Residence & citizenship
Tongan Citizenship by Naturalisation
Becoming a Tongan citizen through naturalisation, governed by the Nationality Act and Naturalization Regulations.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The 5-year residence requirement and the exact post-marriage qualifying period are drawn from summaries of the Nationality Act and must be verified against the current Act; any naturalisation fees are not stated and should be confirmed.
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 Tonga government website before you apply.
On this page
- Official name
- Naturalisation (Nationality Act; Naturalization Regulations)
- Route type
- Citizenship / naturalisation
- Residence requirement
- Ordinarily 5 years' residence for regular naturalisation
- Confirm against the current Nationality Act.
- Spouse route
- Right to citizenship a period after marriage to a Tongan citizen, subject to the Oath of Allegiance
- Exact qualifying period should be confirmed against the Act.
- Dual citizenship
- Permitted since 2007
Who it is for
- Long-term residents seeking Tongan citizenship
- Spouses of Tongan citizens
- Others recognised under the Nationality Act (e.g. certain adopted minors)
Requirements
- Good character
- Knowledge of the Tongan language
- Intention to reside in Tonga
- A qualifying period of lawful residence
- Taking the Oath of Allegiance (for the marriage route)
How to apply
- Apply under the Nationality Act and Naturalization Regulations; approval of regular naturalisation is at the discretion of the monarch
- Consult the Attorney General's Office legislation and the Immigration Division for the current procedure
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.