Botswana Nationality Law

Law is a set of rules that are created and enforceable by social or governmental institutions to regulate behavior, with its precise definition a matter of longstanding debate. It has been variously described as a science and as the art of justice.

The Certificate of Naturalization can be issued to investors, employees, students, immigrants, and dependents to give them the same rights as all citizens of Botswana.

Who is eligible?

All foreigners who have resided in Botswana for an aggregate period of not less than ten years and have resided in Botswana for a continuous period of twelve months immediately preceding the date of application.

How do I get this service?

In order to access this service, applicants must complete the following steps.

  • Complete Form L “Certificate for Naturalization” and submit it along with a police report form and fees to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (address provided below).
  • Acknowledgment of receipt of the application will be sent to the applicant through the mail.
  • After the application has been processed, the applicant will receive a letter in the mail inviting them for an interview.
  • If your application is successful, letters requesting you to renounce your foreign citizenship will be sent to you via mail. You will be issued a certificate of naturalization after you have renounced your foreign citizenship.
  • If your application is rejected a rejection letter will be sent to you via mail. You can re-apply if you wish. (there is no time restriction for re-submission).

What supporting documents are required?

Requirements applicable to all

  • Completed Certificate for Naturalization (Form L)
  • Two recent colored passport-size photos
  • Two certified copies of a valid Botswana residence permit
  • Completed set of police report forms
  • Certified copy of the birth certificate
  • Certified copy of marriage certificate and copy of spouse’s citizenship status (if applicable)
  • Certified copies of the applicant’s educational qualifications (if married, also provide spouse’s educational qualifications)
  • Copy of Curriculum Vitae

Additional Requirements for Student

  • Admission letter from the educational institution
  • Proof of payment of tuition

Additional Requirements for Dependents and Immigrants

Proof of parents’ citizenship status

Additional Requirements for Employees

  • Value of property owned.
  • Employment contract

Additional Requirements for Investors

Those operating businesses should state:

  • Name of business.
  • Location of business.
  • Service provided.
  • A number of employees hired.
  • A number of shares held.
  • Value of property owned or copy of lease agreement.
  • Type of trading license held.
  • Tax return for the past year.

How long will this service take?

Approximately one year.

How much does it cost?

The cost is BWP1000.00 for each applicant.

Where can I obtain this service?

All Regional Immigration Offices, District Immigration Offices, and Missions Abroad.

Department of Immigration and Citizenship

Ministry of Nationality, Immigration, and Gender Affairs

Tel. (+267) 361 1300

Toll-Free. 0800 600 777

Botswana Nationality Law

Opening hours: 7:30 to 12:45, and 13:45 to 16:30, Monday to Friday, except public holidays.

How do I become a citizen of Botswana?

Who is eligible? All foreigners who have resided in Botswana for an aggregate period of not less than ten years and have resided in Botswana for a continuous period of twelve months immediately preceding the date of application.

Does Botswana allow dual nationality?

You can also be on dual citizenship if you were born by foreign citizens who later acquired Botswana citizenship and registered you as a citizen of Botswana before attaining the age of twenty-one (21).

What is Botswana’s nationality?

Botswana

The Republic of Botswana Lefatshe la Botswana (Tswana)
National languageSetswana
Ethnic groups (2012)73% Tswana 18% Kalanga 2% San 7% Others (includes Kgalagadi, Indian, and White)
Religion (2021)79.1% Christianity —70.2% Protestantism —8.9% Other Christian 15.2% No religion 4.1% Badimo 1.4% Others 0.3% Unspecified