Nationality of Guinea-Bissau: all obtaining pathways
Guinea-Bissau regulates its nationality under Law 2/92: nationality of origin is acquired by filiation and adoption, and marriage is governed by Article 8, with no timeframe specified in the official source. There is also an ordinary naturalization route by residence.
1Nationality of origin
Nationality of origin
Requirements
- A newborn foundling in the territory of Guinea-Bissau is presumed a citizen of origin unless proven otherwise (Citizenship Law No. 2/92, art. 5)
- Child of a Guinean parent of origin
Documentation
- Birth certificate
- Parent's documents
2Acquisition by filiation
Acquisition by filiation
Requirements
- Child born to a Guinean father or mother (art. 6 of the Citizenship Law No. 2/92)
Documentation
- Child's birth certificate
- Parent's nationality document
3Acquisition by adoption
Acquisition by adoption
Requirements
- Adoption by a Guinean citizen in accordance with the law (art. 7)
Documentation
- Adoption order/certificate
4Acquisition by marriage
Acquisition by marriage
Requirements
- Marriage to a Guinean citizen (art. 8); annulment does not prejudice nationality acquired in good faith
Documentation
- Marriage certificate
- Spouse's documents
5Acquisition by naturalization
Acquisition by naturalization
Requirements
- Naturalization application under Citizenship Law No. 2/92 (art. 9) and its Regulations (Decree-Law No. 6/2011)
Documentation
- File in accordance with the nationality regulations
Frequently asked questions about the nationality of Guinea-Bissau
How many years of residence does Guinea-Bissau require to naturalize?
According to the main pathway of Guinea-Bissau (Acquisition by naturalization), the term is 10 years of habitual and regular residence (Law 2/92, art. 9; waivable for relevant services). The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.
Can the nationality of Guinea-Bissau be obtained by marriage?
Yes, through the Acquisition by marriage pathway (3 years of marriage + 1 year of residence in the territory, renouncing the previous nationality (Law 2/92, art. 8)). The complete requirements appear in the fact sheet of that pathway.
What documentation does naturalization in Guinea-Bissau require?
The Acquisition by naturalization pathway requires: File in accordance with the nationality regulations.
What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of Guinea-Bissau?
Guinea-Bissau provides 5 pathways: Nationality of origin, Acquisition by filiation, Acquisition by adoption, Acquisition by marriage, Acquisition by naturalization.
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