Citizenship & Identity

Use this page when you need a citizen record, identity confirmation, or help understanding who handles a request. Below you will find step-by-step guides, required documents, and practical checklists.

📋 Application Checklist

• Confirm the office you need before visiting — most citizenship matters begin at the Government Information Office (GIO)
• Bring original identity documents (birth certificate, passport, marriage certificate) plus clear photocopies
• Keep copies of every form and piece of correspondence you submit
• Verify office hours before travelling to Yaren — public service hours are typically 09:00–16:45 Mon–Fri
• Check processing times — some matters require referral to the Minister or Cabinet and can take several weeks
• Prepare supporting evidence — for registration or naturalisation, gather documents proving your connection to Nauru

🔢 Step-by-Step Application Guide

Naturalisation (Citizenship by Grant)

1. Check eligibility — you must have resided in Nauru for at least 7 years, be of good character, and intend to continue living in Nauru
2. Gather documents — valid passport, birth certificate, police clearance from your country of origin, proof of residence, two passport-sized photographs, and a written statement of reasons
3. Submit application — lodge your completed application form and all supporting documents at the Government Information Office in Yaren
4. Pay the application fee — fees are set by the Department of Justice and may vary; confirm the current amount at time of submission
5. Attend an interview — the Citizenship Committee may require an in-person interview to verify your application
6. Wait for decision — processing typically takes 3–6 months; you will be notified in writing
7. Take the Oath of Allegiance — if approved, you must attend a ceremony and swear allegiance to the Republic of Nauru
8. Collect your citizenship certificate — this document serves as proof of Nauruan citizenship

Birth Registration

1. Register within 42 days — births must be registered with the Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages within 6 weeks
2. Provide supporting documents — hospital birth notification, parents' identification (passports or national ID), and marriage certificate if applicable
3. Complete the registration form — available at the Registrar's office in Yaren
4. Receive the birth certificate — upon registration, a birth certificate is issued; request additional certified copies at time of registration

Replacement of Lost Identity Documents

1. File a police report — report the loss or theft to Yaren Police Station
2. Obtain a copy of the police report — you will need this to apply for replacements
3. Visit the GIO — bring the police report and any remaining identification
4. Complete the replacement form — specify which document(s) you need replaced
5. Pay the replacement fee — fees vary by document type
6. Collect your new document — processing time is typically 5–10 working days

💳 Costs & Processing Times

📝 What to Prepare Before You Go

If you are asking about a document or registration matter, bring the following:

• Full names and dates of birth of all individuals on the application
• Any prior paperwork or certificates you already hold
• A clear written or typed description of the issue or request
• Contact information (phone number and email) for follow-up
• Sufficient payment (cash or bank cheque) for any applicable fees

➡️ Next Steps