Bruneian nationality law

Brunei while still under a British protectorate, granted citizenship to a subject of the Sultan of Brunei the status of a national of Brunei, only if they were a member of an indigenous group of the Malay race, namely Belait, Bisayah, Brunei, Dayak, Dusun, Layan, Kelabit, Kedayan, Kenyah, Murut or Tutong.[1] The law excluded ethnic Chinese in Brunei whom the majority of, as of 2008, do not hold Bruneian citizenship.[2]

According to the amended nationality law of 1984, one method of acquiring Bruneian nationality is via jus sanguinis (Citizenship by right of blood). This means one may acquire citizenship regardless of whether they were born on Bruneian sovereign territory or not, under certain conditions. Citizenship is automatically conferred if the minor is a member of the aforementioned indigenous groups or, born overseas to a Bruneian father who registers the minors birth within 6 months at a Bruneian diplomatic mission. The father has to be in the service of the government of Brunei or employed by any company registered in Brunei to be eligible.[1]

A valid resident who has resided in Brunei for 25 years can apply for naturalization, provided they are:[1]

• Of good character.
• Not likely to become a charge on the state.
• Proficient in the Malay language.
• Intending to settle permanently in Brunei.

A resident born on Bruneian sovereign territory who is not a member of the aforementioned Malay groups, can apply for citizenship by registration, provided they are:[1]

• Over the age of 18.
• Resided in Brunei for 15 years immediately preceding the date of their application.
• Proficient in the Malay language.
• Of good character.

Brunei does not recognize dual citizenship and any citizen who obtains foreign citizenship loses their Bruneian citizenship.