Residence & citizenship
Marshallese Citizenship by Naturalisation
For those acquiring Marshallese citizenship by naturalisation after long-term residence, as provided for by the Nitijela, the national parliament.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The exact residence period (commonly cited as ten years), the annual cap on naturalisations, the civics/language tests and renunciation rules are drawn from the Constitution and secondary summaries of the citizenship Act; verify precise thresholds against the current Marshall Islands Citizenship Act. The RMI Division of Immigration site does not publish naturalisation details.
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 Marshall Islands government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Naturalisation (Marshallese citizenship)
- Route type
- Citizenship / naturalisation
- Legal basis
- Constitution and citizenship Act (Nitijela)
- Residence required
- Long-term ordinary residence (commonly cited as around 10 years)
- Verify the exact statutory period in the current Citizenship Act.
- Annual cap
- Limited number of naturalisations per year (reported as up to 10)
- Reported figure; confirm against the Citizenship Act.
- Dual citizenship
- Generally not recognised; prior citizenship must be renounced
Who it is for
- Long-term residents of the Marshall Islands seeking to become citizens.
Requirements
- Long-term ordinary residence in the Marshall Islands.
- Good character and familiarity with the Marshallese language, customs and traditions.
- Being financially self-supporting.
- Renunciation of previous citizenship (dual citizenship generally not recognised).
How to apply
- Apply under the citizenship provisions administered by the relevant RMI authority (Attorney-General's Office / Cabinet).
- Meet the statutory residence and eligibility conditions before applying.
Documents you may need
- Evidence of long-term ordinary residence in the Marshall Islands.
- Evidence of good character.
- Evidence of ability to speak and understand Marshallese and familiarity with customs and traditions.
- Evidence of a viable means of support (being financially self-supporting).
- Formal renunciation of previous citizenship (dual citizenship is generally not recognised).
Frequently asked questions
Generally no. The Marshall Islands does not usually recognise dual citizenship, so naturalisation ordinarily requires renouncing your previous citizenship. Applicants must also meet the residence, good-character, language and self-support conditions set in the Citizenship Act.
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.