Dual Citizenship USA: Complete Guide

By Nita Nicole Upadhye

Table of Contents

Dual citizenship refers to the status of an individual who holds the nationality of two different countries at the same time. Individuals with dual citizenship enjoy the same rights and have the same responsibilities as the citizens of each of the two nations.

Holding personal or professional ties to multiple countries affects various aspects of an individual’s life, from legal obligations to international travel. So while dual citizenship provides a range of benefits, including access to social services, educational opportunities, and the right to live and work in both countries, it also comes with responsibilities, such as fulfilling tax obligations and adhering to legal requirements in both nations. It’s important for dual citizens to be aware of the specific rules and regulations that apply to them in each country.

In this guide, explain the rules on holding dual nationality with the USA.

 

What is Dual Citizenship?

 

Dual citizenship occurs when an individual is recognized as a citizen under the laws of two different countries. This can happen through various means, such as birthright, descent, marriage, or naturalization.

The rules governing citizenship vary from country to country and it will be important to understand the specific rules of the countries where the individual may qualify as a citizen. Not all countries allow their citizens to hold dual citizenship – China and India, for example, where attained foreign citizenship leads to automatic loss of citizenship. Other countries operate restricted and highly selective eligibility criteria, such as Spain, which only permits dual nationality with selected countries.

For example, a child born in the United States to foreign parents may automatically acquire US citizenship by birth and citizenship of the parents’ country by descent. Similarly, a person who naturalizes as a citizen in a new country may retain their original citizenship if both countries’ laws allow it.

 

Is Dual Citizenship with the USA Allowed?

 

Prior to 1967, dual citizenship was not permitted in the United States. Under current US law, however, American citizens are allowed to hold dual nationality with another country.

The legal framework for dual citizenship in the United States is complex and governed by a combination of US laws and international agreements. However, while the United States allows dual citizenship, it does not actively encourage it. US law does not explicitly prohibit dual citizenship, and the US Supreme Court has upheld the rights of individuals to hold dual nationality.

US citizens granted citizenship in a foreign state are under no legal obligation under US law to renounce their US citizenship. However, while the US allows its citizens to hold dual nationality with other nations, whether you can have dual citizenship with the USA will depend on which country is your second nationality, as some countries do not permit dual nationality with the USA.

It is also important to note also that the USA follows the ‘master nationality’ rule, which means it recognizes only the US nationality of an individual, regardless of any other citizenship the individual may hold.

 

Which Countries Allow Dual Citizenship with the US?

 

Dual citizenship laws vary by country, and while the United States allows dual citizenship, not all countries permit their citizens to hold multiple nationalities. So while the US itself allows dual citizenship, there is no single, universally accepted list of countries permitting dual citizenship with the USA. This is because each country has its own laws regarding nationality and dual citizenship.

Since nations regularly amend their laws, you are advised to take legal guidance on your circumstances to confirm your position and ensure you are working to the most up-to-date rules.

The following is a list of some countries that generally allow dual citizenship with the USA, subject to national laws and rules which may impose conditions and restrictions on eligibility, along with some details about their specific regulations:

 

1. Canada and US Dual Citizenship 

Canada permits dual citizenship and does not require individuals to renounce their previous citizenship when they become Canadian citizens. Many Canadians hold dual citizenship with the USA.

 

2. United Kingdom and US Dual Citizenship 

The UK allows its citizens to hold dual citizenship. British citizens who acquire US citizenship do not need to renounce their British nationality.

 

3. Australia and US Dual Citizenship 

Australia permits dual citizenship, and Australians who become US citizens can retain their Australian citizenship.

 

4. Germany and US Dual Citizenship 

Germany allows dual citizenship in limited cases, such as when a child acquires both German and US citizenship at birth. However, adults who naturalize as US citizens may need to apply for special permission to retain their German citizenship.

 

5. France and US Dual Citizenship 

France allows dual citizenship. French citizens who acquire US citizenship can retain their French nationality.

 

6. Italy and US Dual Citizenship 

Italy permits dual citizenship, and Italians who become US citizens can keep their Italian citizenship. Italy also allows individuals to reclaim Italian citizenship if they lost it due to naturalization in another country.

 

7. Ireland and US Dual Citizenship 

Ireland allows dual citizenship, and Irish citizens who acquire US citizenship do not need to renounce their Irish nationality.

