Get Your Togo Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Descent: A child born to at least one Togolese parent—father or mother (if the father is unknown/stateless)—acquires Togolese citizenship at birth, even if born abroad.
- By Marriage: Foreign spouses (notably women married to Togolese men) may register for citizenship after marriage; requirements are discretionary.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals may apply after 5 years of legal residence, clean criminal record, and demonstrated integration.
- Dual Citizenship Allowed: Togo recognizes dual nationality. Citizens do not need to renounce their other citizenship—those with multiple nationalities by birth can keep all, and spouses can often retain theirs when marrying Togolese nationals. However, naturalized citizens are typically required to renounce their previous nationality
Step-by-Step Process
- Select your path: descent, marriage, or naturalization.
- Apply through the Togolese Ministry of Territorial Administration & Security or via a Togolese consulate.
- Submit documents: birth certificate or marriage certificate, proof of residence (5 years for naturalization), and good character evidence.
- Undergo background checks and attend an interview if required.
- For naturalization, renounce your previous nationality formally. For other paths, dual citizenship is retained.
- Receive your Togolese citizenship certificate and apply for a passport.
Benefits of Togolese Citizenship
- Right to live, work, vote, and own property in Togo
- Pass citizenship to children born abroad
- Retain multiple nationalities if acquired by birth or marriage
- Access to public services, education, and healthcare
Frequently asked questions.
Does Togo allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Togo recognizes dual nationality. Citizens who have multiple nationalities by birth or marriage generally keep them, though naturalized citizens usually must renounce their previous citizenship.
Can I get Togolese citizenship through my parents?
Yes. If at least one parent is Togolese (especially the father or mother with an unknown/stateless father), you may automatically qualify by descent, even if born abroad.
Can I apply through marriage?
Yes. Foreign spouses of Togolese nationals can apply; while citizenship is discretionary, existing other nationalities may often be retained.
Can I naturalize as a foreigner?
Yes. After 5 years of legal residence, a clean record, and demonstrated integration, you can apply for naturalization—but you’ll typically need to renounce your previous nationality.
Will I owe taxes in both countries?
Togo taxes residents on local-source income. If you hold another citizenship and reside abroad or earn income overseas, your other country may also tax you. Consult a tax advisor regarding potential double taxation.