Sorry, you need to enable JavaScript to visit this website.
Skip to main content
Overview

The Certificate of Naturalization can be issued to investors, employees, students, immigrants and dependents to give them the same rights as all citizens of Botswana.

Who is eligible?

All foreigners who have resided in Botswana for an aggregate period of not less than ten years and have resided in Botswana for a continuous period of twelve months immediately preceding the date of application.

How do I get this service?

In order to access this service, applicants must complete the following steps.

  • Complete Form L “Certificate for Naturalization” and submit it along with a police report form and fees to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (address provided below).
  • Acknowledgement of receipt of application will be sent to the applicant through mail.
  • After the application has been processed, the applicant will receive a letter in the mail inviting them for an interview.
  • If your application is successful, letters requesting you to renounce your foreign citizenship will be sent to you via mail. You will be issued with a certificate of naturalization after you have renounced your foreign citizenship.
  • If your application is rejected a rejection letter will be sent to you via mail. You can re-apply if you wish. (there is no time restriction for re-submission).
What supporting documents are required?

Requirements applicable to all

  • Completed Certificate for Naturalization (Form L)
  • Two recent coloured passport size photos
  • Two certified copies of valid Botswana residence permit
  • Completed set of police report forms
  • Certified copy of birth certificate
  • Certified copy of marriage certificate and copy of spouse’s citizenship status (if applicable)
  • Certified copies of applicant’s educational qualifications (if married, also provide spouse’s educational qualifications)
  • Copy of Curriculum Vitae

Additional Requirements for Student

  • Admission letter from the educational institution
  • Proof of payment of tuition

Additional Requirements for Dependents and Immigrants

Proof of parents’ citizenship status

Additional Requirements for Employees

  • Value of property owned.
  • Employment contract

Additional Requirements for Investors

Those operating businesses should state:

  • Name of business.
  • Location of business.
  • Service provided.
  • Number of employees hired.
  • Number of shares held.
  • Value of property owned or copy of lease agreement.
  • Type of trading license held.
  • Tax return for the past year.
How long will this service take?

Approximately one year.

Where can I obtain this service?

All Regional Immigration Offices, District Immigration Offices and Missions Abroad.

Department of Immigration and Citizenship

Ministry of Nationality, Immigration and Gender Affairs

Tel. (+267) 361 1300

Toll Free. 0800 600 777

Opening hours: 7:30 to 12:45, and 13:45 to 16:30, Monday to Friday, except public holidays.

 

News & Updates

Botswana has reaffirmed its strong commitment to democratic governance and global cooperation during the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Annual Regional Planning Conference dinner
Mar 10, 2026
Govt reaffirms commitment to democracy and global cooperation
The Vice President, Ndaba Gaolathe
Mar 06, 2026
Vice President pledges support to Dichaba group operations
President Duma Boko and President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia
Feb 25, 2026
BOTSWANA & ZAMBIA TAKE THE LEAD IN AFRICA’S INTEGRATION
Botswana, Zambia establish the Kazungula Bridge Authority
Feb 23, 2026
BOTSWANA, ZAMBIA SIGN LANDMARK DEAL TO FORMALISE KAZUNGULA BRIDGE AUTHORITY
VP Tours BVI as FMD threat looms
Feb 18, 2026
VP Tours BVI as FMD threat looms
Minister Mohwasa
Feb 12, 2026
Minister Mohwasa Vows Fiscal Discipline and Private-Sector Driven Growth
Mothusa Tautona, Rre Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolathe
Feb 07, 2026
TSIBOSO KA TLHAGOGO YA MALWETSI A LERUO E KA THUSA GO BABALELA ITSHOLELO
Botswana Strengthens Diplomatic ties, with Serbia, the UAE, Antigua and Barbuda
Feb 03, 2026
Botswana Strengthens Diplomatic ties, with Serbia, UAE, Antigua & Barbuda
Trade Unions as Strategic Partners in Constitutional Court Consultations
Jan 29, 2026
Trade Unions as Strategic Partners in Constitutional Court Consultations
Faith leaders hailed as key partners in building Constitutional court
Jan 29, 2026
Faith leaders hailed as key partners in building Constitutional court
President Boko engages Dikgosi on Health reforms
Jan 29, 2026
President Boko engages Dikgosi on Health reforms
VP calls for Economic Diversification
Jan 25, 2026
VP calls for Economic Diversification
VP Officially launches city Tourism Initiative
Jan 24, 2026
VP Officially launches city Tourism Initiative
Tourism should enjoy our country - Minister Mmolotsi
Jan 24, 2026
Tourism should enjoy our country - Minister Mmolotsi
Ensuring public accountability and discipline in the civil service
Jan 24, 2026
Ensuring public accountability and discipline in the civil service