Citizenship can be acquired in the Central African Republic at birth, through marriage, or later in life through naturalization.

Citizenship by birth

Those who acquire the citizenship of the CAR at birth include:

• Children born anywhere with at least one parent from Central Africa

• Children born in the Central African Republic who have reached at least twelve years of age and who have not reached the age of majority, regardless of the nationality of their parents

• Castaways or orphans whose parents are unknown found on the territory of the CAR.

Naturalization

Naturalization allows a foreign citizen to obtain the citizenship of the CAR. The procedure is different in each individual case.

What is naturalization?

Naturalization is the last step in the process of integration into the way of life of the Central African Republic. This gives you the right to vote and run for office.

Since the CAR recognizes dual citizenship, applicants for a passport from this country do not risk losing their original citizenship, provided that the country of origin also allows dual citizenship.

What are the requirements for obtaining CAR citizenship through naturalization?

Naturalization may be granted to persons who have lived in the territory for a sufficient period of time to demonstrate that they understand the customs and traditions of the society. The general conditions are that applicants invest in real estate or agriculture, have a national certificate and have lived in the country for thirty-five years.

The residence information must confirm that the person has permanently resided in the Central African Republic during the five years immediately preceding the submission of the application for naturalization. Applicants must submit documents, including a valid passport and residence permit, medical certificate, proof of no criminal record and proof of real estate investment.

How much does it cost to obtain citizenship through naturalization?

As of 2012, the administrative fee for processing a naturalization application was 5 million XAF - Central African Franc (equivalent to €7,622.45 or US$9,021.62).

Who else can obtain citizenship of the CAR through naturalization?

In addition to foreigners who meet the above criteria, other persons who may be naturalized include the following:

• Persons born in the Central African Republic who did not acquire citizenship before reaching the age of majority may naturalize after two years of residence

• Children and spouses of a naturalized foreigner may naturalize without the period of residence when the parent/husband acquires citizenship

• Children legalized by the father automatically acquire their citizenship after the completion of the legalization adoption

• Adopted children whose parents are Central African may opt for citizenship in the Central African Republic and may naturalize without proof of residency upon reaching the age of majority

• A foreigner who has made exceptional contributions in the arts, business, or science may be naturalized without proof of residency.

Citizenship by marriage

A foreigner who marries a citizen of the Central African Republic is automatically entitled to citizenship upon registration of the marriage.

The spouse of a citizen of Central Africa can naturalize after two years of residence.