Get Your Ethiopia Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: You are an Ethiopian citizen if born in Ethiopia to Ethiopian parents, or born abroad to at least one Ethiopian parent.
- By Descent: Children born abroad to Ethiopian citizens can acquire citizenship if registered with Ethiopian authorities.
- By Marriage: Foreign spouses of Ethiopian citizens may apply for naturalization after fulfilling residency and integration requirements.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals can apply after 4 years of legal residence, basic Amharic proficiency, and knowledge of Ethiopian culture and law.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Not Allowed: Ethiopia does not permit dual citizenship. However, former citizens and descendants may apply for the Ethiopian Origin ID Card (Yellow Card), granting residence, investment, and work rights in Ethiopia without full citizenship.
Step-by-Step Process
- Determine your eligibility path (descent, marriage, naturalization, or Ethiopian Origin ID).
- Submit application to the Ethiopian Immigration and Nationality Affairs Office or embassy.
- Provide required documentation, background checks, and language proof (if applicable).
- Renounce previous nationality (if applying for full citizenship).
- Take an oath of allegiance and receive citizenship certificate or Yellow Card.
Benefits of Ethiopian Citizenship
- Right to vote, own land, and access government services
- Work and live freely in Ethiopia
- Special residency status available for diaspora through the Yellow Card
Frequently asked questions.
Does Ethiopia allow dual citizenship?
No. Ethiopia does not permit dual citizenship. Applicants for naturalization must renounce any other nationalities before receiving Ethiopian citizenship.
What is the Yellow Card for Ethiopian origin?
The Yellow Card is a special ID that gives foreign nationals of Ethiopian descent the right to live, work, and invest in Ethiopia — without full citizenship. It is a common choice for Ethiopians who have naturalized abroad.
Can I claim citizenship through my Ethiopian parents?
Yes. Children born abroad to Ethiopian citizens are eligible for citizenship by descent if properly registered at an embassy or with Ethiopian authorities.
Can I become a citizen through marriage?
Yes, but you must also meet residency and cultural integration requirements. Marriage alone does not automatically grant citizenship.
How long must I live in Ethiopia to naturalize?
You must legally reside in Ethiopia for at least 4 years, show knowledge of Ethiopian law and Amharic language, and renounce any other citizenships.
Do I have to pay taxes in Ethiopia as a citizen?
If you live or earn income in Ethiopia, you’re subject to Ethiopian taxes. Diaspora Yellow Card holders are taxed only on income sourced in Ethiopia.