How can I become a Moroccan citizen so I can bring my wife back home with me to the U.S?

This is not as simple as it may first sound. The Moroccan government has strict controls on people becoming Moroccan. The main methods are as follows:

• By birth

This is covered by the Moroccan Nationality code, which was implemented on September 6, 1958. However, there are issues with this too.

• By descent

There is no automatic right to citizenship just by being born in Morocco.

Children of a Moroccan parent should receive citizenship, however, regardless of where the child is actually born.

• By marriage

A woman marrying a Moroccan national can apply for citizenship by declaration after two years marriage and residency.

• Naturalization method

Citizenship can be given after the five years of continuous residency in Morocco and full age and must be approved by a Cabinet decree. You need to have been resident for at least five years, but this is more likely to be ten or greater. A legitimate reason to become a Moroccan citizen must be cited, and several witnesses must be produced who can vouch for you and your integrity.

This is not a cheap or easy route: You will need a Moroccan lawyer and a good deal of cold hard cash.

• Dual Citizenship: Recognition and exceptions

Although this is recognized, there are exceptions. Government permission must be granted before a second citizenship can be granted. There is no default recognition of dual citizenship in Morocco.

There are additional problems for Americans too, since to assume a Moroccan citizenship you need to take an oath of allegiance to the state. This can be seen as treason within the United States.

In addition, being a Moroccan citizen in the current political climate may actually be restrictive. You need to think very carefully about this before you do anything with it.