Nationality of Sudan: all obtaining pathways
Sudan requires five years of residence for ordinary naturalization, with a reduced period of two years of marriage to a Sudanese citizen accompanied by residence in the country. Nationality is acquired automatically both by birth in the national territory and by descent, with no additional requirement.
1Nationality by birth in the territory (ius soli)
Nationality by birth in the territory (ius soli)
Requirements
- Birth in Sudan of Sudanese parents
- Children of unknown parents found in Sudanese territory are presumed Sudanese
- Limited double ius soli
Documentation
- Sudanese birth certificate
- Parents' identity documents
- In case of unknown parents: foundling certificate
2Nationality by descent (ius sanguinis)
Nationality by descent (ius sanguinis)
Requirements
- Child of a Sudanese father or a Sudanese mother
- Nationality is transmitted through the paternal line; a Sudanese mother may transmit nationality under certain conditions
- Dual nationality permitted since 2005
Documentation
- Sudanese parent's birth certificate
- Applicant's birth certificate
- Proof of filiation
3Naturalization by residence
Naturalization by residence
Requirements
- 5 years of legal and habitual residence in Sudan
- Legal age of majority
- Good conduct and no criminal record
- Knowledge of the Arabic language
- Legitimate means of subsistence
- Intention to reside permanently in Sudan
- Dual nationality permitted
Documentation
- Valid passport or identity document
- Certificate of residence of at least 5 years
- Criminal record certificate
- Certificate of proficiency in the Arabic language
- Proof of means of subsistence
4Naturalization by marriage
Naturalization by marriage
Requirements
- Marriage to a Sudanese citizen
- Legal residence in Sudan
- Good conduct and moral character
- The foreign woman married to a Sudanese may apply for nationality
- Dual nationality permitted
Documentation
- Marriage certificate
- Sudanese spouse's passport
- Certificate of residence
- Criminal record certificate
Frequently asked questions about the nationality of Sudan
How many years of residence does Sudan require to naturalize?
According to the main pathway of Sudan (Naturalization by residence), the term is 5 years. The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.
Does Sudan allow dual nationality?
Dual nationality permitted
Can the nationality of Sudan be obtained by marriage?
Yes, through the Naturalization by marriage pathway (2 years of marriage and residence). The complete requirements appear in the fact sheet of that pathway.
What documentation does naturalization in Sudan require?
The Naturalization by residence pathway requires: Valid passport or identity document; Certificate of residence of at least 5 years; Criminal record certificate; Certificate of proficiency in the Arabic language; Proof of means of subsistence.
What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of Sudan?
Sudan provides 4 pathways: Nationality by birth in the territory, Nationality by descent, Naturalization by residence, Naturalization by marriage.
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