Residence & citizenship
Tanzanian Citizenship by Naturalisation
The route to become a Tanzanian citizen after long-term lawful residence, under the Tanzania Citizenship Act.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Residence periods, US$1,500 fee and the renunciation requirement are summarised from the Citizenship Act and embassy guidance; confirm exact statutory wording and current fees before publishing.
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 Tanzania government website before you apply.
On this page
- Official name
- Citizenship by Naturalisation
- Route type
- Naturalisation / citizenship
- Residence requirement
- 12 continuous months immediately before applying, plus lawful residence for at least 7 of the preceding 10 years
- As summarised from the Tanzania Citizenship Act; verify exact wording
- Language
- Adequate knowledge of Kiswahili or English
- Fee
- US$1,500 (non-refundable, indicative)
- From official/embassy guidance; confirm current fee
- Dual citizenship
- Previous citizenship generally must be renounced
Who it is for
- Long-term lawful residents who intend to reside in Tanzania permanently
- Applicants of good character who can contribute to Tanzania's development
- Those meeting the residence and language requirements of the Citizenship Act
Requirements
- Meet the residence periods (12 continuous months, and 7 of the last 10 years)
- Adequate knowledge of Kiswahili or English
- Good character and intention to reside permanently in Tanzania
- Publish a notice of intent in two consecutive issues of a daily newspaper
- Renounce previous citizenship on grant
How to apply
- Complete the prescribed forms and submit to the Ward Executive Secretary (or Sheha in Zanzibar) with the fee
- Publish the required newspaper notices of intent
- The application is scrutinised by District/Regional Immigration Officers and security committees
- The Commissioner General recommends to the Minister, who makes the final decision
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.