Residence & citizenship
Zambian Zambian Citizenship by Registration / Naturalisation
Becoming a Zambian citizen after long-term residence, decided by the Citizenship Board of Zambia.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The prescribed citizenship fee (reported as K10,000) and the treatment of dual citizenship/renunciation should be confirmed against the current Citizenship of Zambia Act and the Ministry, as Zambia's constitutional position on dual citizenship changed in 2016; residence-period and age figures should also be reconfirmed on the official Ministry page.
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 Zambia government website before you apply.
On this page
- Official name
- Registration as a citizen (Citizenship Board of Zambia)
- Route type
- Citizenship / naturalisation
- Minimum age
- 21 years
- Residence requirement
- 10 years' continuous ordinary residence immediately before applying
- Language
- Adequate knowledge of English or a local indigenous language
Who it is for
- Long-term residents (10 years' continuous residence) aged 21 or over
- Applicants of sound mind with the required language knowledge
Requirements
- Completed citizenship form and questionnaire
- Recommendation letters from Zambian citizens
- Evidence of continuous ordinary residence
- Oath of allegiance on approval
How to apply
- Submit the citizenship application to the citizenship office
- Application is presented to the Citizenship Board of Zambia for decision
- Swear the oath of allegiance once approved
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.