Dual Citizenship
In Uganda, dual citizenship means the simultaneous possession of two citizenships of which one is Uganda. The possession of a third citizenship disqualifies one from holding or being a dual national of Uganda unless the third citizenship is renounced.
Until 2009, dual citizenship was prohibited in Uganda by Article 15 of the Constitution. Article 15 was amended by constitutional amendment No. Pursuant to which the Uganda Citizenship and Immigration Control (Amendments) Act 2009 was enacted providing for dual citizenship in Uganda.
The amendment was passed following the realization that Ugandans in the Diaspora make enormous contribution to the economic and socio-development of Uganda and the Government's need to:
- enable Ugandans in the Diaspora maintain linkages with their roots without any legal hindrances
- Attract potential investors
- Reap advantages that accrue from the grant of dual citizenship.
All Ugandans who lost their Ugandan citizenship prior to 2009 by way of obtaining citizenship of another country can now reacquire their former Ugandan citizenship. Ugandans who desire to acquire citizenship of another country can also do so without losing their Ugandan citizenship.
A citizen of Uganda of eighteen years and above who voluntarily acquires citizenship of another country may retain the citizenship of Uganda subject to the Constitution (of Uganda), the Citizenship and Immigration Act, and any law enacted by Parliament.
A person who is not a citizen of Uganda may, on acquiring the citizenship of Uganda, subject to the Constitution, the Citizenship and Immigration Act and any other law enacted by Parliament, retain the citizenship of another country.
WHO QUALIFIES TO HOLD DUAL CITIZENSHIP IN UGANDA?
- Any person holding Uganda citizenship and seeks citizenship of another country that allows dual citizenship and fulfills the requirements for dual nationality OR
- Any person who holds a citizenship of a country that permits dual nationality and also seeks Uganda citizenship and satisfies the requirements for grant of dual citizenship.
SUMMARY CHECK LIST FOR DUAL CITIZENSHIP APPLICANTS
- Duly completed dual citizenship application form and have it commissioned or Notarized by a High Court Judge or Notary Public.
- Cover letter addressed to the secretary of the National citizenship and Immigration Board.
- Letter of good conduct from the home country or Interpol.
- Proof that the applicant has been granted citizenship by registration (only applicable to foreigners who have been granted Ugandan Citizenship by Registration)
- Evidence that the second country other than Uganda allows dual citizenship (e.g. letter from immigration authority or High Commission or consulate of that other country or copy of the provisions of laws permitting dual citizenship of that other country)
- Two (2) recent Passport size photos of applicant
- Evidence that the applicant or his/her parents or grandparents have ever resided in Uganda for at least ten years.
- Medical report of sanity of the applicant.
- Proof that the applicant is above 18 years of age e.g., Birth certificate.
- Evidence that the applicant has adequate knowledge of English, Swahili or;
- Evidence that the applicant was formerly a Ugandan (only applicable to Ugandans in the Diaspora).
- Any of the prescribed vernacular languages.
Applicants for dual citizenship should use the link below to apply
