Nationality of Seychelles: all obtaining pathways
Seychelles requires fifteen years of residence for ordinary naturalization, with a reduced period of five years of residence in marriage for those married to Seychellois citizens. Nationality is transmitted at birth under the ius sanguinis of Seychelles law.
1Nationality by birth (ius sanguinis)
Nationality by birth (ius sanguinis)
Requirements
- At least one parent must be a Seychellois national
- The Constitution allows deriving nationality from either parent
- Abandoned children found in Seychelles are presumed Seychellois
Documentation
- Birth certificate
- Seychellois identity document of the father or mother
- Proof of Seychellois nationality
2Naturalization by residence
Naturalization by residence
Requirements
- Legal and continuous residence of 15 years in Seychelles (or 10 years in certain cases)
- Fast track: PERMANENT resident for 10 years immediately before applying + aggregate physical presence of at least 13 years (sec 5(3)(ii)(a), Dec 2013)
- Minimum age of 18
- Good character and conduct
- Sufficient knowledge of English, French or Seychellois Creole
- Intention to continue residing in Seychelles
- Dual nationality is permitted
Documentation
- Formal application
- Birth certificate
- Valid passport
- Residence permits proving 15 years of residence
- Criminal record certificate
- Medical certificate
- Proof of knowledge of the language
- Reference letters from Seychellois citizens
3Naturalization by marriage
Naturalization by marriage
Requirements
- Marriage to a Seychellois citizen
- Residence in Seychelles for at least 5 years
- Good character and conduct
- Dual nationality is permitted
Documentation
- Marriage certificate
- Seychellois identity document of the spouse
- Applicant's birth certificate
- Certificate of residence of 5 years
- Criminal record certificate
Frequently asked questions about the nationality of Seychelles
How many years of residence does Seychelles require to naturalize?
According to the main pathway of Seychelles (Naturalization by residence), the term is 15 years. The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.
Does Seychelles allow dual nationality?
Dual nationality is permitted
Can the nationality of Seychelles be obtained by marriage?
Yes, through the Naturalization by marriage pathway (15 years of marriage to a Seychelles citizen + 2 aggregate years of legal residence + citizenship exam (80%)). The complete requirements appear in the fact sheet of that pathway.
What documentation does naturalization in Seychelles require?
The Naturalization by residence pathway requires: Formal application; Birth certificate; Valid passport; Residence permits proving 15 years of residence; Criminal record certificate; among 3 more documents.
What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of Seychelles?
Seychelles provides 3 pathways: Nationality by birth, Naturalization by residence, Naturalization by marriage.
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