Residence & citizenship
Ivorian Naturalisation as an Ivorian Citizen
Acquisition of Ivorian nationality by decree for eligible foreigners under the Nationality Code.
Under review — check current rules
Important information
On this page
- Official name
- Naturalisation (Ivorian nationality by decree)
- Route type
- Citizenship / naturalisation
- Legal basis
- Nationality Code - Law No. 61-415 of 1961, amended by Law No. 72-852 of 1972
- Minimum age
- 18 years
- Residence requirement
- 5 years continuous
- Immediately before the application; reducible in certain cases (e.g. to 2 years).
- How granted
- By decree, after an official investigation
- Following an inquiry into residence, conduct and circumstances.
- Where to apply
- Ministry of Justice (competent nationality authority)
- Or via an Ivorian diplomatic mission for guidance.
Who it is for
Adult foreigners lawfully settled in Côte d'Ivoire seeking to acquire Ivorian nationality, and, exceptionally, those who have rendered exceptional services to the country.
Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Meet the residence and conditions set by the Nationality Code (with exceptions for exceptional services or exceptional interest)
- Lodge a formal application for naturalisation
What you can do
- Acquire Ivorian nationality once naturalisation is granted by decree
- Have the naturalisation decree published in the Official Journal
How to apply
A naturalisation application is submitted and processed under the Ministry of Justice; nationality is granted by decree. Related procedures such as the certificate of nationality are handled via the public-service administration.
Documents you may need
- Valid passport and residence documentation proving continuous residence in Côte d'Ivoire
- Birth certificate
- Police / criminal record certificate (casier judiciaire) evidencing good character
- Evidence of your means of subsistence and integration in the country
Frequently asked questions
As a general rule, five years of continuous residence immediately before the application. The code allows this to be reduced in certain cases, and you must still be resident when the decree is granted.
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.