequate knowledge of vernacular language or English, good character, financially solvent, would be a suitable citizen, renounce other citizenship. Similar but modified terms (financial solvency not required) apply to Commonwealth citizens and citizens of certain African states (MWI 13-14). |
| Malaysia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary); Registration | Person has been resident in Malaysia for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was resident (holding Malaysian permanent resident status) in the country for 10 out of 12 years prior to the application. Other conditions: good character, adequate knowledge of Malay language, intent to make Malaysia his/her permanent home, and oath of allegiance; Person has reached the age of 18 years, was born in the Federation before Independence (Merdeka Day), has held Malaysian permanent resident status for a period of 7 years, intends to reside permanently, is of good character, and has elementary knowledge of the Malay language. |
| Mali | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually resident for at least 10 years. Other conditions: good character, mental health, integrated into Malian community, not convicted to sentence of more than 1 year imprisonment. |
| Malta | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Malta for at least 5 of the past 7 years preceding the application. Other conditions: adequate knowledge of Maltese or English language, good character and deemed suitable to be a citizen. |
| Mauritania | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has lived in Mauritania for at least 10 years. Other conditions: fluent in one of the official languages, good character and physical health. |
| Mauritius | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has ben resident for at least 5 years during the previous 7 years, including 12 months preceding the application. Other conditions: good character, adequate knowledge of English or any other language current in Mauritius and of the responsibilities of a citizen, renounce other citizenship. Modified conditions apply to Commonwealth citizens (MAU 5). |
| Mexico | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Mexico for 5 years immediately prior to the application. Other conditions: renunciation of citizenship of another country (only after citizenship has been granted), knowledge of Spanish language, knowledge of Mexican history and integration in the national culture (both not applicable to minors and persons older than 60), no prison sentence for a criminal act committed in Mexico or abroad, and oath of loyalty. |
| Moldova | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Moldova for 10 years. Other conditions: knowledge of the official language and the provisions of the Constitution of Moldova (citizenship test), legal sources of income, and automatic loss or renunciation of citizenship of another country (unless this is impossible or cannot reasonably be requested), except in case of international agreement. |
| Mongolia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been permanently resident in Mongolia for 5 years. Other conditions: renunciation of citizenship of another country, sufficient means for self-support, proper knowledge of Mongolian customs and language, not commit any criminal acts during the 5-year period, and acquisition of citizenship may not prejudice the reputation and interests of Mongolia. Mongolian citizenship shall be refused if person (1) committed a crime against humanity, (2) conducted an activity against the national security or vital interests of Mongolia, (3) has been claimed as a member of an international terrorist organisation, (4) has been determined by court to be a dangerous criminal, (5) is serving a sentence, (6) has been deported from the territory of Mongolia, and (7) when the person advertises a religion that inconsistent with the Mongolian national customs and law. |
| Montenegro | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Montenegro for 10 years uninterrupted immediately before the application. Other conditions: renunciation or automatic loss of citizenship of another country, no convictions for committing a crime that carries a prison sentence of 1 year or more, housing and source of income sufficient for material and social welfare, command of language of Montenegro, no threat to the security of the country, fulfilled tax and other legal obligations. |
| Morocco | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in the country for at least 5 years. Other conditions: sufficient knowledge of Arabic, has an income, good character and no disabilities. |
| Mozambique | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually resident in Mozambique for at least 10 years. Other conditions: know Portuguese or a Mozambican language, have full capacity and can ensure own subsistence, and civil probity. |
| Myanmar | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | n.a. | n.a. |
| Namibia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been lawfully and ordinarily resident for at least 10 years. Other conditions: good character, adequate knowledge of responsibilities and privileges of Namibian citizenship, willing to renounce citizenship of another country, not convicted of an offence listed in schedule to act. |
| Nepal | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | n.a. | n.a. |
| Netherlands | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person has been resident in the Netherlands for 5 years immediately before the application and there are no objections against indefinite residence in the country. Other conditions: no threat to public order, public decency or safety, proficiency in Dutch language (certification), knowledge of Dutch society (citizenship test), declaration of solidarity, renunciation or automatic loss of citizenship of another country (with substantial exceptions). |
