Cameroon now allows dual citizenship. Learn the legal process, required documents, and benefits of officially reclaiming your nationality while keeping your foreign passport.
For decades, Cameroonians who acquired another nationality were forced to choose. That changed with the 2018 nationality code revision. Today, Cameroon officially recognises dual citizenship. This is a game‑changer for the diaspora. Here is everything you need to know.
What Dual Citizenship Means for You
You can hold a Cameroonian passport alongside your French, Canadian, US, or other passport. You can vote in Cameroonian elections (if registered). You can own land and property without restriction (no need for a "foreigner" authorisation). You can pass citizenship to your children born abroad. You can travel to CEMAC countries more easily. And you keep all the rights and benefits of your other nationality.
Who Is Eligible?
Any person of Cameroonian origin who acquired another nationality by birth, naturalisation, or marriage. Also, foreign spouses of Cameroonians after a certain period of marriage (usually 5+ years). Children born abroad to at least one Cameroonian parent are automatically Cameroonian — you just need to declare their birth at the embassy.
Step‑by‑Step Application Process
1. Gather documents: Birth certificate (Cameroonian or foreign with proof of parentage), passport of your other nationality, proof of Cameroonian origin (parent's birth certificate, old Cameroonian passport), certificate of nationality (if you never had a Cameroonian passport), recent passport photos.
2. Submit application: At the Cameroonian embassy in your country of residence or directly at the Ministry of Justice in Yaoundé. Processing time: 6–12 months.
3. Receive decree: If approved, you receive a presidential decree of nationality reacquisition. Then you can apply for a Cameroonian passport.
4. Register at embassy: Once you have your new nationality certificate, register your dual status with the embassy.
Costs and Timeline
Embassy fees: approximately 150,000–300,000 CFA (~€230–460) depending on the country. Legal fees if using a representative: add 200,000–500,000 CFA. Start early — the process is slow but straightforward.
Why Bother?
Without dual citizenship, you are a foreigner in your own homeland — unable to vote, restricted in land ownership, and your children may face complications. With dual citizenship, you are fully Cameroonian again, with all the rights and responsibilities. Global Bush Travel can recommend notaries and lawyers who specialise in dual citizenship applications for the diaspora.
Reclaim your birthright. Apply for dual citizenship today.