Get Your Afghanistan Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Individuals born in Afghanistan to at least one Afghan citizen parent are citizens by birth.
- By Descent : Those born abroad to an Afghan father (or, under some interpretations, an Afghan mother) may acquire Afghan citizenship by descent.
- By Marriage : A foreign woman married to an Afghan man may apply for citizenship. The reverse (foreign man married to an Afghan woman) is not clearly protected in law.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals may apply for Afghan citizenship after 5 years of legal residence and proof of integration, subject to approval by the Ministry of Interior.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Not Recognized: Afghanistan does not officially allow dual citizenship. However, in practice, many Afghan emigrants retain their Afghan nationality alongside a second citizenship, particularly under previous governments. Legal status may be at risk depending on enforcement or regime changes.
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm eligibility through descent, marriage, or naturalization.
- Submit application to the Afghan Ministry of Interior or local consulate (if available).
- Provide required documents: birth certificates, family IDs, marriage documents, and proof of residency or Afghan origin.
- Pass background and security checks; some applicants may be required to renounce foreign citizenship if naturalizing.
- Receive citizenship certificate or updated tazkira (national ID) and passport, where applicable.
Benefits of Afghan Citizenship
- Right to reside, own property, and participate in civil matters in Afghanistan
- Ability to pass on Afghan nationality to children (especially through male line)
- Access to consular services (depending on political and diplomatic context)
Frequently asked questions.
Does Afghanistan allow dual citizenship?
Not officially. The Afghan Constitution and laws do not recognize dual citizenship. However, many Afghan emigrants retain Afghan citizenship alongside another nationality, especially from past governments. Enforcement varies and may change depending on political control.
Can I get Afghan citizenship through my parents?
Yes. If your father (or in some cases, your mother) is Afghan, you may qualify for Afghan citizenship by descent. Documentation and registration are typically required.
Can I become Afghan through marriage?
A foreign woman who marries an Afghan man may apply for citizenship. The reverse is not clearly guaranteed under Afghan law.
What is the naturalization path?
Foreign nationals may apply after 5 years of legal residence, demonstrating integration and good character. Approval is discretionary and may require renunciation of previous citizenship.
Do I have to pay taxes in Afghanistan as a dual citizen?
Afghanistan has limited tax enforcement, especially for citizens living abroad. However, tax obligations may apply if you reside and earn income in Afghanistan.
Is same-sex marriage recognized for citizenship?
No. Same-sex marriage is not legal in Afghanistan and is not recognized for any immigration or citizenship purposes.