Get Your Cameroon Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Individuals born in Cameroon to at least one Cameroonian parent are considered citizens by birth.
- By Descent: Children born abroad to a Cameroonian father — and in some cases a Cameroonian mother — may acquire citizenship by descent.
- By Marriage: A foreign spouse of a Cameroonian citizen may apply for naturalization after 5 years of legal marriage and residence.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals can apply for Cameroonian citizenship after 10 years of legal residence and integration.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Not Allowed: Cameroon does not recognize dual citizenship. Cameroonians who voluntarily acquire another nationality are considered to have lost their Cameroonian citizenship unless they renounce the other citizenship and reapply.
Step-by-Step Process
- Identify your eligibility path (descent, marriage, or naturalization).
- Submit an application to the Ministry of Territorial Administration or Cameroonian consulate.
- Provide supporting documentation (birth, marriage, or residency proof).
- Complete background checks and interviews if required.
- Take an oath of allegiance and receive your Cameroonian citizenship certificate.
Benefits of Cameroonian Citizenship
- Right to live, work, and vote in Cameroon
- Access to public services, education, and healthcare
- Ownership rights to land and property
Frequently asked questions.
Does Cameroon allow dual citizenship?
No. Cameroon does not recognize dual citizenship. If a Cameroonian acquires another nationality voluntarily, they automatically lose their Cameroonian citizenship unless special steps are taken to reverse it.
Can I claim Cameroonian citizenship through my parents?
Yes. If you have a Cameroonian father (or in some cases a Cameroonian mother), you may be eligible for citizenship by descent. Registration is typically required.
Can I become a Cameroonian citizen through marriage?
Yes. Foreign spouses can apply for naturalization after 5 years of legal marriage and residence in Cameroon.
How long must I live in Cameroon to naturalize?
10 years of continuous legal residence is required, along with proof of integration and good conduct.
Do I have to give up my other citizenship to become Cameroonian?
Yes. Cameroon requires applicants to renounce any other citizenship to acquire or maintain Cameroonian nationality.
Do I have to pay taxes in Cameroon as a dual citizen?
Cameroon taxes residents on income earned within its borders. Since dual citizenship is not permitted, you must be a resident and sole Cameroonian citizen to owe taxes locally.