Nationality of Gambia: all obtaining pathways
Gambia requires fifteen years of continuous residence for ordinary naturalization, one of the longest regimes in West Africa, and seven years of residence after marriage to a Gambian citizen. Citizenship is transmitted by birth and by descent.
1Citizenship by birth in territory
Citizenship by birth in territory
Requirements
- Born in Gambia after the 1997 Constitution, when at birth one of the parents is a citizen by birth (presumption in favor of the newborn)
Documentation
- Gambian birth certificate
- Parent's citizenship documents
2Citizenship by descent
Citizenship by descent
Requirements
- Born outside Gambia to a father or mother who is a Gambian citizen not acquired through this route or equivalent constitutional provision (descent by birth)
Documentation
- Birth certificates of the applicant and the parent
3Citizenship by marriage (registration)
Citizenship by marriage (registration)
Requirements
- Married to a Gambian citizen with habitual residence in Gambia for not less than SEVEN (7) years since the marriage (or a widow/divorcee with 7 years after the dissolution)
- Application in the form prescribed by an Act of Parliament
Documentation
- Marriage certificate
- Proof of 7 years of residence
- Spouse's identity documents
4Naturalization
Naturalization
Requirements
- Continuous residence of not less than FIFTEEN (15) years in Gambia
- Good conduct and other eligibility criteria under the naturalization law
- Renunciation or loss of another citizenship possible; discretionary registrable grant
Documentation
- Registration application by naturalization
- Proofs of residence and character
Frequently asked questions about the nationality of Gambia
How many years of residence does Gambia require to naturalize?
According to the main pathway of Gambia (Naturalization), the term is 15 years of continuous residence. The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.
Does Gambia allow dual nationality?
Renunciation or loss of another citizenship possible; discretionary registrable grant
Can the nationality of Gambia be obtained by marriage?
Yes, through the Citizenship by marriage pathway (7 years of residence after marriage). The complete requirements appear in the fact sheet of that pathway.
What documentation does naturalization in Gambia require?
The Naturalization pathway requires: Registration application by naturalization; Proofs of residence and character.
What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of Gambia?
Gambia provides 4 pathways: Citizenship by birth in territory, Citizenship by descent, Citizenship by marriage, Naturalization.
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