Nationality of Micronesia: all obtaining pathways
Micronesia requires five continuous years of residence both for ordinary naturalization and for the route through marriage to a Micronesian citizen. Citizenship is transmitted by birth in the territory — ius soli — and by descent, with no residence requirement.
1No general naturalisation by residence (FSM Constitution, art. III)
No general naturalisation by residence (FSM Constitution, art. III)
Requirements
- The FSM provides NO naturalisation by long residence for unconnected foreigners: neither the Constitution nor the Code (Title 8) contemplate it
- The route open to foreigners is that of the SPOUSE of a citizen (see marriage route)
- The 5-year residence in the FSM is a requirement of THAT route, not a general naturalisation
- Dual citizenship is NOT permitted: naturalised persons must renounce their former citizenship
Documentation
- Naturalization application form
- Valid passport
- Criminal record certificate
- Proof of 5 years' residence
- References from Micronesian citizens
- Medical certificate
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.
2Citizenship by birth (ius soli)
Citizenship by birth (ius soli)
Requirements
- Being born in the FSM where at least one of the parents is a Micronesian citizen
- Being born in the FSM where at least one of the parents is a permanent resident eligible for citizenship
Documentation
- Micronesian birth certificate
- Proof of the parents' citizenship
3Citizenship by descent (ius sanguinis)
Citizenship by descent (ius sanguinis)
Requirements
- Being born outside the FSM where at least one of the parents is a Micronesian citizen
- Registering the birth with the FSM's consular authorities
Documentation
- Applicant's birth certificate
- Proof of the Micronesian parent's citizenship
- Overseas birth registration form
4Spouse of a citizen (FSM Code Title 8, ch. 1)
Spouse of a citizen (FSM Code Title 8, ch. 1)
Requirements
- Be married to an FSM citizen
- Have resided in the FSM for at least 5 years (typically as a resident spouse)
- Knowledge of English or a language of the relevant state
- Renounce all other citizenship (no dual nationality)
- Discretionary government decision (not a right)
Documentation
- Marriage certificate
- Proof of the spouse's citizenship
- Criminal record certificate
- Proof of 5 years' residence in the FSM
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 Micronesia
How many years of residence does Micronesia require to naturalize?
According to the main pathway of Micronesia (No general naturalisation by residence (FSM Constitution, art. III)), the term is Route does not exist. The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.
Does Micronesia allow dual nationality?
Dual citizenship is NOT permitted: naturalised persons must renounce their former citizenship
Can the nationality of Micronesia be obtained by marriage?
Yes, through the Spouse of a citizen pathway (5 years of residence (spouse, discretionary)). The complete requirements appear in the fact sheet of that pathway.
What documentation does naturalization in Micronesia require?
The No general naturalisation by residence pathway requires: Naturalization application form; Valid passport; Criminal record certificate; Proof of 5 years' residence; References from Micronesian citizens; among 1 more documents.
What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of Micronesia?
Micronesia provides 4 pathways: No general naturalisation by residence, Citizenship by birth, Citizenship by descent, Spouse of a citizen.
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