| New Zealand | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person must be present in New Zealand (or in the Cook Islands, Niue or Tokelau) for a minimum of 1350 days during the 5 years immediately preceding the date of application and for at least 240 days in each of those 5 years. Other conditions: be 16 years or older, full capacity, application in the subscribed manner, good character, suficient knowledge of the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship, sufficient knowledge of English, intends to continue to reside in NZ or to enter into Crown service under the NZ government or serivce under an international organisation of which NZ is a member, or service in the employment of an entity resident or established in NZ. |
| Nicaragua | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Nicaragua for a continuous period of 4 years since being granted a permanent resident permit. Other conditions: renunciation of citizenship of another country. |
| Niger | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually resident for at least 10 years. Other conditions: good character, not sentenced to imprisonment. |
| Nigeria | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has resided in Nigeria for a continuous period of 15 years, or has resided for 1 year prior to application and 15 years over previous 20 years. Other conditions: good character, in opinion of governor of state where to be resident is acceptable to the local community and assimilated into the way of life of people in that part of the Federation, capable of making a useful contribution to the advancement of Nigeria. |
| North Korea | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is a foreigner. No conditions are stipulated. |
| Norway | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is at least 12 years of age, has resided in Norway for a total of 7 years in the last 10 years with a residence or work permit of at least 1 year. Other conditions: renunciation of citizenship of another country. |
| Oman | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Oman for at least 20 years. Other conditions: can read and write Arabic, has an income, good character and of physical health, written consent to renounce citizenship of another country. |
| Pakistan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Pakistan for 12 months immediately prior to the application, as well as during 4 out of 7 years predating the 12-month period. Other conditions: good character, adequate knowledge of one of the vernaculars of Pakistan, intent to reside in Pakistan or to enter or continue in the service of Pakistan, renunciation of citizenship of another country, and oath of allegiance. |
| Panama | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Panama for a continuous period of 5 years (time spent during minority is fully counted). Other conditions: renunciation of citizenship of another country, proficiency in Spanish, basic knowledge of the geography, history and political organization of Panama, and oath of loyalty. Naturalisation can be denied for reasons of morality, safety, health, and physical or mental incapacity. |
| Paraguay | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Paraguay for at least 3 years. Other conditions: work participation, good behaviour, basic knowledge of one of Paraguay’s official languages, the history and geography of the country, and of the constitutional provisions dealing with loss of Paraguayan citizenship. |
| Peru | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Peru for a continuous period of at least 2 years. Other conditions: full capacity, exercise a profession or entrepreneurial activity or have sufficient means of subsistence, clean criminal record, and good behaviour and morals. |
| Philippines | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in the Philippines for a continuous period of 10 years. Other conditions: aged 21 years or older, good moral character, irreproachable conduct, belief in the principles underlying the Constitution, own real estate worth not less than 5,000 Philippine pesos or have a lucrative trade, profession or lawful occupation, written and oral knowledge of English or Spanish or any other principal Philippine language, enrol any minor children in a school where Philippine history, government and civics are taught, renounce any foreign hereditary or nobility titles, and lodge a declaration of intention. Not eligible for naturalisation are persons who are opposed to organised government, defend or teach the use of violence for the success and predominance of their ideas, believe in the practice of polygamy, have been convicted of crimes involving moral turpitude, suffer from mental alienation or incurable contagious diseases, have not mingled socially with Filipinos during their residence in the Philippines, have not shown a desire to learn and embrace Filipino customs, are citizens of nations with whom the USA and the Philippines are at war, or are citizens of a foreign country other than the USA whose laws do not grant Filipinos the right to become naturalised citizens. |
| Poland | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement); Naturalisation (discretionary)Naturalisation (entitlement); Naturalisation (discretionary)Naturalisation (entitlement); Naturalisation (discretionary)Naturalisation (entitlement); Naturalisation (discretionary) |
