Citizenship information is based on the Nationality Law of the People's Republic of China (PRC), dated September 10, 1980. On December 20, 1999, Macao became a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the PRC. The citizenship rules applicable to Macao are defined in the Interpretations of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress on the Implementation of the Nationality Law of the People's Republic of China in the Macao Special Administrative Region, dated December 20, 1999.
Citizenship of China can be acquired in several ways: by birth, by descent, or by naturalization.
Citizenship by Birth
Birth within the territory of the PRC does not automatically confer citizenship. The only exception applies to a child born to unknown or stateless parents.
Citizenship by Descent
A child with at least one Chinese parent is considered a citizen of China, regardless of the country of birth. However, a child born abroad to parents who have settled abroad and who has acquired the nationality of that country is not regarded as a Chinese citizen.
Residents of Macao of Chinese descent who were born in China (including Macao), as well as other persons of Chinese nationality, are recognized as Chinese citizens, even if they hold Portuguese travel documents or identity cards. Residents of the Macao SAR who have both Chinese and Portuguese ancestry may, according to their personal choice, select either Chinese or Portuguese nationality. Choosing one nationality means renouncing the other.
Citizenship by Naturalization
Citizenship of China may be granted under one of the following conditions: the person has close relatives living in China, has settled in China, or has other legitimate reasons.
Restoration of Chinese Nationality
Foreign nationals who previously held Chinese nationality may apply for its restoration if they have legitimate reasons. Once approved, they may not retain their foreign citizenship, as dual nationality is not recognized in China.
Loss of Citizenship
Voluntary renunciation of Chinese citizenship is permitted by law under certain conditions, such as having close relatives who are foreign nationals, having settled abroad, or having other legitimate reasons. However, state officials and military personnel are not allowed to renounce their Chinese citizenship.
Professional Services
The information about China’s Nationality Law is provided for reference only. Elma Capital does not offer services related to immigration to China or the acquisition of Chinese citizenship. However, if you reside in China and are interested in obtaining residence by investment or acquiring another citizenship, please contact us today.