Residence & citizenship
Beninese Naturalisation (Beninese Citizenship)
For a foreign resident seeking to acquire Beninese nationality by naturalisation after settling in the country.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
There is a discrepancy in the required residence period: the Ministry of Justice service page states 3 years, while the Code of Beninese Nationality (Law 2022-32) and secondary sources indicate 5 years, and the marriage probationary period is reported as 5 years. Verify the current statutory period against the Nationality Code before relying on it.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Benin government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Naturalisation (Code de la nationalité béninoise, Loi n°2022-32)
- Route type
- Citizenship by naturalisation
- Residence requirement
- At least 3 years of habitual residence in Benin
- Stated on the Ministry of Justice service page; see review flag on the differing 5-year figure
- Cost
- 45,000 CFA francs (stamp/processing)
- Processing time
- Around 6 months
Who it is for
- Adult foreign residents (18+) who have lived in Benin and integrated into the community
- Foreign spouses of Beninese nationals (after the marriage probationary period)
Requirements
- Application form from the Direction des Affaires Civiles et des Sceaux
- Three certified copies of the birth certificate
- Attestation/proof of residence in Benin
- Certified copy of passport or ID; medical certificate; employment certificate or business registration
- Nationality certificate from country of origin; tax certificate
- Payment receipt for 45,000 CFA francs
What you can do
- Acquire Beninese nationality if the application is granted
- Hold dual nationality (Benin admits it)
How to apply
- Obtain and complete the naturalisation application form from the Ministry of Justice
- Assemble the required civil, residence, financial and medical documents
- Pay the 45,000 CFA franc fee and submit the file
- Await the decision of the Minister of Justice (about 6 months)
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.