Dual Nationality in Cameroon: What the law says (video)

Dual nationality or dual citizenship is a situation where a person is a citizen of two countries, that is they have legal rights and obligations towards both countries. One benefit of dual citizenship that is often cited is the ability of an individual to possess two passports. However, a potential drawback is the possibility of double taxation. The debate of whether dual nationality should be legalised in Cameroon has been ongoing for some time now. While some are of the opinion that people with divided loyalties could be dangerous for national progress, others insist that dual nationality, despite some challenges, will be good for national growth.

“Dual Nationality will boost economy, benefit Cameroonians home and abroad”

Barrister Chefu Joy

Cameroonian Nationality law expressly prohibits dual nationality. As per section 31(a) of Law No. 68/LF/3 of 11 June, 1968, any Cameroonian who willfully acquires or keeps a foreign nationality losses their Cameroonian nationality. This position of the law has been discouraging to some people of the Cameroonian diaspora who are interested in either returning home, or investing in the country. With globalization and the interconnectedness of countries and people, most countries today have flexible nationality laws, as they recognise and accept dual nationality.

As per section 31(a) of Law No. 68/LF/3 of 11 June, 1968, any Cameroonian who willfully acquires or keeps a foreign nationality losses their Cameroonian nationality.

Barrister Chefu Joy tells us more on the legal implications of dual nationality and Cameroons position as far as dual nationality is concerned.