Many people wonder whether they or their children qualify for Pakistani citizenship by birth. The rules may seem complex, but we will break them down in simple terms. If you or your parents have a connection to Pakistan, you might automatically become a citizen at birth.
What Does Pakistani Citizenship by Birth Mean?
Pakistani citizenship by birth means that a person becomes a citizen automatically if they meet certain conditions at the time of birth. The government grants this right under the Pakistan Citizenship Act, 1951.
Who Automatically Gets Pakistani Citizenship by Birth?
The law states that a person born in Pakistan qualifies for citizenship by birth in Pakistan if at least one parent is a Pakistani citizen. This rule applies regardless of where the child is born.
Additionally, if a child is born in Pakistan and their parents are unknown or stateless, the child still gets Pakistani nationality by birth. The government considers such children citizens to prevent statelessness.
Does Being Born in Pakistan Guarantee Citizenship?
No, simply being born in Pakistan does not always grant birthright citizenship Pakistan. The law requires at least one parent to be a Pakistani citizen. If both parents are foreign nationals, the child does not automatically become a citizen.
What If Parents Are Refugees or Foreigners?
If a child is born in Pakistan to foreign parents, they do not qualify for Pakistan citizenship for born children unless the parents naturalize later. However, refugees registered with the government may have different rules under international agreements.
Can Children of Pakistani Diaspora Claim Citizenship?
Yes, children born outside Pakistan to Pakistani parents can still claim Pakistani citizenship by birth. The parents must register the birth with the nearest Pakistani embassy or consulate to secure citizenship for the child.
What Documents Prove Pakistani Citizenship by Birth?
Parents must obtain a Birth Certificate from the local union council or NADRA. Later, they can apply for a Child Registration Certificate (CRC) or a Pakistani passport. These documents serve as proof of citizenship by birth in Pakistan.
What If Parents Are Overseas Pakistanis?
Overseas Pakistanis must register their child’s birth with the Pakistani embassy. The embassy issues a Pakistan Origin Card (POC) or directly registers the child as a citizen, ensuring they get Pakistani nationality by birth.
Does Dual Citizenship Affect Birthright Citizenship?
Pakistan allows dual citizenship, so a child with birthright citizenship Pakistan can also hold another nationality. However, they must follow Pakistani laws when using their citizenship rights.
What Are the Exceptions to Citizenship by Birth?
Children born to foreign diplomats in Pakistan do not get Pakistan citizenship for born children. Diplomatic immunity prevents automatic citizenship, even if the birth occurs on Pakistani soil.
How to Apply for Citizenship Proof for a Newborn?
Parents must follow these steps to confirm Pakistani citizenship by birth:
1. Obtain a birth certificate from the hospital or local authority.
2. Register the birth with NADRA for a Child Registration Certificate (CRC).
3. Apply for a Pakistani passport if needed.
What If a Child’s Citizenship Status Is Unclear?
If there is confusion about eligibility for citizenship by birth in Pakistan, parents should consult the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports or a legal expert. They can help clarify the child’s status under Pakistani law.
Can Adopted Children Get Citizenship by Birth?
No, adoption alone does not grant Pakistani nationality by birth. However, if the adoptive parents are Pakistani citizens, they can apply for the child’s naturalization later.
Conclusion: Who Qualifies for Pakistani Citizenship by Birth?
To summarize, Pakistani citizenship by birth applies if:
At least one parent is a Pakistani citizen at the time of birth.
The child is born in Pakistan to unknown or stateless parents.
Overseas Pakistanis register their child’s birth with an embassy.
If you meet these conditions, you or your child likely qualify for birthright citizenship Pakistan. Always verify with official sources to ensure compliance with the latest laws.
By understanding these rules, you can confidently determine eligibility for Pakistan citizenship for born children and take the necessary steps to secure citizenship rights.
Legal Assistance for Citizenship Matters
For professional legal guidance and support in immigration matters, you may contact:
Mr. Osama Khalil
Lawyer & Legal Consultant
📞 Phone: 0316-1829946
📧 Email: contact@osamakhalillaw.com | contact@khalilassociates.org