Get Your Gabon Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Citizenship is granted to individuals born in Gabon to Gabonese parents.
- By Descent: Individuals born abroad to Gabonese parents may acquire citizenship by descent through registration with authorities.
- By Marriage: Foreign spouses of Gabonese citizens may apply for citizenship after 5 years of marriage and residence in Gabon.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals can apply for citizenship after 10 years of legal residence, knowledge of French or a local language, and proof of integration.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Generally Not Allowed: Gabon does not formally recognize dual citizenship, though exceptions may be granted by presidential decree under special circumstances.
Step-by-Step Process
- Determine your path: descent, marriage, or naturalization through residency.
- Submit your application to the Ministry of Interior or a Gabonese embassy.
- Provide required documents and complete any necessary interviews or background checks.
- Renounce other citizenships (if required) and receive your citizenship certificate upon approval.
Benefits of Gabonese Citizenship
- Right to live and work in Gabon without a visa
- Access to local healthcare, education, and land ownership
- Full civic rights, including the right to vote and hold office
Frequently asked questions.
Does Gabon allow dual citizenship?
Generally no. Gabonese law does not recognize dual citizenship, and naturalization typically requires renouncing your original nationality. However, rare exceptions can be granted by presidential decree.
Can I get Gabonese citizenship through my parents?
Yes. If at least one of your parents is Gabonese, you may acquire citizenship by descent, even if you were born abroad — especially if registered properly with the government.
Can I gain citizenship through marriage?
Yes. A foreign spouse may apply after 5 years of marriage and residence in Gabon. Additional conditions such as integration and language may apply.
What are the residency requirements for naturalization?
You must legally reside in Gabon for at least 10 years, speak French or a local language, and demonstrate good conduct and integration into society.
Will I have to renounce my original citizenship?
Yes, in most cases. Gabon requires naturalization applicants to give up other citizenships unless an official exception is granted.
Do I have to pay taxes in Gabon if I become a citizen?
Gabonese citizens pay taxes on income earned in Gabon. If you live abroad, only Gabon-sourced income is typically taxed unless you retain tax residence in Gabon.