Get Your Marshall Islands Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Citizenship is automatically granted to anyone born in the Marshall Islands to at least one Marshallese citizen parent.
- By Descent: Children born abroad to a Marshallese citizen may claim citizenship by descent if properly registered.
- By Marriage : Foreign spouses of Marshallese citizens may apply for naturalization after meeting residency and legal criteria.
- By Naturalization: Foreigners may apply after 5 years of legal residence, proof of good character, and renunciation of previous nationality.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Not Allowed: The Marshallese Constitution prohibits dual citizenship. All applicants for naturalization must renounce previous nationalities, and Marshallese citizens acquiring another nationality may lose their citizenship.
Note: The Marshall Islands has a Compact of Free Association (COFA) with the United States, allowing Marshallese citizens to live and work freely in the U.S. without a visa.
Step-by-Step Process
- Determine eligibility by birth, descent, marriage, or residence.
- Apply through the Office of the Attorney General or Immigration Division.
- Provide necessary documentation and demonstrate residency and character requirements.
- Renounce any foreign citizenship before taking the oath of allegiance.
Benefits of Marshallese Citizenship
- Live, work, and own property in the Marshall Islands
- Travel visa-free to the U.S. under COFA agreement
- Pass citizenship to your children
- Access public services and education
Frequently asked questions.
Does the Marshall Islands allow dual citizenship?
No. The Constitution prohibits dual citizenship. Citizens who voluntarily acquire another nationality may lose their Marshallese citizenship.
Can I become a citizen through marriage?
Yes. Foreign spouses of Marshallese citizens may apply for naturalization, provided they meet residence and legal requirements. However, they must renounce their previous nationality.
Can Marshallese citizens live in the U.S.?
Yes. Under the COFA agreement, Marshallese citizens can live, work, and study in the United States without a visa, though they are not considered U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
What are the language or cultural requirements for naturalization?
There is no formal language or cultural test, but applicants must demonstrate good character, integration, and intent to reside in the country.
Do I have to pay taxes in the Marshall Islands?
Citizens are taxed on income earned in the country. There is no personal income tax for individuals, but business and import duties may apply.