Residence & citizenship
Namibian Citizenship by Naturalisation
For acquiring Namibian citizenship after a long, continuous period of lawful ordinary residence.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The exact residency period for naturalisation and the qualifying marriage period (both commonly cited as 10 years, and recently amended) must be verified against the current Namibian Citizenship legislation and MHAISS guidance.
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 Namibia government website before you apply.
On this page
- Official name
- Namibian Citizenship by Naturalisation
- Route type
- Citizenship / naturalisation
- Residence requirement
- Long continuous period of lawful ordinary residence
- Commonly cited as at least 10 years; verify current requirement with MHAISS
- Marriage route
- Foreign spouse of a Namibian may apply after a qualifying period of marriage and residence
- Qualifying period must be confirmed against current law
Who it is for
- Long-term lawful residents who meet the ordinary-residence requirement
- Foreign spouses of Namibian citizens who meet the marriage/residence requirement
Requirements
- Evidence of the required continuous lawful ordinary residence in Namibia
- Good character and lawful conduct
- Marriage certificate and proof of a genuine subsisting marriage (marriage route)
- Valid identity and residence documentation
- Application submitted to MHAISS
What you can do
- Acquire full Namibian citizenship if granted
- Hold a Namibian passport and the rights of citizenship
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.