Pakistani nationality law

The primary law governing nationality of Pakistan is the Pakistan Citizenship Act, 1951, which came into force on 13 April 1951.

With few exceptions, all individuals born in the country are automatically citizens at birth. Foreign nationals may naturalise as Pakistani citizens after residing in the country for at least five years and showing proficiency in at least one vernacular language of Pakistan. Commonwealth citizens who make a substantial financial investment in the state are eligible for a facilitated naturalisation process.

Pakistan was previously ruled by the British Empire and local residents were British subjects and British protected persons. Although Pakistan gained independence in 1947 and Pakistanis no longer hold British nationality, they remain Commonwealth citizens under British law. When residing in the United Kingdom, Pakistani citizens are eligible to vote in UK elections and serve in public office there.