Pay attention: these are the nationalities that Colombians can acquire

Dual nationality is the legal status that allows a person to be a citizen of two countries at the same time , with all the rights and obligations that this entails in both countries. In the case of Colombia, legislation allows its citizens to acquire the nationality of another country without losing their own, thus facilitating international mobility and the integration of citizens into different cultures and legal systems. But what other countries offer these benefits?

Colombia allows its citizens to acquire dual nationality, which means that a Colombian can obtain the citizenship of another country without losing their own. This policy is enshrined in the Colombian Constitution and laws, which recognize the plurality of identities and the global mobility of its citizens. Thus, those who acquire another nationality can maintain all the rights and responsibilities they have as citizens, including the right to vote and access public services.

Many countries, such as the United States, Spain, Mexico, Argentina, and several European and Latin American countries, allow dual nationality and offer various mechanisms for foreigners to become naturalized citizens. This facilitates access to social, employment, and educational benefits, in addition to strengthening the cultural connection with their country of origin.

It's important to note that each country establishes its own requirements for granting nationality, which may include residency, marriage, ancestry, or investment. However, Colombia does not require citizens to renounce Colombian nationality upon obtaining another, so its citizens can maintain a legal and cultural identity in two countries simultaneously.

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How can a foreigner obtain Colombian nationality?

For a foreigner to become a Colombian citizen, they must meet several requirements established by Colombian law. The main requirements for naturalization in the country are detailed below:

1. Continuous Residence in Colombia: The applicant must have resided in Colombia for a continuous period of five (5) years, counted from the date of issuance of the resident visa. This period may be reduced to two (2) years if the foreigner is married to a Colombian citizen, is the permanent partner of a Colombian citizen, or has Colombian children.

2. Formal application: The interested party must submit a written application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stating their desire to acquire Colombian nationality. This application must include personal information and, in some cases, additional documentation supporting the reasons for the request.

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3. Compliance with legal requirements: The applicant must have no criminal record in Colombia or their country of origin. They must also demonstrate appropriate civic behavior and not have been declared persona non grata under current diplomatic treaties.

4. Knowledge of the Colombian language and culture: The applicant must demonstrate knowledge of the Colombian Constitution, national history, Colombian geography, and Spanish. This is accomplished through an exam taken at the government office of the applicant's place of residence.