Article 22 of the Saudi Arabian Nationality Law

This article deals with the case of the naturalized person who obtained Saudi nationality in an improper way. It provides for withdrawing nationality from him:

• By order of the Prime Minister, on the proposal of the Minister of Interior.
• At any time, without being bound by a particular period after naturalization.
• If it is established that he obtained it on the basis of one of the following:
  • False statements.
  • Fraud.
  • Error.
  • Forgery or falsification in the witnesses, documents, papers or data he submitted to enter the nationality.

Note that the text mentions "error" alongside fraud and forgery, so it is not limited to cases of bad faith; the criterion is that it is established that obtaining nationality was based on that.

This article differs from Article 21, which allows withdrawal by decision of the Council of Ministers only within the ten years following naturalization, and in cases of a hadd penalty or imprisonment for more than a year for an act affecting honesty or honor, or disturbing security. Article 23 shows that withdrawal of nationality results in its ceasing for its holder and for those who acquired it with him by dependency, with the possibility of granting it to one who acquired it by dependency if his good character is established and there is no obstacle, counting his past period for him.

This wording was issued by Royal Decree No. (M/4) dated 4/6/1389 AH. Anyone facing a situation of this kind is advised to consult a lawyer specializing in nationality and administrative cases.