 

8. Sweden and US Dual Citizenship 

Sweden permits dual citizenship. Swedish citizens who become US citizens can retain their Swedish citizenship.

 

9. Switzerland and US Dual Citizenship 

Switzerland allows dual citizenship. Swiss citizens who acquire US citizenship can retain their Swiss nationality.

 

10. Israel and US Dual Citizenship 

Israel permits dual citizenship, and Israelis who become US citizens can retain their Israeli citizenship.

 

11. Mexico and US Dual Citizenship 

Mexico allows dual citizenship. Mexican citizens who acquire US citizenship can retain their Mexican nationality, but dual nationals must enter and leave Mexico using their Mexican passport.

 

12. India and US Dual Citizenship 

India does not allow full dual citizenship, but it offers the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status to Indian-origin individuals who have acquired foreign citizenship, including US citizenship. OCI cardholders enjoy many benefits similar to those of Indian citizens.

 

13. Philippines and US Dual Citizenship 

The Philippines allows dual citizenship for natural-born Filipinos who have become naturalized citizens of another country, including the USA, through Republic Act No. 9225 (Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003).

 

14. Greece and US Dual Citizenship 

Greece permits dual citizenship. Greek citizens who acquire US citizenship can retain their Greek nationality.

 

15. South Korea and US Dual Citizenship 

South Korea allows dual citizenship under specific circumstances, such as for individuals who acquire dual citizenship at birth. Naturalized citizens may retain their original citizenship if they meet certain conditions.

 

16. Japan and US Dual Citizenship 

Japan generally does not permit dual citizenship. However, children born with dual nationality must choose one citizenship before reaching the age of 22.

 

17. New Zealand and US Dual Citizenship 

New Zealand allows dual citizenship, and New Zealand citizens who become US citizens can retain their New Zealand nationality.

 

18. Spain and US Dual Citizenship 

Spain allows dual citizenship under specific agreements with certain Latin American countries, Portugal, and the Philippines. However, Spanish citizens who acquire US citizenship outside these agreements typically must renounce their Spanish citizenship.

 

19. South Africa and US Dual Citizenship 

South Africa allows dual citizenship but requires South African citizens to apply for retention of citizenship before acquiring a foreign nationality, such as US citizenship.

 

20. Belgium and US Dual Citizenship 

Belgium allows dual citizenship. Belgian citizens who acquire US citizenship can retain their Belgian nationality.

 

21. Brazil and US Dual Citizenship 

Brazil permits dual citizenship. Brazilian citizens who acquire US citizenship can retain their Brazilian nationality.

 

 

Benefits of US Dual Citizenship

 

For those who hold dual citizenship with the US, the benefits extend across various aspects of life, including economic opportunities, social privileges, legal rights, and access to essential services such as education and healthcare. If you travel frequently between the two countries, for example to visit relatives, you won’t need to apply for a visa to enter either country. You would also usually benefit from the rights to work, vote and own property in both countries.

 

a. Economic Benefits

Dual citizenship opens up a wider range of economic opportunities. Individuals can work and conduct business in both countries, giving them access to larger job markets and diverse economic environments. This can lead to increased employment prospects, higher earning potential, and the ability to benefit from favorable tax regimes and investment opportunities in both nations. Moreover, dual citizens can own property in both countries, allowing for more flexible financial planning and investment strategies.

 

b. Social Benefits

Socially, dual citizenship allows individuals to maintain and strengthen ties with both countries. This can enhance cultural identity and familial connections, as well as provide a sense of belonging in two different communities. Dual citizens can participate in cultural and social activities in both countries, fostering a rich and diverse personal life. Additionally, having family members in both countries can offer emotional support and a broader social network.

 

c. Legal Benefits

Legally, dual citizens enjoy the protection and rights afforded by both nations. This includes the right to vote, access to consular assistance while abroad, and the ability to petition for family members to join them in either country. Dual citizens can also benefit from legal rights such as owning property, participating in governmental programs, and enjoying the freedoms and protections guaranteed by the constitutions of both countries. Furthermore, in times of political instability or crisis in one country, dual citizenship can provide a safe haven in the other.

