All persons born in Sri Lanka receive citizenship by descent if at least one parent is a citizen. Children born overseas to a Sri Lankan parent may acquire citizenship by descent if they are registered at a Sri Lankan diplomatic mission. Foreign nationals with Sri Lankan ancestry or are married to a Sri Lankan spouse may become citizens by registration. All other foreigners who hold a residence visa valid for at least five years and have been accepted by the government into the Resident Guest Scheme may also acquire citizenship by registration. Sri Lankan citizenship can be voluntarily relinquished by making a declaration of renunciation. Sri Lankan citizens who become citizens of another country automatically have their citizenship revoked unless they first obtain government permission allowing them to retain Sri Lankan citizenship. Otherwise, former Sri Lankans may subsequently apply for citizenship resumption. Dual citizens are prohibited from standing for office in
Parliament and are ineligible to become
President. == References ==