Get Your Pakistan Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
Let us make the application process easier. With our network of experts, easy-to-use tools and helpful progress trackers, we're your complete resource for acquiring dual citizenship.
Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Individuals born in Pakistan are citizens by birth, regardless of their parents’ nationality, if born before 18 April 2000. After that date, at least one parent must be a Pakistani citizen or permanent resident.
- By Descent: Children born abroad to a Pakistani father or mother are eligible for citizenship by descent.
- By Marriage: Foreign women married to Pakistani men may apply for citizenship through registration. Foreign men married to Pakistani women must apply through naturalization.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals can apply after 5 years of legal residence in Pakistan, subject to background checks and loyalty declarations.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Allowed (with Certain Countries): Pakistan allows dual citizenship with select countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Sweden, France, Belgium, and others. Dual citizenship is not allowed with most other nations.
Note: Dual citizens may be restricted from holding certain public offices or joining the military in Pakistan.
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm eligibility through descent, marriage, or naturalization.
- Apply through NADRA (National Database & Registration Authority) or a Pakistani consulate abroad.
- Provide required documentation and undergo identity verification.
- Await approval from the Ministry of Interior and receive your citizenship certificate.
Benefits of Pakistani Citizenship
- Right to live, work, and own property in Pakistan
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to select countries
- Ability to hold Pakistani and foreign citizenship (if eligible)
- Pass citizenship to children automatically
Frequently asked questions.
Does Pakistan allow dual citizenship?
Yes, but only with specific countries. Pakistan currently permits dual citizenship with countries such as the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and others. With most other countries, you must renounce your non-Pakistani nationality.
Can I apply if one of my parents is Pakistani?
Yes. If either of your parents is a Pakistani citizen, you are eligible for citizenship by descent, even if born abroad.
Can I get citizenship through marriage?
Yes. Foreign women married to Pakistani men may apply for citizenship through registration. Foreign men married to Pakistani women must apply through naturalization.
Do dual citizens have full rights in Pakistan?
Mostly yes, but dual citizens may be restricted from holding high public office, military positions, or national security roles.
Do I have to pay taxes in Pakistan as a dual citizen?
Pakistan taxes residents on their worldwide income. If you live abroad, you’re generally only taxed on income earned in Pakistan, unless you maintain tax residency there.