Nationality of Zambia: all obtaining pathways
Zambia requires ten years of residence for registration as a citizen by naturalization, five years of marriage to a Zambian for the spousal route, and five years of ordinary residence for registration by descent or birth in the country. Nationality is transmitted by birth —ius sanguinis and ius soli—.
1Nationality by birth (ius sanguinis/ius soli)
Nationality by birth (ius sanguinis/ius soli)
Requirements
- At least one parent is or was a Zambian national at the time of birth
- Abandoned children under 8 whose parents are unknown, by court order
- Since 2016, ius soli combined with ius sanguinis is permitted
Documentation
- Birth certificate
- Zambian identity document of the father or mother
- Proof of Zambian nationality of at least one parent
2Registration by residence (Constitution 2016, art. 37)
Registration by residence (Constitution 2016, art. 37)
Requirements
- Have been ordinarily resident in Zambia for a CONTINUOUS period of at least ten years immediately preceding the application (art. 37(1)(c))
- REDUCED TO FIVE YEARS for a person born in Zambia (art. 37(1)(a)) or born outside with an ancestor who is or was a citizen (art. 37(1)(b))
- Have attained the age of eighteen years (art. 37(1))
- Apply to the Citizenship Board of Zambia (sec 17 of Act 33/2016)
Documentation
- Application form
- Birth certificate
- Valid passport and residence permits
- Criminal record certificate
- Proof of knowledge of the language
- Reference letters
- Medical certificate
3Registration by marriage
Registration by marriage
Requirements
- Marriage to a Zambian national for at least 5 years
- No additional minimum residence required
- Good character and conduct
- Dual nationality is permitted
Documentation
- Marriage certificate
- Zambian identity document of the spouse
- Applicant's birth certificate
- Criminal record certificate
4Registration by descent or birth in Zambia
Registration by descent or birth in Zambia
Requirements
- Born in Zambia with ordinary residence of at least 5 years
- Or born abroad to a Zambian father/mother with 5 years of residence in Zambia
- Dual nationality is permitted
Documentation
- Birth certificate
- Proof of 5 years of ordinary residence in Zambia
- Identity document of the Zambian father or mother
Frequently asked questions about the nationality of Zambia
How many years of residence does Zambia require to naturalize?
According to the main pathway of Zambia (Registration by residence (Constitution 2016, art. 37)), the term is 10 continuous years (5 if born in Zambia or with a Zambian ancestor). The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.
Can the nationality of Zambia be obtained by marriage?
Yes, through the Registration by marriage pathway (5 years of marriage). The complete requirements appear in the fact sheet of that pathway.
What documentation does naturalization in Zambia require?
The Registration by residence pathway requires: Application form; Birth certificate; Valid passport and residence permits; Criminal record certificate; Proof of knowledge of the language; among 2 more documents.
What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of Zambia?
Zambia provides 4 pathways: Nationality by birth, Registration by residence, Registration by marriage, Registration by descent or birth in Zambia.
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