Get Your Djibouti Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: A person born in Djibouti to Djiboutian parents is automatically a citizen.
- By Descent: Children born abroad to a Djiboutian father — or a Djiboutian mother in certain circumstances — are eligible for citizenship by descent.
- By Marriage: A foreign spouse of a Djiboutian citizen may apply for naturalization after several years of marriage and residency.
- By Naturalization: Foreigners can apply for citizenship after 10 years of legal residence, or fewer if married to a Djiboutian citizen.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Not Allowed: Djibouti does not generally recognize dual nationality. Applicants for Djiboutian citizenship are expected to renounce any other citizenships, unless granted a rare exemption.
Step-by-Step Process
- Determine your path: descent, marriage, or naturalization.
- Submit an application to the Ministry of Interior or a Djiboutian consulate.
- Provide required documents and pass background checks.
- Demonstrate good conduct and integration into Djiboutian society.
- Take an oath of allegiance and receive your citizenship certificate.
Benefits of Djiboutian Citizenship
- Right to reside, work, and own land in Djibouti
- Access to government services, healthcare, and education
- Eligibility to vote and participate in political life
Frequently asked questions.
Does Djibouti allow dual citizenship?
No, Djibouti does not generally allow dual citizenship. Individuals who acquire Djiboutian nationality are typically required to renounce their other nationalities.
Can I get Djiboutian citizenship through my parent?
Yes. If your father (or in some cases your mother) is Djiboutian, you may be eligible for citizenship by descent, even if born abroad.
Can I apply through marriage?
Yes. A foreign spouse of a Djiboutian citizen may apply for naturalization after several years of marriage and residence in Djibouti.
How long do I have to live in Djibouti to naturalize?
You typically need 10 years of legal residence, or fewer if married to a citizen or contributing significantly to the country (e.g. through service or investment).
Do I need to renounce my other citizenship?
Yes. Djibouti requires naturalization applicants to give up other citizenships, though exceptions may be granted in rare cases.
Do I have to pay taxes in Djibouti as a citizen?
If you reside in Djibouti or earn income there, you must pay local taxes. Non-resident citizens are generally taxed only on Djiboutian-sourced income.