Nationality of Eritrea: all obtaining pathways
Eritrea transmits citizenship by origin —ius sanguinis— and regulates naturalization by residence with variable timeframes depending on the period of arrival in the country, under a notoriously restrictive regime. Citizenship status is closely tied to Eritrean national service.
1Citizenship by origin (ius sanguinis)
Citizenship by origin (ius sanguinis)
Requirements
- Being a descendant of a person resident in Eritrea before 1933
- At least one parent must be a Eritrean national
- Nationality is transmitted through either the maternal or paternal line indistinctly
Documentation
- Birth certificate
- Proof of descent from a resident of Eritrea before 1933
- Parents' identity documents
- 3 Eritrean witnesses
We could not verify the official portal
The official portal was not reachable during our latest review. The information was cross-checked against the sources listed below. Please confirm the requirements on the official portal before starting your application.
2Naturalization by residence
Naturalization by residence
Requirements
- Persons who arrived in Eritrea between 1933 and 1951 may apply for a nationality certificate
- Persons who arrived after 1951 may apply for naturalization
- Good character and conduct
- Renounce any other nationality
- Dual nationality is not permitted
Documentation
- Formal application
- Birth certificate
- Proof of residence in Eritrea
- Criminal record certificate
- Letter of recommendation from the local community
We could not verify the official portal
The official portal was not reachable during our latest review. The information was cross-checked against the sources listed below. Please confirm the requirements on the official portal before starting your application.
Frequently asked questions about the nationality of Eritrea
How many years of residence does Eritrea require to naturalize?
According to the main pathway of Eritrea (Naturalization by residence), the term is 10 years domicile before 1974 (20 years with periodic visits abroad), for non-Eritreans resident from 1952 onward (Proclamation 21/1992, art. 4; full legal text, gazette not digitized). The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.
Does Eritrea allow dual nationality?
Renounce any other nationality
What documentation does naturalization in Eritrea require?
The Naturalization by residence pathway requires: Formal application; Birth certificate; Proof of residence in Eritrea; Criminal record certificate; Letter of recommendation from the local community.
What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of Eritrea?
Eritrea provides 2 pathways: Citizenship by origin, Naturalization by residence.
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Anything to correct or add about Eritrea?
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