Person has been resident in Poland for 3 years with a permanent residence permit (or a long term EU residence permit) and has a stable and regular source of income and a ‘legal title to inhabitable premises’. Other conditions: language certification and no threat to the external security or defense of the state or to the public security and order; No specific requirements can be found in the law. Pursuant to POL 21(1), residence in Poland is not required. Person has been resident in Poland for 3 years with a permanent residence permit (or a long term EU residence permit) and has a stable and regular source of income and a ‘legal title to inhabitable premises’. Other conditions: language certification and no threat to the external security or defense of the state or to the public security and order; No specific requirements can be found in the law. Pursuant to POL 21(1), residence in Poland is not required. Person has been resident in Poland for 3 years with a permanent residence permit (or a long term EU residence permit) and has a stable and regular source of income and a ‘legal title to inhabitable premises’. Other conditions: language certification and no threat to the external security or defense of the state or to the public security and order; No specific requirements can be found in the law. Pursuant to POL 21(1), residence in Poland is not required. Person has been resident in Poland for 3 years with a permanent residence permit (or a long term EU residence permit) and has a stable and regular source of income and a ‘legal title to inhabitable premises’. Other conditions: language certification and no threat to the external security or defense of the state or to the public security and order; No specific requirements can be found in the law. Pursuant to POL 21(1), residence in Poland is not required. |
| Portugal | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person has been resident in Portugal for 6 years. Other conditions: sufficient knowledge of Portuguese language, existence of an effective link with the national community, no convictions for committing a crime that carries a prison sentence of 3 years or more. |
| Qatar | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in the country for at least 25 years. Other conditions: proficient in Arabic, has an income, good character and has physical health. |
| Romania | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Romania for 8 years. Other conditions: good behaviour and loyalty to Romania, no threat to national security, sufficient resources to support him/herself, proficiency in Romanian language and knowledge of the country’s culture, history, Constitution and national anthem. |
| Russia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Russia for 5 years uninterrupted, under the permanent residence permit (It may take many years before a foreigner qualifies for the permanent residence permit). Other conditions: observing the laws of Russia, lawful means of subsistence, application filed for renunciation of the foreign citizenship, proficiency in Russian language. Naturalisation can be rejected due to the person’s criminal record and participation in anti-state or terrorist activities. |
| Rwanda | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Rwanda for at least 5 years. Other conditions: owner of sustainable activities in Rwanda, good behaviour and morals, not convicted to imprionment of 6 months or more, respect Rwandan culture and be patriotic, not subject to a non-cancelled expulsion, not characterised by genocide ideology, not a burden on the state or the people. |
| Saint Kitts and Nevis | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in St Kitts for 12 months immediately prior to the application (unless person is a British protected person), as well as for 14 years predating the 12-month period. Other conditions: full capacity, good character, intent to reside in St Kitts, and oath of loyalty. Minister is explicitly allowed to waive certain requirements. |
| Saint Lucia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in St Lucia for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was either resident in St Lucia, or in government service, or had partly such residence and partly such service for 7 years predating the 12-month period. Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship, good character, full capacity, adequate knowledge of English and of the duties of a citizen, intent to reside in St Lucia or to continue government service, and oath of allegiance. Minister is explicitly allowed to waive certain requirements. |
| Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in St Vincent for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was either resident in St Vincent, or in government service for 6 out of 9 years predating the 12-month period. Other conditions: renunciation of another citizenship (at the discretion of the Minister), good character, full capacity, adequate knowledge of English and of the duties of a citizen, intent to reside in St Vincent or to continue government service, and oath of allegiance. Minister is explicitly allowed to waive certain requirements. |
| Sao Tome and Principe | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually resident in STP for at least 5 years. Other conditions: sufficient knowledge of Portuguese or another national language, guarantees of civic and moral integration into STP society, renounce previous citizenship, be able to manage self and secure subsistence. State may oppose if person does not fulfil conditions, is not integrated into STP society, has carried out acts against sovereignty of the state or has committed a crime punishable by a serious penalty under STP law. |
| Saudi Arabia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has had a permanent resident permit (kiqama) inside the Kingdom for 5 years continuously as a minimum. Other conditions: is above legal age, no mental illness, good behavior, no criminal record of more than 6 months imprisonment, legal income. TThe decision is made based on an additional list of requirements by a Committee of the Executive Regulation of the Saudi Citizenship System as featured in the citizenship law. Note that under article 20 of the citizenship law it states that residency period will be reset if the applicant after filing his application left the kingdom for more than 12 months using his existing passport, or if before filing his application they left the kingdom for more than 6 months. |
