Get Your Brunei Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Descent: Citizenship is granted to children born to a Bruneian father. If only the mother is a citizen, the child may apply but is not automatically granted citizenship.
- By Naturalization: Extremely limited. Foreigners must live in Brunei for at least 25 years and pass a notoriously difficult Malay language and culture test. Very few are approved.
- By Marriage: Marriage to a Bruneian citizen does not confer automatic citizenship. Spouses must meet the 25-year residency and naturalization criteria.
- Dual Citizenship Not Allowed:Brunei does not allow dual citizenship under any circumstances. Acquiring a second nationality results in loss of Bruneian citizenship.
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm your eligibility through descent or meet the long-term residency requirements.
- Apply through Brunei’s National Registration Department.
- Submit all required documents including birth certificates, proof of residency, and integration records.
- Pass an advanced oral and written Malay language and cultural test.
- Renounce all other nationalities before final approval is granted.
Benefits of Bruneian Citizenship
- Right to live, work, and own land in Brunei
- Access to free healthcare and education
- Social welfare benefits and legal protections under Bruneian law
- Ability to pass citizenship to children (if father is a Bruneian citizen)
Frequently asked questions.
Does Brunei allow dual citizenship?
No. Dual citizenship is strictly prohibited in Brunei. You must renounce any other nationality to be eligible for naturalization or to retain Bruneian citizenship.
Can I get Bruneian citizenship through my parents?
Yes, if your father is a Bruneian citizen. Children born to Bruneian mothers may apply but are not granted citizenship automatically.
Can I get citizenship through marriage?
No, marriage does not automatically confer citizenship. The spouse must still meet the 25-year residency requirement and pass the rigorous language and culture test.
Will I owe taxes in both countries?
Since Brunei doesn’t allow dual citizenship, you’ll be expected to renounce all other nationalities. Brunei has no personal income tax, but consult a tax advisor for exit or transitional tax implications from your former citizenship.