Citizenship can be obtained in South Sudan by birth or later by naturalization.

By birth

Those who receive citizenship automatically at birth include:

• Children born anywhere to a parent, grandparent, or great-grandfather born in South Sudan who is a South Sudanese citizen or ethnically belonging to the indigenous group of South Sudan;
• Individuals who in 2011 either themselves lived in South Sudan whose ancestors lived in South Sudan as of January 1, 1956; or
• orphans found in the country, whose parents are unknown.

By naturalization

Naturalization can be granted to individuals who have lived in the territory for a sufficient period to confirm that they understand the customs and traditions of society. The general provisions stipulate that applicants must have good character and conduct; have no criminal record; have the mental capacity or have a guardian who can act on their behalf; reside in the country for ten years. Persons who can be naturalized include:

• Wife of a South Sudanese citizen after five years of residence in the country;
• Minor children can be automatically naturalized when their parent acquires citizenship; or
• Persons who have provided services for the benefit of the country can naturalize without complying with other requirements.