Cambodian nationality law
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Law on Nationality of Cambodia (Cambodian Citizenship) determines who is a citizen of Cambodia under a 1996 nationality law.[1] Cambodian citizenship is typically acquired through ancestry (being born to at least one Khmer parent) or naturalization.[2] Citizenship can also be applied through business investments and donations.[2] Dual nationality is permitted, although dual nationals may be viewed as Cambodian citizens in court proceedings.[1]
Base on legal article of Khmer Mekong Law Group said that there are a few methods that foreigner can apply or claim Cambodian citizenship.
Dual-citizenship
In 2019, Reuters published an investigation that disclosed at least 8 relatives and high-ranking associates of then Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, including Lau Meng Khin, Choeung Sopheap, Neth Savoeun, and Aun Pornmoniroth, had acquired Cypriot citizenship through an investment scheme.[3][4] In response, Cypriot opposition parties demanded an investigation.[3] The program was disbanded in 2020. In October 2021, the Parliament of Cambodia passed constitutional amendments that ban the prime minister and presidents of the National Assembly, Senate, and Constitutional Council from being citizens of other countries.[5][6] The law was enacted in November 2021.[7]
Type of application of citizenship
Cambodia's nationality laws enable foreigners to apply Cambodian citizenship through business investments or donations to the Cambodian government's national budget.[8][2] This pathway has enabled qualified foreigners, including Angelina Jolie, to acquire Cambodian citizenship.[9][10]
Different types of applications for Cambodian citizenship
- By birth: If at least one of your parents is Cambodian, you're automatically a citizen. It doesn't matter where you were born.
- By investment: If you invest a big sum of money in Cambodia, you can become a citizen faster. It's not just about the money though, you need to meet some other requirements, like being healthy and having a valid passport.
- By marriage: If you marry a Cambodian citizen and your marriage lasts at least three years, you can become a citizen too. But you have to go through some legal steps.[11]
