Bosnia and Herzegovina citizenship by marriage

Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) allows for the acquisition of citizenship through marriage, but the process and requirements can vary depending on the circumstances.

How to get citizenship by marriage in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Here are some key points regarding citizenship by marriage in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

  1. Residency Requirement. Generally, a foreign spouse married to a Bosnian citizen can apply for citizenship after five years of legal residence in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This period may be reduced to three years if the couple has children together.
  2. Legal Marriage. The marriage between the foreign spouse and the Bosnian citizen must be legally recognized in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It’s important to ensure that the marriage is registered with the relevant Bosnian authorities.
  3. Language and Integration Requirements. The applicant for citizenship by marriage may need to demonstrate a basic knowledge of the Bosnian, Croatian, or Serbian language, as well as knowledge of the country’s culture, history, and institutions. The specific language and integration requirements can vary between different regions within BiH.
  4. Criminal Record and Good Moral Character. Applicants are generally required to provide a certificate of good conduct (criminal record check) from their home country or countries of previous residence. They must also demonstrate good moral character and abide by Bosnian laws.
  5. Application Process. The application for citizenship by marriage in Bosnia and Herzegovina is typically submitted to the relevant authority, which is often the Ministry of Security or the Ministry of Civil Affairs, depending on the circumstances. The application will require various supporting documents, such as a marriage certificate, proof of residence, passport copies, and other relevant documentation.

Documentation and Application

When applying for Bosnian citizenship through marriage, you will need to gather the necessary documentation and submit an application. Here is a general overview of the required documents and the application process:

  1. Application Form. Obtain the application form for citizenship from the relevant Bosnian authority responsible for citizenship matters. This could be the Ministry of Security or the Ministry of Civil Affairs, depending on the region.
  2. Marriage Certificate.
  3. Proof of Residence.
  4. Passport and ID.
  5. Language and Integration Requirements. This could be done through language tests or other means of assessment. Additionally, you may be required to show knowledge of the country’s culture, history, and institutions.
  6. Certificate of Good Conduct. Obtain a certificate of good conduct (criminal record check) from your home country or countries of previous residence.
  7. Other Supporting Documents. Additional documents may be required, such as birth certificates, proof of income or financial stability, medical certificates, or any other documents deemed necessary by the authorities.

Once you have gathered all the required documentation, submit your application along with the supporting documents to the appropriate Bosnian authority responsible for citizenship matters. It’s important to ensure that all documents are properly translated and certified if necessary.

Dual Citizenship

Bosnia and Herzegovina allows dual citizenship, which means that individuals can hold citizenship of BiH along with another country. This provision enables individuals to maintain their Bosnian citizenship while acquiring the citizenship of another country, or vice versa.

FAQ

Can I acquire Bosnian citizenship through marriage to a Bosnian citizen?

Yes, it is possible to acquire Bosnian citizenship through marriage to a Bosnian citizen, provided you meet the necessary requirements.

How long do I need to be married to a Bosnian citizen before I can apply for citizenship?

Generally, you need to be married and have legal residence in Bosnia and Herzegovina for a period of five years before you can apply for citizenship. This period may be reduced to three years if you have children together.

Do I need to speak Bosnian, Croatian, or Serbian to apply for citizenship by marriage?

Language requirements can vary between different regions in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In some cases, basic language proficiency in Bosnian, Croatian, or Serbian may be required. It’s advisable to inquire with the relevant authorities to determine the specific language requirements for your situation.

Can I hold dual citizenship with Bosnia and Herzegovina if I acquire citizenship through marriage?

Yes, Bosnia and Herzegovina allows dual citizenship. You can hold Bosnian citizenship along with the citizenship of another country.

What documents do I need to provide when applying for citizenship by marriage?

The required documents may include your marriage certificate, proof of residence, passport copies, certificate of good conduct from your home country, and any additional documents requested by the authorities.

Can I retain my original citizenship after acquiring Bosnian citizenship through marriage?

Bosnia and Herzegovina allows dual citizenship, so in most cases, you can retain your original citizenship even after acquiring Bosnian citizenship.

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