Citizenship by naturalisation
Adult foreigners who have held permanent residence in Bosnia and Herzegovina for at least three years may apply for naturalisation. Applicants must know a language of one of the constituent peoples, have stable income and usually give up their previous citizenship. Spouses of BiH citizens have an easier route after five years of marriage.
Life in Bosnia & Herzegovina
Money
3
Currency
Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark
BAM
Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark
Cost of living
44
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
Flat 10%
Income tax (national)
VAT 17%
Flat rate set by entity: 10% in the Federation of BiH and Brcko District, 8% in Republika Srpska.
Living
1
Happiness
#45 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
Your edge here Members
What gives you an edge here: passports, visas and permits you hold, work, study, language and family ties
Dual citizenship for you Members
Whether this country allows dual citizenship, and what it means for your own passports
Who it’s for
Long-term permanent residents and foreign spouses of BiH citizens.
Eligibility
Age and residence
At least 18 years old and approved permanent residence in BiH for at least three years before applying (Law on Citizenship, Article 9).
Language
Sufficient knowledge of the script and language of one of the constituent peoples of BiH (Article 9).
Record and security
No sentence of more than three years for intentional crimes in the 8 years before applying, no pending criminal proceedings, no active expulsion measure, and no threat to security (Article 9).
A sneak peek at what's inside
- Next requirementIncome and obligations
- Document checklistProof of permanent residence
- FeesNaturalisation fee
The full requirements are for members
Create an account and subscribe to see every requirement, the full document checklist, fees, steps, processing times and conditions, and how your profile compares.
- 3 more requirements
- 5 documents
- 1 fee
- 4 steps
- Processing times and conditions
Places to visit in Bosnia & Herzegovina
Attractions picked for you, based on your profile and interests.
Finding places for you…
Official sources
Other routes to Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Visit & tourismVisa-free stay and short-stay visa
- StudyTemporary residence for education
- Work permitsWork permit and temporary residence for work
- Permanent residencePermanent residence
- FamilyTemporary residence for family reunification
