Get Your Sierra Leone Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Citizenship is automatically granted to individuals born in Sierra Leone to at least one Sierra Leonean parent.
- By Descent: Individuals born abroad to a Sierra Leonean parent are eligible for citizenship by descent.
- By Marriage: Foreigners married to Sierra Leonean citizens may apply for naturalization after a period of lawful residence.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals may apply after 8 years of continuous legal residence, with proof of good conduct and integration.
- By Ancestry (Heritage Citizenship Program): Persons of African descent from the diaspora can apply for citizenship if they can prove ancestral roots in Sierra Leone.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Allowed: Sierra Leone permits dual citizenship. Citizens may hold Sierra Leonean nationality alongside another.
Note: The 2006 Citizenship Amendment Act reintroduced the right to dual citizenship and allowed for heritage-based applications from the African diaspora.
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm your eligibility (descent, marriage, naturalization, or heritage).
- Apply through the Immigration Department or a Sierra Leonean embassy.
- Submit required documents and undergo background checks or interviews.
- Take the oath of allegiance upon approval and receive your citizenship certificate.
Benefits of Sierra Leonean Citizenship
- Live and work freely in Sierra Leone
- Participate in elections and civic life
- Own property and access land rights
- Hold dual citizenship and maintain ties to your country of origin
Frequently asked questions.
Does Sierra Leone allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Sierra Leone allows dual citizenship under its Citizenship Act. You do not have to renounce your previous nationality.
Can I apply for citizenship through ancestry?
Yes. Sierra Leone offers a special pathway for members of the African diaspora who can prove ancestral ties to the country.
Can I get Sierra Leonean citizenship through a parent?
Yes. If one of your parents is a Sierra Leonean citizen, you can apply for citizenship by descent.
Can I become a citizen through marriage?
Yes. Foreign spouses of Sierra Leoneans may apply for naturalization after fulfilling residence and documentation requirements.
How long must I live in Sierra Leone to naturalize?
8 years of continuous legal residence is required, along with a clean criminal record and knowledge of local customs.
Do I have to pay taxes in Sierra Leone as a citizen?
Citizens residing in Sierra Leone are subject to tax on global income. Citizens abroad are generally taxed only on income sourced within Sierra Leone.