Dual Citizenship in Malaysia: A Comprehensive Guide

Overview of Dual Citizenship in Malaysia

Malaysia does not recognize dual citizenship. According to the Malaysian Constitution and the Malaysian Citizenship Act 1961, a Malaysian citizen who acquires citizenship of another country automatically loses their Malaysian citizenship. This policy is rooted in the belief that citizenship should entail a singular allegiance to one nation.

Relevant National Regulations

1. Malaysian Constitution: Article 24 of the Federal Constitution states that a citizen who voluntarily acquires the citizenship of another country shall cease to be a citizen of Malaysia.
2. Malaysian Citizenship Act 1961: This act outlines the conditions under which Malaysian citizenship can be granted, revoked, or lost. It explicitly states that dual citizenship is not permitted.

Procedures for Citizenship Acquisition

1. Naturalization: Foreigners wishing to become Malaysian citizens must go through a naturalization process. This includes:

   • Residency Requirement: Applicants must have resided in Malaysia for a minimum of 10 years.
   • Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the Malay language is required.
   • Good Character: Applicants must demonstrate good character and conduct.
   • Application Submission: Applications are submitted to the National Registration Department (Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara, JPN).

2. Loss of Citizenship: If a Malaysian citizen acquires foreign citizenship, they will automatically lose their Malaysian citizenship. There is no formal procedure to renounce Malaysian citizenship, as it is automatically revoked upon acquiring another nationality.

Costs Involved

• Application Fees: The fee for applying for Malaysian citizenship through naturalization is approximately RM 1,000 (subject to change). Additional costs may include fees for documentation, language tests, and other administrative expenses.
• Legal Fees: If you choose to engage legal assistance for the application process, fees may vary based on the complexity of your case.

Country-Specific Considerations

1. Children of Dual Citizens: If a Malaysian citizen has children who acquire foreign citizenship, those children may retain their Malaysian citizenship until they reach the age of 21. At that point, they must choose one citizenship.
2. Permanent Residency: Foreigners can apply for permanent residency in Malaysia, which allows them to live and work in the country without the need for a visa. However, this status does not confer citizenship and does not allow for dual citizenship.
3. Exceptions: Certain individuals, such as those with special skills or contributions to Malaysia, may be granted citizenship under special circumstances, but this does not change the general rule against dual citizenship.

Conclusion

In summary, Malaysia's stance on dual citizenship is clear: it is not permitted. Individuals seeking to become Malaysian citizens must be prepared to relinquish their original citizenship. It is advisable to consult with the National Registration Department or legal experts specializing in immigration law for the most current information and guidance tailored to your specific situation.