Burundian nationality law
Burundian nationality law is the body of law concerning who is a citizen of Burundi. The basis of Burundian nationality law is Loi no. 1-013 du 18 juillet 2000 portant reforme du Code de la nationalité.[1]
Burundian Citizenship Act | |
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Parliament of Burundi | |
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Enacted by | Government of Burundi |
Status: Current legislation |
Acquisition of Burundian citizenship
By birth
Birth in Burundi alone is not sufficient grounds for a right to Burundian citizenship, unless the parents are unknown. Burundi is considered to have weak protections against statelessness.[1]
By descent
A child born in wedlock to a Burundian citizen father is entitled to Burundian citizenship from birth regardless of the location of the birth. A child born out of wedlock to a Burundian citizen father may claim Burundian citizenship through an administrative process regardless of the location of the birth. A child born to a Burundian citizen mother but not a Burundian citizen father may claim Burundian citizenship through an administrative process only if the father is stateless or of unknown nationality, or the father does not claim the child.[1]
By marriage
The spouse of a male Burundian citizen automatically acquires Burundian citizenship. The same is not true of the spouse of a female Burundian citizen.[1]
By naturalisation
A foreign national may apply for Burundian citizenship upon meeting the following conditions:
- 10 years residence in Burundi (reduced to 5 years for the husband of a female Burundian citizen);
- Assimilation into Burundian society;
- Good moral character;
- No past convictions.
An exception to the residence requirement may be made for those who have performed an exceptional service to Burundi.[1]
Dual citizenship
As of 2000, Burundian citizens are permitted to hold dual citizenship.[1]
Loss of citizenship
Burundian citizenship acquired by birth cannot be involuntarily revoked. Burundian citizenship acquired by naturalisation may be revoked upon a finding the it was fraudulently acquired. Those who have their citizenship revoked have a right to challenge the revocation in court.[1]
References
- Manby, Bronwen. ""Citizenship Law in Africa: A Comparative Study."" (PDF). Open Society Institute, 2010. Retrieved 2013-06-30.