 

d. Education

One of the significant benefits of dual citizenship is access to educational opportunities in both countries. Dual citizens can attend schools, colleges, and universities in either nation, often at the same tuition rates as local students. This access can result in significant cost savings compared to international tuition rates. Additionally, dual citizens can benefit from scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs available to citizens, which can further reduce the cost of education. They also have the advantage of a broader choice of educational institutions, allowing them to select programs that best suit their academic and career goals.

 

e. Healthcare

Access to healthcare is another crucial benefit of dual citizenship. Dual citizens can receive medical treatment in both countries, giving them more options for high-quality healthcare services. This can be particularly beneficial if one country has specialized medical facilities or treatments not available in the other. Dual citizens can also take advantage of public healthcare systems, which can significantly reduce medical expenses. Having healthcare options in two countries provides a safety net and peace of mind, ensuring access to necessary medical care without geographical restrictions.

 

Issues and Considerations of US Citizenship

 

While dual citizenship offers numerous advantages, it can also present challenges and obligations, which may include:

 

a. Tax Obligations

The United States requires its citizens, including dual citizens, to report worldwide income and potentially pay taxes on that income, regardless of where they reside. Tax treaties between the US and other countries can help avoid double taxation.

 

b. Military Service

Some countries require mandatory military service. Dual citizens must comply with such obligations if they apply to them.

 

Legal Compliance

Dual citizens must adhere to the laws and regulations of both countries. This includes immigration laws, residency requirements, and other legal obligations.

 

Conflicting Laws

Dual citizens may face situations where the laws of one country conflict with those of the other. It is crucial to navigate these conflicts carefully to avoid legal complications.

 

Renunciation of Citizenship

In some cases, individuals may be required or choose to renounce one of their citizenships due to legal, practical, or personal reasons. Renunciation is a serious decision with significant implications and should be considered carefully.

 

How to Obtain US Citizenship

 

US citizens can acquire dual citizenship in several ways, including:

a. Birthright Citizenship: Children born in the United States are automatically granted US citizenship under the 14th Amendment to the Constitution. They may also acquire the citizenship of their parents’ country by descent, depending on that country’s laws.
b. Naturalization: Foreign nationals who become US citizens through the naturalization process can retain their original citizenship if their home country permits dual nationality.
c. Marriage: Individuals who marry a foreign national may acquire their spouse’s citizenship while retaining their US citizenship, subject to the laws of the spouse’s country.

 

This means dual citizenship can arise automatically rather than by election or choice of the individual.For example, a child born in a foreign country to US national parents may be both a US national and a national of the country of birth, or, an individual having one nationality at birth may naturalize at a later date in another country and become a dual national.

Acquiring dual citizenship typically involves several steps, including meeting eligibility requirements, completing necessary applications, and providing supporting documentation. The specific steps can vary based on the pathway chosen, such as birthright, naturalization, or marriage. The following are the primary pathways to obtain dual citizenship with the USA:

 

1.Birthright Citizenship

 

Birthright citizenship, also known as jus soli (right of the soil), automatically grants UScitizenship to individuals born on US soil, including the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and US territories. Children born abroad to US citizen parents may also acquire US citizenship through jus sanguinis (right of blood), provided certain conditions are met.

If born in the US, a birth certificate serves as proof of citizenship. If born outside the US to US citizen parents, you would need to obtain a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) from the nearest US embassy or consulate.

 

2. Naturalization Process

 

Naturalization is the process by which a non-US citizen voluntarily becomes a US citizen. To be eligible, applicants must meet specific requirements, including residency, good moral character, and knowledge of English and US civics.

You would generally be required to hold a Green Card for five years before making your naturalization application, but the eligibility requirements are far from straight forward and you should take advice on your circumstances to ascertain your eligibility and the most appropriate application route. The steps to naturalization include:

 

a. Permanent Residency: Obtain a Green Card and maintain lawful permanent resident status for the required period (usually 5 years, or 3 years if married to a US citizen).

b. Form N-400: Complete and submit Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) along with the required fee and supporting documents.

c. Biometrics Appointment: Attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints.

d. Interview and Civics Test: Attend an interview with USCIS, where you will take a civics test and answer questions about your application.

e. Oath of Allegiance: If approved, attend a naturalization ceremony to take the Oath of Allegiance and receive your Certificate of Naturalization.

