Get Your Saudi Arabia Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Children born in Saudi Arabia to a Saudi father, or to a Saudi mother and unknown or stateless father, may receive citizenship automatically.
- By Descent: Children born abroad to a Saudi father (or a Saudi mother under certain conditions) are eligible for citizenship.
- By Marriage: A foreign woman married to a Saudi man may apply for citizenship after 5 years of marriage and residing in Saudi Arabia. Foreign men married to Saudi women are not eligible.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals may apply for Saudi citizenship after 10 years of legal residence, fluency in Arabic, and proof of good conduct and employment. Approval is at the discretion of the Ministry of Interior.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Not Allowed: Saudi Arabia generally does not allow dual citizenship. Citizens must obtain royal approval to retain Saudi nationality after acquiring another.
Note: The Saudi nationality law is conservative and prioritizes loyalty to the Kingdom. Naturalization is limited and selective.
Step-by-Step Process
- Determine your path to eligibility (descent, marriage, or naturalization).
- Submit your application to the Ministry of Interior.
- Provide background documents, including Arabic language proficiency, residence permit, and criminal clearance.
- Application is reviewed and approved only by royal decree or ministerial discretion.
Benefits of Saudi Citizenship
- Right to reside and work without restrictions in the Kingdom
- Access to public education, healthcare, and subsidized housing
- Ability to own property and start a business in regulated sectors
- Travel privileges with a Saudi passport
Frequently asked questions.
Does Saudi Arabia allow dual citizenship?
No. Saudi Arabia generally prohibits dual citizenship. Acquiring another nationality without prior approval can result in loss of Saudi citizenship unless a royal decree permits retention.
Can I get citizenship through a Saudi parent?
Yes. Children of Saudi fathers are automatically eligible. Children of Saudi mothers may be eligible in special cases, such as if the father is stateless or unknown.
Can I apply for citizenship through marriage?
Only women married to Saudi men may apply after 5 years of marriage and residency. Foreign men married to Saudi women are not eligible under current law.
How long must I live in Saudi Arabia to apply for naturalization?
You must reside legally in the country for 10 years, demonstrate fluency in Arabic, and meet employment and conduct requirements.
Do I have to pay taxes in Saudi Arabia as a citizen?
Saudi Arabia does not impose personal income tax on individuals. However, citizens may be subject to zakat and indirect taxes such as VAT.