Nationality of Chad: all obtaining pathways
Chad requires fifteen years of residence for ordinary naturalization, one of the longest periods in Africa, reduced to three years of marriage to a Chadian citizen. Nationality is acquired automatically by birth in the territory and by descent.
1Nationality by birth in the territory (ius soli)
Nationality by birth in the territory (ius soli)
Requirements
- Birth in Chad of parents originating from Chad
- Children of unknown parents found in Chadian territory are presumed Chadian
- Limited ius soli
Documentation
- Chadian birth certificate
- Parents' birth certificates
- Parents' identity documents
2Nationality by descent (ius sanguinis)
Nationality by descent (ius sanguinis)
Requirements
- Child of a Chadian father or a Chadian mother
- Nationality is transmitted through paternal or maternal filiation
- Dual nationality not formally recognized
Documentation
- Chadian parent's birth certificate
- Applicant's birth certificate
- Proof of filiation
3Naturalization by residence
Naturalization by residence
Requirements
- 15 years of legal and habitual residence in Chad
- Legal age of majority
- Good conduct and no criminal record
- Legitimate means of subsistence
- Assimilation into the Chadian community
- Knowledge of the French or Arabic language
Documentation
- Valid passport or identity document
- Certificate of residence of at least 15 years
- Criminal record certificate
- Proof of means of subsistence
- Certificate of proficiency in French or Arabic
4Naturalization by marriage
Naturalization by marriage
Requirements
- Marriage to a Chadian citizen
- Legal residence in Chad
- Good conduct and moral character
- The foreign woman married to a Chadian may acquire nationality by declaration
- Dual nationality not formally recognized
Documentation
- Marriage certificate
- Chadian spouse's passport
- Certificate of residence
- Criminal record certificate
Frequently asked questions about the nationality of Chad
How many years of residence does Chad require to naturalize?
According to the main pathway of Chad (Naturalization by residence), the term is 15 years. The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.
Can the nationality of Chad be obtained by marriage?
Yes, through the Naturalization by marriage pathway (3 years of marriage). The complete requirements appear in the fact sheet of that pathway.
What documentation does naturalization in Chad require?
The Naturalization by residence pathway requires: Valid passport or identity document; Certificate of residence of at least 15 years; Criminal record certificate; Proof of means of subsistence; Certificate of proficiency in French or Arabic.
What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of Chad?
Chad provides 4 pathways: Nationality by birth in the territory, Nationality by descent, Naturalization by residence, Naturalization by marriage.
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