 

US law cannot extend to determine recognition of an individual’s citizenship by another nation. While individuals naturalizing as US citizens are required to take an oath at their citizenship ceremony which includes a pledge to “renounce[s] and abjure[s] all allegiance and fidelity”, this does not extend to citizenship. Only if the law of the other country stipulates renunciation of citizenship will the individual have to oblige.

 

 

3.Marriage to a US Citizen

 

Spouses of US citizens can obtain dual citizenship through a streamlined naturalization process. The steps involve obtaining a Green Card through marriage, initially as a conditional resident for 2 years. To remove the temporary conditions, the applicant files Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) within 90 days before the conditional residency expires. After 3 years of marriage and continuous residence in the US, the applicant then files Form N-400 and follows the naturalization process, including the interview and civics test.

 

4. Other Pathways (e.g., Investment, Employment)

 

Other pathways to dual citizenship include investment and employment-based immigration include:

 

a. EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program: Invest at least $1.8 million (or $900,000 in a targeted employment area) in a new commercial enterprise that creates or preserves at least 10 full-time jobs for US workers. File Form I-526 (Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor) and, if approved, apply for conditional permanent residency. After two years, file Form I-829 to remove conditions and obtain permanent residency.

 

b. Employment-Based Green Cards: Secure a job offer from a US employer willing to sponsor you for a Green Card under categories such as EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3. Complete the necessary steps, including obtaining a Labor Certification (if required) and filing Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker).

 

How long does it take to get US Citizenship?

 

The path to US citizenship can vary greatly in length depending on a number of factors, including the route you are eligible under and the US post that is processing your application. There are also several stages to the naturalization process, including the time required for you to become eligible – typically 3-5 years with Green Card status – as well as the actual wait time for your naturalization to be processed by the authorities, which can be around 1.5 – 2 years, again depending on the circumstances.

To gauge your expected wait time, applicants are advised to contact professional US nationality lawyers for guidance on current processing times.

 

US Dual Citizenship for Children

 

Dual citizenship for children presents unique opportunities and challenges that differ from those experienced by adults. It involves special considerations related to their legal status, rights, and responsibilities in both countries of citizenship. Understanding these aspects can help parents and guardians navigate the complexities of raising a child with dual nationality.

Children with dual citizenship are subject to the laws and regulations of both countries, which can vary significantly. Here are some key considerations:

 

a. Automatic Citizenship by Birth

Many children acquire dual citizenship automatically at birth if they are born in a country that grants citizenship by jus soli (right of the soil) and have parents from a country that grants citizenship by jus sanguinis (right of blood). It’s important for parents to understand the citizenship laws of both countries to ensure proper documentation.

 

b. Documentation and Travel

Dual citizen children need valid passports from both countries to travel internationally. Parents should ensure that both passports are up-to-date and that the child’s personal information is consistent across all documents to avoid travel complications.

 

c. Conscription and Military Service

Some countries have mandatory military service requirements that may apply to dual citizens. Parents should be aware of any such obligations and plan accordingly as the child approaches the age of conscription.

 

d. Legal Compliance

Children with dual citizenship must comply with the legal requirements of both countries. This includes understanding the implications of each country’s laws on their daily lives and future responsibilities.

 

Dual citizen children enjoy the rights and bear the responsibilities of citizenship in both countries. Key rights and responsibilities include:

 

a. Citizenship Rights

Dual citizen children have the right to live, study, and work in both countries without the need for visas or permits. They can also participate in cultural and social activities, vote (when of age), and receive protection from both governments.

 

b. Education

Children with dual citizenship have access to the educational systems in both countries. They can benefit from public schooling without international student fees and are often eligible for scholarships and financial aid in both countries.

 

c. Healthcare

Dual citizen children can access healthcare services in both countries. This includes public healthcare systems, which can significantly reduce medical expenses. Parents should familiarize themselves with the healthcare benefits available in both countries.

 

d. Tax Obligations

Dual citizens may have tax obligations in both countries, depending on their income and the tax laws of each country. Parents should seek advice from tax professionals to ensure compliance with reporting requirements and to avoid double taxation.

 

US law cannot extend to determine recognition of an individual’s citizenship by another nation. While individuals naturalizing as US citizens are required to take an oath at their citizenship ceremony which includes a pledge to “renounce[s] and abjure[s] all allegiance and fidelity”, this does not extend to citizenship. Only if the law of the other country stipulates renunciation of citizenship will the individual have to oblige.As dual citizen children approach adulthood, they may be subject to military service requirements in one or both countries. Parents should plan ahead to address these obligations, which may include seeking exemptions or fulfilling service requirements.

