Get Your Malawi Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Individuals born in Malawi to at least one Malawian citizen parent are granted citizenship by birth.
- By Descent: Individuals born outside Malawi to a Malawian parent are eligible for citizenship by descent through registration.
- By Marriage: A foreign spouse of a Malawian citizen may apply for citizenship after 5 years of legal residence and a valid, subsisting marriage.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals may apply after 7 years of lawful residence, with proof of good character, language proficiency, and integration.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Allowed (Since 2019): Following a 2019 amendment to the Citizenship Act, Malawi allows dual citizenship for citizens by birth, descent, and naturalization.
Note: Malawians who lost citizenship by acquiring another nationality can now apply to restore it without renouncing the second nationality.
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm your eligibility through descent, marriage, or residency.
- Apply at the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services or a Malawian embassy abroad.
- Submit required documents and complete the necessary interviews or oath.
- Receive your citizenship certificate and National ID.
Benefits of Malawian Citizenship
- Live and work in Malawi without restriction
- Own land and access public services
- Reclaim citizenship if previously lost through emigration
- Pass citizenship to your children
Frequently asked questions.
Does Malawi allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Since 2019, Malawi allows dual citizenship for all citizens, including those who acquire a second nationality or wish to restore Malawian citizenship.
Can I reclaim Malawian citizenship if I lost it by becoming a citizen of another country?
Yes. Under the 2019 reforms, you can apply to reacquire Malawian citizenship without renouncing your second nationality.
Do I need to speak a local language to naturalize in Malawi?
Yes. Applicants for naturalization must demonstrate proficiency in English or a local Malawian language as part of the integration process.
Do I have to pay taxes in Malawi if I become a citizen?
Malawi only taxes income earned within its borders. Citizens living abroad and earning foreign income are generally not subject to Malawian income tax.
Can a foreign spouse apply for citizenship?
Yes. A foreign spouse of a Malawian citizen can apply for citizenship after 5 years of residence and a valid, ongoing marriage.