Estonian nationality law

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Estonian citizenship is based primarily on the principle of Jus sanguinis. In other words one usually acquires Estonian citizenship if a parent is an Estonian citizen, irrespective of place of birth. Citizenship may also be granted by naturalization. Naturalization requires a residency period, an examination in the Estonian language, examination results demonstrating familiarity with the Estonian Constitution, a demonstrated means of support, and an oath of loyalty. Whoever has graduated from Estonian-speaking school needs not pass further language tests to naturalize.

1 Undefined citizenship
2 See also
3 External links
4 References

[edit] Undefined citizenship

'Undefined citizenship' (Estonian: kodakondsuseta isik, Russian: негражданин) is a term used in Estonia to denote statelessness. It is applied to those migrants from former Soviet republics and their children, who were unable or unwilling to pursue any country's citizenship after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Russia being a successor state to the Soviet Union, all former USSR citizens qualified for natural-born citizenship of Russian Federation, available upon mere request, as provided by the law “On the RSFSR Citizenship” in force up to end of 2000.^[1]. Estonia's policy of requiring naturalisation of post-war immigrants was in part influenced by Russia's citizenship law and the desire to prevent dual citizenship.^[2]

Stateless persons who reside legally in Estonia can apply for an alien's passport. Estonian alien's passport allows free travel in Schengen treaty countries. ^[3]