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
Parliament of Burundi
Enacted byGovernment 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
  1. Manby, Bronwen. ""Citizenship Law in Africa: A Comparative Study."" (PDF). Open Society Institute, 2010. Retrieved 2013-06-30.


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