Dual citizenship Uganda refers to the legal status of simultaneously holding citizenship of Uganda and another country. The Ugandan Constitution permits citizens to retain or acquire another nationality while maintaining Ugandan citizenship, provided both countries allow dual nationality. The process is managed by the National Citizenship and Immigration Board under the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Dual citizenship ensures Ugandans in the diaspora and eligible foreign nationals can contribute to Uganda’s development while maintaining connections to their country of origin.
Procedure
For Ugandan Citizens Applying for Another Citizenship
- Notify the National Citizenship and Immigration Board (NCIB):
A Ugandan citizen intending to acquire another nationality while retaining Ugandan citizenship must submit written notice to the NCIB. - Prepare Required Documents:
- A statutory declaration confirming Ugandan citizenship only.
- A declaration of renunciation of any third citizenship, if applicable.
- A copy of the application for citizenship of the new country.
- Attach Supporting Evidence:
Include proof of age (18 years or above) and the prescribed application fees. - Submit Application:
Deliver the application to the National Citizenship and Immigration Board, which reviews and processes it before granting dual nationality approval.
For Non-Ugandans Seeking Ugandan Citizenship
- Obtain Forms:
Visit the Directorate of Immigration Office at the Ministry of Internal Affairs to collect the Dual Citizenship Application Form and the Oath of Allegiance to Uganda form. - Fill and Notarize Forms:
Complete the forms accurately and have them commissioned by a High Court Judge or Notary Public. - Pay the Prescribed Fees:
- Dual citizenship for foreigners – USD 500
- Dual citizenship for Ugandans in the diaspora – USD 400
- Attach Required Documents:
Combine all necessary documents and submit them to the attending officer for verification. - Processing and Approval:
If all details are correct, the application is approved and the Dual Citizenship Certificate is issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Required Documents
For Ugandan Citizens:
- Cover letter addressed to the Secretary, NCIB
- Letter of good conduct from Interpol or the applicant’s home country
- Proof of Ugandan citizenship by registration (if applicable)
- Evidence that the other country allows dual citizenship
- Two recent passport-size photos
- Proof of residence in Uganda for at least ten years
- Medical report confirming sanity
- Proof of age (birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of English, Swahili, or vernacular language proficiency
- Evidence of former Ugandan citizenship (for diaspora applicants)
For Non-Ugandan Applicants:
- Cover letter addressed to the NCIB Secretary
- Recommendation letter from a Ugandan sponsor (administrative officer, MP, mayor, etc.)
- Letter of good conduct from Interpol or home country
- Proof that the applicant’s country allows dual citizenship
- Three recent passport-size photos
- Evidence of residence in Uganda for ten years (work permits, residence certificates, etc.)
- Medical and mental health report
- Proof of age (birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of non-bankruptcy and URA tax compliance (PAYE)
- Oath of Allegiance to Uganda
- LC1 recommendation letter
Eligibility
Applicants eligible for dual citizenship Uganda include:
- Ugandan citizens seeking to acquire another nationality that permits dual citizenship.
- Foreign nationals from countries that legally allow dual nationality and wish to become Ugandan citizens.
Fees
- Foreign Applicants: USD 500
- Ugandans in the Diaspora: USD 400
Validity
The Dual Citizenship Certificate is valid indefinitely unless revoked under the law for false declarations or acquiring a third nationality.
Processing Time
Processing duration varies but generally takes between 30 and 90 days, depending on document verification and approval by the National Citizenship and Immigration Board.
Office Location and Contact
Ministry of Internal Affairs – Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control
Plot 75 Jinja Road, P.O. Box 7165 / 7191, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 414 595945 | Fax: +256 414 348707
Website: www.immigration.go.ug
National Citizenship and Immigration Board (NCIB)
Plot 75 Jinja Road, P.O. Box 7191, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 414 258355 | Fax: +256 414 343088
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.mia.go.ug
Instructions
Applicants must prove:
- All submitted documents are genuine and not fraudulent.
- They are not involved in espionage, crimes, or activities against Uganda.
- They are 18 years or older and mentally sound.
- They do not possess a third citizenship.
- Their country of origin permits dual citizenship.
- They are not subject to deportation or major criminal sentencing.
- They have resided in Uganda for at least ten years.
- They are ready to take the Oath of Allegiance.
Need for the Document
The dual citizenship Uganda certificate allows citizens to legally hold two nationalities, facilitating travel, business, and residency across borders. It helps Ugandans in the diaspora reconnect with their homeland and foreign investors integrate without renouncing their original nationality.
Information Which Might Help
Dual citizenship can be acquired through:
- Investment: For investors who have lived in Uganda for 10+ years with valid business registration.
- Marriage: For individuals married to a Ugandan for at least three years.
- Diaspora: For former Ugandans who naturalized elsewhere and wish to reclaim citizenship.
A dual citizen enjoys full civil rights but cannot hold specific government offices, such as President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Cabinet Minister, IGP, or military command positions.
Other Important Information
- Having a third citizenship automatically disqualifies an applicant.
- Dual citizens must enter and exit Uganda using the same Ugandan passport.
- Misuse of passports to deceive immigration officers constitutes an offence.
- Dual citizenship can be revoked for fraud, espionage, or breach of Uganda’s national security.