| Senegal | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually resident in Senegal for at least 10 years. Other conditions: good character, not convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment, good mental and physical health (unless illness contracted in service of the state), not ever expelled. |
| Serbia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been uninterruptedly resident in Serbia for at least 3 years. Other conditions: legal capacity, renunciation or automatic loss of citizenship of another country (unless legally impossible or unreasonable), written statement of loyalty. |
| Seychelles | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | n.a. | n.a. (Note: constitution authorises naturalisation but there is no provision in the act.) |
| Sierra Leone | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Sierra Leone for at least 8 years (if either parent is of negro African descent) or 15 years (if neither parent of negro African descent). Other conditions: knowledge of a language in use in Sierra Leone, good character, would be a good citizen (if negro African) or would make useful and substantial contribution to the advancement, progress and well-being of Sierra Leone (if not negro African). |
| Singapore | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Registration (discretionary); Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Singapore for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was resident in the country for 10 out of 12 years prior to the application. Other conditions: good character, elementary knowledge of English, Malay, Mandarin or Tamil (unless the person has attained the age of 45 or is deaf or dumb), intent to make Singapore his/her permanent home, renunciation of citizenship of another country, and oath of allegiance. Acquisition by registration is not possible if the person has once renounced or been deprived of Singapore citizenship; Person has been resident in Singapore for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was resident in the country for 10 out of 12 years prior to the application. Other conditions: good character, adequate knowledge of the national language, intent to make Singapore his/her permanent home, renunciation of citizenship of another country, and oath of allegiance.Person has been resident in Singapore for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was resident in the country for 10 out of 12 years prior to the application. Other conditions: good character, elementary knowledge of English, Malay, Mandarin or Tamil (unless the person has attained the age of 45 or is deaf or dumb), intent to make Singapore his/her permanent home, renunciation of citizenship of another country, and oath of allegiance. Acquisition by registration is not possible if the person has once renounced or been deprived of Singapore citizenship; Person has been resident in Singapore for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was resident in the country for 10 out of 12 years prior to the application. Other conditions: good character, adequate knowledge of the national language, intent to make Singapore his/her permanent home, renunciation of citizenship of another country, and oath of allegiance.Person has been resident in Singapore for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was resident in the country for 10 out of 12 years prior to the application. Other conditions: good character, elementary knowledge of English, Malay, Mandarin or Tamil (unless the person has attained the age of 45 or is deaf or dumb), intent to make Singapore his/her permanent home, renunciation of citizenship of another country, and oath of allegiance. Acquisition by registration is not possible if the person has once renounced or been deprived of Singapore citizenship; Person has been resident in Singapore for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was resident in the country for 10 out of 12 years prior to the application. Other conditions: good character, adequate knowledge of the national language, intent to make Singapore his/her permanent home, renunciation of citizenship of another country, and oath of allegiance. |
| Slovakia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Slovakia for 8 consecutive years immediately prior to the application or 10 years with a permanent residence permit. Other conditions (not exhaustive): good character, no criminal procedure initiated against the person, reasonable knowledge of language and culture of Slovakia, fulfilled tax and other legal obligations. |
| Slovenia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Slovenia for 10 years, of which 5 were continuous, and with a ‘settled status’ immediately before the application. Other conditions: evidence of renunciation of citizenship of another country (unless the person is stateless or when renunciation is legally impossible or unreasonable), means of subsistence and settled tax obligations, no criminal record, does not pose a threat to public order, security or national defence, knowledge of Slovenian language and oath to respect the free democratic constitutional order of Slovenia. |
| Somalia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Somalia for at least 7 years. Other conditions: good civil and moral conduct, and renounce other citizenship. |
| South Africa | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is a permanent resident and has been ordinarily and legally resident for at least 5 years. Other conditions: good character, can communicate in one of the official languages, adequate knowledge of responsibilities and privileges of citizenship, is a citizen of a country that allows dual citizenship or renounces other citizenship. |
