Get Your Rwanda Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
Let us make your citizenship journey simpler. With step-by-step guides and our AI assistant to help you understand eligibility, we give you clarity, confidence, and support every step of the way.
Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Individuals born in Rwanda to at least one Rwandan parent are citizens by birth.
- By Descent: Children born abroad to a Rwandan citizen are eligible for citizenship by descent.
- By Marriage: A foreigner married to a Rwandan citizen may apply for citizenship after 3 years of marriage and cohabitation.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals may apply after 5 years of legal residence, with proof of integration and a clean criminal record.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Allowed: Rwanda allows dual citizenship. Applicants do not have to renounce their original nationality when becoming Rwandan.
Note: Children adopted by Rwandan citizens also acquire Rwandan citizenship under the law.
Step-by-Step Process
- Determine your path (descent, marriage, or naturalization).
- Submit your application to the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration or a Rwandan embassy.
- Provide required documents and attend interviews if requested.
- Receive approval and take the oath of allegiance if applicable.
Benefits of Rwandan Citizenship
- Live, work, and own property in Rwanda
- Hold dual citizenship without giving up your current nationality
- Access to healthcare, education, and government services
- Pass citizenship to your children automatically
Rwanda
Rwanda is a small, landlocked East African nation known as the 'Land of a Thousand Hills' for its breathtaking landscape of green volcanic mountains, terraced hillsides, and crater lakes that make it one of the most visually stunning countries on the continent. It is one of the world's best destinations for mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, where families of endangered mountain gorillas can be observed at close range in misty highland forest. Rwandan culture is built on the concept of ubuntu — communal identity and mutual care — expressed through the weekly community service tradition of Umuganda, vibrant imigongo geometric art, and a cuisine of beans, plantain, and isombe made from cassava leaves.
- Capital: Kigali
- Languages: Kinyarwanda, French, English
- Currency: Rwandan Franc (RWF)
Frequently asked questions.
Does Rwanda allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Rwanda allows dual citizenship. You may retain your original nationality when becoming a Rwandan citizen.
Can I get Rwandan citizenship through a parent?
Yes. If at least one of your parents is Rwandan, you are eligible for citizenship by descent, even if born outside the country.
Can I become a citizen through marriage?
Yes. After three years of marriage and cohabitation with a Rwandan citizen, you may apply for naturalization.
How long do I need to live in Rwanda to naturalize?
You must reside in Rwanda legally for at least 5 years before applying for citizenship through naturalization.
Do I have to pay taxes in Rwanda as a citizen?
Rwandan tax residents are taxed on their worldwide income. If you live abroad, you’re generally taxed only on income earned in Rwanda.