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.
Overview
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.
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
Opening hours: 7:30 to 12:45, and 13:45 to 16:30, Monday to Friday, except public holidays.
How can I get permanent residency in Botswana?
Residence Permit Application
- Complete an application form for a residence permit.
- Submit the application form to any Immigration office and pay the applicable fees.
- Check the outcome from the office where you applied.
- If the application is successful, a residence permit sticker will be stamped on the passport.
How do I get dual citizenship in Botswana?
Go to any Immigration office at least three (3) months before turning twenty-one (21) to collect a letter as proof of dual citizenship. Submit documents issued by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship to the foreign country to renounce the foreign citizenship.
Can you buy a residency in Botswana?
Botswana offers several residencies through investment schemes for foreign investors. The eligibility of the applicants depends on a point-based system, developed by the government.
How long can foreigners stay in Botswana?
90 days
Foreign nationals are allowed to stay in Botswana for a period of 90 days without applying for a residence or work permit.