Get Your Somalia Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Descent: A child born to a Somali father (or Somali mother if father is stateless) automatically acquires Somali citizenship, even if born abroad.
- By Marriage: A foreign woman married to a Somali citizen automatically acquires Somali nationality upon marriage.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals may apply after 7 years of legal residence, good moral character, and renouncing any foreign citizenship under existing law.
- Dual Citizenship Legal Status: The 1962 Citizenship Law prohibits dual nationality, but the 2012 Provisional Constitution permits it — creating a legal gray area where dual citizenship is functionally allowed.
Step-by-Step Process
- Identify your eligibility path: descent, marriage, or naturalization.
- Submit your application to the Somali Ministry of Interior or relevant civil registry.
- Provide supporting documents: birth certificates, marriage license, proof of residence or good conduct.
- Sign a declaration of allegiance, and if required, declare or formally renounce any foreign citizenship.
- Receive your citizenship certificate and apply for a Somali passport.
Benefits of Somali Citizenship
- Live, work, and own property legally in Somalia
- Access to public services such as education and healthcare
- Right to vote and participate in civic affairs
- Pass citizenship to your children
- Possibility to hold dual citizenship under the Constitutional allowance
Frequently asked questions.
Does Somalia allow dual citizenship?
The 1962 Citizenship Law forbids dual nationality, requiring renunciation of other citizenships. However, the 2012 Provisional Constitution allows Somali citizens to hold other nationalities — creating a legal grey zone where dual citizenship is effectively tolerated.
Can I get Somali citizenship through my father or mother?
Yes. If your father is Somali, you automatically acquire citizenship at birth. If only your mother is Somali and the father is stateless, you also qualify.
Does marriage grant automatic Somali citizenship?
Yes. Under the 1962 law, a foreign woman married to a Somali man automatically acquires Somali nationality.
Can I become a Somali citizen by living there?
Yes. Foreigners may naturalize after 7 years of legal residence, good conduct, and willingness to renounce other citizenships under the current statute.
Will I owe taxes in both countries?
Somalia taxes residents on income sourced within the country. If you hold another citizenship or live abroad, your second country may also tax you — consult tax laws and treaties of both jurisdictions.