Get Your Namibia Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: You are a Namibian citizen if born in Namibia to at least one Namibian citizen or permanent resident parent, provided the parent’s residence is lawful.
- By Descent: Children born abroad to Namibian citizens may acquire citizenship by descent, provided the birth is registered with the Namibian authorities.
- By Marriage: Foreign spouses may apply for citizenship after 10 years of lawful residence in Namibia and proof of a valid marriage.
- By Naturalization: Foreigners may apply after 10 years of continuous legal residence and good character.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Not Allowed (Except by Birth): Namibia does not allow dual citizenship unless both nationalities were acquired at birth. Naturalized citizens must renounce any other nationality.
Note: Namibia makes a strict distinction between citizens by birth and by naturalization. Only those who acquired both nationalities at birth may retain dual citizenship.
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm your path to citizenship (birth, descent, marriage, or naturalization).
- Submit your application to the Ministry of Home Affairs or a Namibian embassy.
- Provide required documentation and complete background checks.
- Renounce your previous citizenship (if not born with both nationalities).
Benefits of Namibian Citizenship
- Live, work, and own land in Namibia
- Participate in elections and public service
- Pass citizenship to children
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to several Southern African and Commonwealth countries
Frequently asked questions.
Does Namibia allow dual citizenship?
Only in limited cases. Dual citizenship is allowed only if both nationalities were acquired at birth. Naturalized citizens must renounce all other citizenships.
Can I apply through my Namibian parent?
Yes. If your parent is a Namibian citizen, you may apply for citizenship by descent, provided you register with Namibian authorities.
Can a foreign spouse become a Namibian citizen?
Yes. After 10 years of residence and a valid marriage, a foreign spouse can apply for Namibian citizenship.
Do I have to give up my other nationality?
If you’re applying by naturalization or marriage, yes — unless both citizenships were acquired at birth, you must renounce the other nationality.
Do I have to pay taxes in Namibia if I become a citizen?
Namibia taxes residents on their worldwide income. If you live in Namibia, you may be subject to personal income tax.