| South Korea | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been domiciled in South Korea for a continuous period of 5 years. Other conditions: good character, sufficient means of support either in the person’s own property or ability or that of his/her family, basic knowledge of Korean language and customs, and renunciation of citizenship of a foreign country (unless unreasonable to request). |
| South Sudan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident for at least 10 years. Other conditions: sound mind, not convicted of any offence related to honesty and moral turpitude or other serious offence. |
| Spain | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person has been resident in Spain for 10 years immediately prior to the application. Other conditions: good conduct, adequate social integration (by means of language and civic tests), oath of loyalty to the King and obedience to the constitution and the laws, renunciation of another citizenship (except for citizens of Latin American countries, Andorra, Philippines, Equatorial Guinea or Portugal) and inscription in the Civil Registry. Denial of citizenship must be based on reasons of public order and national interest. |
| Sri Lanka | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | n.a. | n.a. |
| Sudan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been lawfully and continuously resident in Sudan for 10 years or more. Other conditions: complete capacity, good morals and not convicted of a crime against honour or honesty, sound mind, lawful way of earning a living. |
| Suriname | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Suriname for 5 years immediately preceding the application. |
| Swaziland | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is ordinarily resident for at least 12 months prior to aplication and 5 years during the previous 7 years. Other conditions: good character, knowledge of SiSwati or English, adequate means of support, has contributed to development of the country. Or person is ordinarily resident for at least 10 years and application is supported by a chief after consultation with chilef’s council or by 3 reputable citizens. |
| Sweden | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Sweden for 5 years with a permanent residence permit. Other conditions: proof of identity and has led and can be expected to lead a respectable life. |
| Switzerland | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has resided in Switzerland for 12 years (3 of these must have been in the 5 years preceding the application). Other conditions: absence of a criminal record, integration into the Swiss way of life and familiar with Swiss customs and traditions, and good character on cantonal level. Various cantons also require an oath of allegiance at the citizenship ceremony. |
| Syria | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Syria for at least 5 years. Other conditions: can read and write Arabic, has an income, good character, is in physical health and holds qualifications that may benefit the country. |
| Taiwan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person is domiciled in Taiwan and has been resident for 5 continuous years of which at least 183 days annually. Other conditions: aged 20 years or older and of full capacity, good conduct, clean criminal record, basic knowledge of the country’s language and of the rights and duties of a citizen, sufficient property or skills for self-support, and renunciation of citizenship of another country (unless it is proven that this is impossible for causes not attributable to the person). |
| Tajikistan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has had permanent and continuous residence for 5 years. Other conditions: knowledge of the language (level of communication) and not being under criminal prosecution. |
| Tanzania | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident for 12 months prior to the application and at least 7 years during previous 10 years. Other conditions: renounce other citizenship, adequate knowledge of Swahili or English, good character, and that given his/her past and potential contribution to the national economy, scientific and technological advancement and the national social and cultural welfare of the country s/he would be a good citizen of Tanzania. |
| Thailand | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been domiciled in Thailand for 5 years immediately prior to the application. Other conditions: full capacity, good behaviour, regular occupation, knowledge of the Thai language as prescribed in the Regulations. |
| Togo | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually resident for at least 5 years. Other conditions: over 21 years old, Togo is the centre of principal interests, good character, not sentenced to imprisonment for more than 2 years, good mental and physical health, renounce other citizenship, assimilated to Togolese community especially by knowledge of a Togolese language. |
| Trinidad and Tobago | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in T&T for 12 months immediately prior to the application, and was either resident in T&T, or in government service, or had partly such residence and partly such service for 5 out of 7 years prior to the 12-month period. Other conditions: good character, full capacity, adequate knowledge of English and of the duties of a citizen, and oath of allegiance. Minister is explicitly allowed to waive certain requirements. |
| Turkey | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Turkey for 5 years with intent to settle. Other conditions: good morals, not have a health condition that is dangerous to the person’s surrounding, sufficient knowledge of the Turkish language, income requirement, not pose a threat to national security and public order. |
