Get Your Democratic Republic of the Congo Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Individuals born in the DRC to at least one Congolese parent are citizens by birth.
- By Descent: Children born abroad to a Congolese citizen (typically the father) may be eligible for citizenship by descent, if registered properly.
- By Marriage: Foreign spouses may apply for naturalization after 7 years of legal marriage and residence in the DRC.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals may apply after 10 years of legal residence and proof of integration into Congolese society.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Not Allowed: The DRC does not recognize dual citizenship. Citizens acquiring another nationality lose their Congolese citizenship automatically, unless an exception is granted by presidential decree.
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm your eligibility path: descent, marriage, or naturalization.
- Apply through the Ministry of Justice or at a Congolese consulate.
- Submit documentation and complete interviews or background checks.
- For naturalization: demonstrate integration, language skills, and clean criminal record.
- Take an oath of allegiance and receive your citizenship certificate.
Benefits of Congolese Citizenship
- Right to reside, work, and vote in the DRC
- Access to public land ownership and education
- Full participation in civic and political life
Frequently asked questions.
Does the DRC allow dual citizenship?
No. The DRC constitution prohibits dual nationality. If a Congolese citizen acquires a second nationality voluntarily, they automatically lose their Congolese citizenship unless reinstated by decree.
Can I claim citizenship through my Congolese father or mother?
Yes. Citizenship by descent is available, though traditionally patrilineal. Registration and documentation are required.
Can I become Congolese through marriage?
Yes. After 7 years of marriage and legal residence in the DRC, a foreign spouse may apply for naturalization.
How long do I need to live in the DRC to naturalize?
Naturalization requires 10 years of continuous legal residence and strong ties to Congolese society.
Do I have to renounce my current citizenship?
Yes. The DRC requires exclusive allegiance. You must give up your other citizenship to be recognized as Congolese.
Do I have to pay taxes in the DRC as a dual citizen?
Since dual citizenship is not allowed, only recognized Congolese residents are subject to local taxes on income earned in the country.