Tanzania Citizenship by Birth (2025)

Learn about Tanzania's birth citizenship laws for 2025

What is Citizenship by Birth in Tanzania?

Tanzania follows the jus soli principle, meaning any child born on Tanzanian soil is automatically granted Tanzanian citizenship, regardless of their parents’ nationality, except for children of foreign diplomats.

Additionally, Tanzania recognizes jus sanguinis, allowing individuals born abroad to obtain Tanzanian citizenship if at least one parent is a Tanzanian citizen, provided the birth is registered with a Tanzanian embassy or consulate.

Tanzania Overview

Capital

Capital

Dodoma

Total Area

Total Area

947,303 km²

Population

Population

67.4M

Language

Language

Swahili, English

Currency

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Time Zone

Time Zone

UTC+3

Unlock Your Path to Tanzania Citizenship in 2025

Considering Tanzania as a new home or exploring citizenship options? Tanzania’s inclusive birth citizenship laws, rooted in jus soli and jus sanguinis principles, make it an attractive destination. Our Tanzania Citizenship by Birth Guide 2025 provides everything you need to know as of May 16, 2025.

Requirements for Tanzania Citizenship by Birth (2025)

To qualify for Tanzanian citizenship by birth, you must meet one of these criteria:

  • Born within Tanzania’s national territory, except for children of foreign diplomats.
  • Born abroad to at least one Tanzanian citizen parent, with the birth registered at a Tanzanian embassy or consulate.
  • Children of Tanzanian citizens serving abroad (e.g., diplomats) may qualify, provided registration is completed.

Tanzania Citizenship by Birth Step by Step

If you're eligible for Tanzanian citizenship by birth, here's the step-by-step process to apply. Follow these guidelines to ensure your application is successful.

1. Gather Required Documents

Before you apply, make sure you have the following documents:

  • Birth Certificate: A certified copy of your Tanzanian birth certificate issued by the Registration, Insolvency and Trusteeship Agency (RITA).
  • Parental Proof of Nationality: If applicable, proof that your parent(s) are Tanzanian citizens (e.g., Tanzanian birth certificate, passport, or national ID).
  • Valid Identification: Passport or government-issued ID.
  • Additional Supporting Documents: Any other documents required by RITA or the Tanzanian embassy/consulate.

2. Register the Birth

To confirm citizenship, you must register the birth with the appropriate Tanzanian authorities:

  • In Tanzania: Register the birth with the Registration, Insolvency and Trusteeship Agency (RITA). This automatically confirms citizenship for those born in Tanzania.
  • Outside Tanzania: Register the birth at the nearest Tanzanian embassy or consulate. Submit proof of Tanzanian parentage.

3. Submit Your Application

Complete the application forms provided by RITA or the embassy/consulate. Submit your documents for verification. Pay any required fees (see the Costs section below).

4. Wait for Processing

After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by the appropriate Tanzanian authorities. Processing times vary, typically taking a few weeks for in-Tanzania registrations and up to several months for consular registrations.

5. Receive Your Citizenship

Once approved, you will receive official recognition of your Tanzanian citizenship, typically in the form of a birth certificate (for those born in Tanzania) or a consular registration document (for those born abroad).

6. Costs of Application

Be aware of the following potential costs:

  • Application Fees: Birth registration fees vary by location; RITA fees are approximately TZS 3,500–10,000 for in-country registration, while consular fees may range from USD 20–50 as of 2025.
  • Document Fees: Costs for obtaining certified copies, notarization, or translations of documents.

Confirm the exact fees at the time of application by contacting RITA or the Tanzanian embassy/consulate.

7. Additional Tips

  • Start Early: Ensure all documents are complete and certified. Incomplete applications can delay processing.
  • Check for Updates: Citizenship laws can change. Verify current requirements with a Tanzanian embassy, consulate, or the Registration, Insolvency and Trusteeship Agency (RITA) before applying.
  • Consult a Professional: If unsure, consult a Tanzanian immigration lawyer or expert to navigate complex cases, especially for consular registrations.

Explore Tanzania: A Land of Natural Splendor

Discover Tanzania, an East African nation celebrated for its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture. From the bustling city of Dar es Salaam to the majestic Serengeti National Park and the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania offers a captivating blend of adventure and tranquility.

Home to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Stone Town, Tanzania boasts a cultural tapestry woven from Swahili, Arab, and indigenous influences. Savor dishes like ugali and nyama choma, experience the rhythms of taarab music, and join festivals like Sauti za Busara. Whether you’re climbing Kilimanjaro or relaxing on a spice island, Tanzania enchants all.

Map of Tanzania Visa Free

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can parents obtain Tanzanian citizenship through their child?

No, parents of a Tanzanian-born child do not automatically receive citizenship. They may apply for residency and later qualify for naturalization after five years of continuous residence in Tanzania, subject to additional requirements.

Does Tanzania allow dual citizenship?

Yes, Tanzania permits dual citizenship as of amendments made in 2002. Tanzanians by birth or naturalization can hold other nationalities without losing Tanzanian citizenship, provided the other country also allows dual citizenship.

How do I register a child born abroad with Tanzanian ancestry?

Parents must register the child at a Tanzanian embassy or consulate, providing proof of Tanzanian parentage, such as a parent’s Tanzanian birth certificate, passport, or national ID.

What documents are needed for birth registration in Tanzania?

A hospital birth certificate, parents’ identification (passport or Tanzanian ID), and proof of Tanzanian nationality (if applicable) are required for registration at the Tanzanian Civil Registry (RITA).

Official Tanzania Registration, Insolvency and Trusteeship Agency (RITA) Information

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