 

Differences between Green Cards and US Citizenship

 

Green Card holders have lawful permanent residence status in the USA. This means you are not subject to immigration restrictions, although if you leave the US for longer than 12 months, you would generally need to make an application to re-enter the US. There are also no restrictions on the type of activities you can undertake while in the US – eg work, study, retire. You can also sponsor close family members for their own Green Cards.

However, Green Card holders do not have the full rights of US citizens, nor are they subject to the same responsibilities. In addition to the benefits of being a lawful permanent resident, US citizens also have the right to vote and access public funds, but they also have to meet US tax obligations and carry out jury or military service if summoned.

 

Renouncing US Dual Citizenship

 

If you have naturalized in a foreign country and do not wish to maintain dual citizenship with the US or the law in your country does not permit dual citizenship, you will need to follow the legal process of renunciation to evidence you are voluntarily giving up your US citizenship with full intent.

Renouncing US citizenship is a significant decision that carries considerable legal, financial, and personal implications. It is not a step to be taken lightly, and those considering it must thoroughly understand the consequences and requirements involved.

If you are considering renunciation, we provide specialist advice to help you understand the immigration ramifications and offer expert guidance through the formal renunciation process.

Key considerations for renouncing US dual citizenship include:

 

1. Legal Process and Formalities

 

Renouncing US citizenship involves a formal legal process. An individual must appear in person at a US embassy or consulate abroad and sign an oath of renunciation. The process includes:

 

a. Initial Appointment: Schedule an appointment at a US embassy or consulate. During this appointment, you will complete the necessary forms and undergo an interview with a consular officer.

b. Forms and Documentation: Complete Form DS-4079 (Request for Determination of Possible Loss of US Citizenship) and Form DS-4080 (Oath of Renunciation of the Nationality of the United States). Provide proof of citizenship, such as a US passport or naturalization certificate.

c. Fees: Pay the processing fee, which as of 2024, is $2,350. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of renunciation.

d. Final Confirmation: After the oath is administered and forms are submitted, the renunciation is reviewed and, if approved, a Certificate of Loss of Nationality is issued.

 

2. Tax Implications

 

Renouncing US citizenship can have significant tax consequences, particularly for those with substantial assets or income. As immigration attorneys we are not able to advise on the tax implications of renunciation, and recommend taking advice from a tax specialist. The following are general, initial considerations:

 

a. Exit Tax: The US imposes an exit tax on individuals deemed “covered expatriates.” A covered expatriate is someone who meets certain income or net worth thresholds or fails to certify compliance with US tax obligations for the five years preceding the renunciation. The exit tax is calculated based on the market value of the individual’s worldwide assets.

b. Final Tax Return: Renunciants must file a final tax return, including Form 8854 (Initial and Annual Expatriation Statement), to detail their financial situation and certify tax compliance.

c. Ongoing US Tax Obligations: Until the renunciation process is complete, the individual remains subject to US tax laws. It’s crucial to address any outstanding tax liabilities to avoid future complications.

 

3. Loss of Rights and Privileges

 

Renouncing US citizenship results in the loss of several rights and privileges. Former US citizens lose the right to travel to and from the US freely. They must apply for a visa to enter the country, subject to the same rules and scrutiny as other foreign nationals.

Renunciants also lose the right to vote in US federal, state, and local elections, and former US citizens no longer have access to consular assistance from US embassies and consulates abroad, which can be crucial in emergencies or legal issues.

 

4. Impact on Family Members

 

Renouncing US citizenship can affect family members, particularly children. If parents renounce their US citizenship, it does not automatically affect their children’s citizenship status. However, it may impact the family’s dynamics and legal standing in the US.

Renunciation can also complicate inheritance and estate planning, particularly if the renunciant has US citizen heirs. The US imposes special tax rules on transfers of assets from covered expatriates to US persons.

 

5. Emotional and Personal Considerations

 

The decision to renounce US citizenship often involves emotional and personal factors. For many, citizenship is tied to a sense of identity and belonging. Renouncing citizenship can create feelings of loss or disconnection from your US cultural and national roots.