| Turkmenistan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been habitually resident for 5 years. Other conditions: knowledge of the official language (communication level), assumes the responsibility to abide by and respect the Constitution and laws of the country, legal sources of subsistence, and meet security and public policy checks (list of reasons for refusal). |
| Uganda | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement); Naturalisation (entitlement); Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has legally and voluntarily migrated to Uganda and has been living there for at least 10 years. Other conditions: adequate knowledge of prescribed vernacular language or English, good character, renunciation of another acquired citizenship; Person had been living in Uganda for at least 20 years prior to commencement of constitution; Person has been resident for at least 20 years including 2 years prior to application. Other conditions: adequate knowledge of prescribed vernacular language or English, good character, renunciation of other citizenship. |
| Ukraine | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Ukraine for 5 years uninterrupted. Other conditions: permit to immigrate, renunciation of citizenship of another country, respect for the laws of Ukraine, language proficiency, legal means of subsistence, no convictions for grave crimes. |
| United Arab Emirates | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in the UAE for at least 30 years. Other conditions: proficient in Arabic, has an income and good character. |
| United Kingdom | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in the UK for 5 years. Other conditions: good character, sufficient knowledge of one of the languages of the country, sufficient knowledge about life in the UK, intention to have principal home in the country and to continue residence in or service for the UK, oath of allegiance at citizenship ceremony. EEA national is required to have evidence of their right to permanent residence in order to apply for naturalisation. |
| United States of America | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in the United States for a continuous period of 5 years. Other conditions: knowledge of fundamentals of the English language and the history and form of government of the United States, good morals, attachment to principles of the Constitution, well disposed to the good order and happiness of the United States, and oath of loyalty. |
| Uruguay | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (entitlement) | Person has had 3 years of habitual residence in Uruguay. Other conditions: good behaviour, have family in Uruguay (if not, 5 years’ residence is required), and work participation or capital/property in Uruguay. |
| Uzbekistan | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been permanently resident for 5 years in the country. Other conditions: renunciation of other citizenship, lawful sources of subsistence, recognition and observance of the Constitution, not a member of parties and other organisations whose activity is incompatible with the constitutional principles of the country, not been convicted and not serving a prison sentence. |
| Venezuela | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been continuously resident in Venezuela for at least 10 years immediately prior to the application. ‘Favourable’ conditions for obtaining naturalisation are: ownership of real estate in Venezuela or ownership of or partnership in a Venezuelan enterprise, parental authority over Venezuelan children, marriage to a Venezuelan citizen, and holding a degree from a Venezuelan university. |
| Vietnam | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in Vietnam for 5 years. Other conditions: full capacity, sufficient knowledge of the Vietnamese language to allow for integration into society, obey the Constitution and laws and respect the traditions, customs and practices of Vietnam, be capable of making a livelihood in the country, and renunciation of citizenship of another country, and having a Vietnamese name. Person’s naturalisation is not permitted if this is detrimental to Vietnam’s national interests. |
| Yemen | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been resident in the country for at least 10 years. Other conditions: proficient in Arabic, has good character, an income, and is either Arab or Muslim. |
| Zambia | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person was born outside Zambia, has or had an ancestor who is, or was, a citizen and has been ordinarily resident in Zambia for a period of at least 5 years or has been ordinarily resident in Zambia for a continuous period of at least 10 years. Other conditions: application may be rejected if information is false or concealed, person has not been convicted of an offence and sentenced to imprisonment, nor is an adjudged bankrupt, nor declared a prohibited immigrant nor would approval be contrary to public interest. |
| Zimbabwe | Person with a certain period of residence in a country | Naturalisation (discretionary) | Person has been continuously and lawfully resident in Zimbabwe for at least 10 years. Other conditions: good character, fit and proper person, renounce other citizenship. |
Country codes
CY – Cyprus
MT – Malta
AG – Antigua and Barbuda
KN – St Kitts and Nevis
MD – Moldova
ME – Montenegro
LC – St Lucia
GD – Grenada
DM – Dominica
TK – Turkey
VU – Vanuatu
Source: GLOBALCIT (2017). Global Database on Modes of Acquisition of Citizenship, version 1.0. San Domenico di Fiesole: Global Citizenship Observatory / Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies / European University Institute. Available at: http://globalcit.eu/acquisition-citizenship/
