Residence & citizenship
Malawian Citizenship by Naturalisation
The route to becoming a Malawian citizen after long-term residence in the country, granted under the Citizenship Act to those who meet its requirements.
Under review — check current rules
Important information
- Official name
- Malawi Citizenship (Citizenship Act CAP 15:01)
- Route type
- Naturalisation / registration
- Eligibility
- BRP holders (5+ years) and PRP holders
- Processing time
- Aimed at 40 working days
- Processing target stated by the Department
- Where to apply
- Immigration Headquarters or Regional Immigration Offices
- The Department does not recognise agents — applicants must come in person.
- Qualifying status
- Long-term permit holder
- The Department references holders of a Business Residence Permit (above 5 years) and Permanent Residence Permit holders as being able to apply.
- Fee
- Prescribed processing fee
- The prescribed processing fee must accompany the application; the amount is not published on the pages reviewed.
Who it is for
- Long-term residents holding a Business Residence Permit for five years or more
- Holders of a Permanent Residence Permit
- Those seeking to acquire Malawian nationality
How to apply
- Apply in person - the Department does not accept applications through agents
- Submit the citizenship application form with supporting documents and fees to Immigration Headquarters or a regional office
- Attend an interview and provide any additional documentation requested
- Await a decision, which the Department aims to issue within 40 working days
Requirements
Naturalisation is the route by which an alien (as defined by the Malawi Citizenship Act, CAP 15:01) may acquire Malawi citizenship. The Department references long-term permit holders — for example holders of a Business Residence Permit for above 5 years, and Permanent Residence Permit holders — as being able to apply. A minimum period of lawful residence in Malawi is required under the Citizenship Act before naturalisation (the exact number of years is set by the Act and should be confirmed with the Department).
During processing the applicant may be called for interviews and asked to submit further documents. Where an application is not successful, the applicant is free to appeal with valid reasons.
Documents you may need
- Certified copies of a valid passport.
- Certified copy of a valid permit (for example a Permanent Residence Permit or long-held Business Residence Permit).
- Other items listed on the naturalisation checklist provided by the Department.
Frequently asked questions
The Department of Immigration aims to process citizenship applications within forty working days. During that time you may be called for an interview or asked for further documents.
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.