Nationality of Angola: all obtaining pathways
Angola requires ten years of residence for ordinary naturalization, with a reduced period of five years of residence in marriage for those married to Angolan citizens. Nationality is transmitted by birth in accordance with the ius sanguinis of Angolan legislation.
1Nationality by birth (ius sanguinis)
Nationality by birth (ius sanguinis)
Requirements
- At least one parent must be a Angolan national
- Nationality is transmitted by descent
- Children born in Angola to foreign parents may obtain nationality if the parents reside legally (limited ius soli)
- Abandoned children in the territory are presumed Angolan
Documentation
- Birth certificate
- Angolan identity document of the father or mother
- Bilhete de Identidade
2Naturalization by residence
Naturalization by residence
Requirements
- Legal and continuous residence of 10 years in Angola
- Minimum age of 18
- Good character and conduct
- Knowledge of Portuguese
- Integration into the Angolan community
- Not having been convicted of serious crimes
- Dual nationality permitted since 2021 (revised Nationality Law)
Documentation
- Formal application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Birth certificate
- Valid passport
- Residence visa and permits proving 10 years
- Criminal record certificate from Angola and the country of origin
- Medical certificate
- Proof of knowledge of Portuguese
- 3 recent photographs
3Naturalization by marriage
Naturalization by marriage
Requirements
- Marriage to a Angolan citizen
- Residence in Angola for at least 5 years
- Good character and conduct
- Knowledge of Portuguese
- Dual nationality permitted since 2021
Documentation
- Marriage certificate
- Angolan identity document of the spouse
- Applicant's birth certificate
- Certificate of residence of 5 years
- Criminal record certificate
- Proof of knowledge of Portuguese
Frequently asked questions about the nationality of Angola
How many years of residence does Angola require to naturalize?
According to the main pathway of Angola (Naturalization by residence), the term is 10 years. The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.
Does Angola allow dual nationality?
Dual nationality permitted since 2021 (revised Nationality Law)
Can the nationality of Angola be obtained by marriage?
Yes, through the Naturalization by marriage pathway (5 years of residence in marriage). The complete requirements appear in the fact sheet of that pathway.
What documentation does naturalization in Angola require?
The Naturalization by residence pathway requires: Formal application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Birth certificate; Valid passport; Residence visa and permits proving 10 years; Criminal record certificate from Angola and the country of origin; among 3 more documents.
What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of Angola?
Angola provides 3 pathways: Nationality by birth, Naturalization by residence, Naturalization by marriage.
Residence and nationality updates
Subscribe to know when a country changes its residence or nationality routes. One email, only when there is news.
Anything to correct or add about Angola?
If you have spotted incorrect or outdated information, or want to suggest additional details about nationality pathways in Angola, leave us your comment. We review every one personally.