Nationality of South Sudan: all obtaining pathways
South Sudan, Africa's youngest state, requires ten years of residence for ordinary naturalization, reduced to five years of marriage to a South Sudanese citizen with residence. Nationality is acquired automatically by birth in the territory and by descent.
1Nationality by birth in the territory (ius soli)
Nationality by birth in the territory (ius soli)
Requirements
- Birth in South Sudan of South Sudanese parents
- Children of unknown parents found in South Sudanese territory are presumed South Sudanese
- Membership in one of the indigenous communities of South Sudan
Documentation
- South Sudanese birth certificate
- Parents' identity documents
- Proof of membership in an indigenous community
2Nationality by descent (ius sanguinis)
Nationality by descent (ius sanguinis)
Requirements
- Child of a South Sudanese father or mother
- Nationality is transmitted through paternal or maternal filiation
- Membership in an indigenous community of South Sudan at the time of independence (9 July 2011)
- Dual nationality permitted
Documentation
- South Sudanese parent's birth certificate
- Applicant's birth certificate
- Proof of filiation
- Proof of membership in an indigenous community
3Naturalization by residence
Naturalization by residence
Requirements
- 10 years of legal and habitual residence in South Sudan
- Legal age of majority
- Good conduct and no criminal record
- Knowledge of the English or Arabic language
- Legitimate means of subsistence
- Contribution to the development of the country
- Dual nationality permitted
Documentation
- Valid passport or identity document
- Certificate of residence of at least 10 years
- Criminal record certificate
- Certificate of proficiency in English or Arabic
- Proof of means of subsistence
4Naturalization by marriage
Naturalization by marriage
Requirements
- Marriage to a South Sudanese citizen
- Legal residence in South Sudan
- Good conduct and moral character
- The foreign spouse may apply for nationality after a period of marriage and residence
- Dual nationality permitted
Documentation
- Marriage certificate
- South Sudanese spouse's passport
- Certificate of residence
- Criminal record certificate
Frequently asked questions about the nationality of South Sudan
How many years of residence does South Sudan require to naturalize?
According to the main pathway of South Sudan (Naturalization by residence), the term is 10 years of continuous and uninterrupted residence before applying (Nationality Act 2011, s. 10). The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.
Does South Sudan allow dual nationality?
Dual nationality permitted
Can the nationality of South Sudan be obtained by marriage?
Yes, through the Naturalization by marriage pathway (5 years of continuous married life in South Sudan with the national spouse; no renunciation of previous nationality required (s. 13)). The complete requirements appear in the fact sheet of that pathway.
What documentation does naturalization in South Sudan require?
The Naturalization by residence pathway requires: Valid passport or identity document; Certificate of residence of at least 10 years; Criminal record certificate; Certificate of proficiency in English or Arabic; Proof of means of subsistence.
What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of South Sudan?
South Sudan provides 4 pathways: Nationality by birth in the territory, Nationality by descent, Naturalization by residence, Naturalization by marriage.
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