Remember also that renunciation is a permanent decision. Once citizenship is renounced, it is very difficult, if not impossible, to regain. Potential renunciants should consider their long-term plans and the irrevocability of this action.

 

6. Alternatives to Renunciation

 

Before deciding to renounce US citizenship, consider alternative solutions. Evaluate if it is feasible to manage the responsibilities and obligations of dual citizenship, such as fulfilling tax requirements and maintaining compliance with US laws, or explore residency options in the other country of citizenship, which may offer similar benefits without the need to renounce US citizenship.

 

Need Assistance?

 

Dual citizenship provides a unique set of advantages that can enhance personal and professional life. By holding citizenship in both the USA and another country, individuals can enjoy the rights and privileges granted by both nations, such as voting in elections, owning property, and residing in either country without the need for special visas or permits. This dual status can also facilitate easier travel and broaden cultural experiences.

 

There may however also be disadvantages to holding dual citizenship, such as taxation liabilities within both countries and the associated administration demands, which cause many to pursue the option of renunciation to simply their affairs by retaining a single nationality.

 

Dual citizenship USA FAQs

 

Can you have dual citizenship with USA?

There are no rules prohibiting dual citizenship with the USA, and those who attaing US citizenship are not required to renounce their existing nationality. However, whether you can have dual citizenship with the USA will depend on which country is your second nationality, as some countries do not permit dual nationality with the USA.

 

Does US allow dual citizenship with UK?

Yes, it is possible to hold dual citizenship for the US and UK.

 

How can I get American citizenship from UK?

A UK national would need to apply to naturalize as a US citizen to prove they meet the US citizenship requirements, such as marriage to a US citizen and having a qualifying period of residency in the USA.

 

What are the benefits of dual citizenship in USA?

With US dual citizenship, you have the freedom to enter and live in the US without restriction and without having to apply for permission.

 

Can you travel to the US as a dual national?

US citizens enjoy the right to enter the US without immigration restrictions. If you have dual nationality in the US, you would need to enter the US as a US citizen, using your US passport.

 

What is dual citizenship?

Dual citizenship, also known as dual nationality, is the status of an individual who is legally recognized as a citizen of two countries simultaneously. This allows the person to hold the rights and responsibilities of citizenship in both nations.

 

Can US citizens hold dual citizenship?

The United States allows its citizens to hold dual citizenship. US law does not require a person to choose one nationality over another. However, individuals must comply with the laws of both countries and may face some legal and practical challenges.

 

How can a person obtain dual citizenship with the USA?

A person can obtain dual citizenship with the USA through several means, including birthright (being born in the US to foreign parents), naturalization (becoming a US citizen while retaining their original citizenship), marriage to a US citizen, or through descent (having US citizen parents).

 

What are the benefits of holding dual citizenship in the USA?

The benefits of dual citizenship include the ability to live and work in both countries, access to social services and healthcare, the right to vote in both nations, and the ability to own property in both countries. Dual citizens also enjoy legal protections and can travel freely between the two countries.

 

Are there any downsides to dual citizenship?

There can be downsides, such as the complexity of managing legal obligations in both countries, including taxation and military service. Dual citizens may also face challenges related to conflicting laws between the two countries and potential difficulties in diplomatic situations.

 

Do dual citizens have to pay taxes in both countries?

Dual citizens may be subject to taxation in both countries. The United States taxes its citizens on their worldwide income, regardless of where they live. However, tax treaties between the US and other countries can help prevent double taxation. It’s essential for dual citizens to consult with tax professionals to understand their obligations.

 

Can dual citizens travel freely between their two countries of citizenship?

Dual citizens can travel freely between their two countries of citizenship, typically using the passport of the country they are entering or leaving. This flexibility allows for more convenient and unrestricted travel.

 

Can a dual citizen be required to serve in the military of both countries?

It depends on the laws of the respective countries. Some countries have mandatory military service requirements, and dual citizens may be obligated to serve in both countries if those laws apply. However, some countries have agreements or exemptions for dual citizens to avoid dual military obligations.

 

How does dual citizenship affect a child’s citizenship status?

Children can automatically acquire dual citizenship at birth if they are born in a country that grants citizenship by birthright (like the US) and have parents who are citizens of another country. Parents should check the specific laws of both countries to understand the rights and responsibilities for their child.

 

Can dual citizenship be revoked?

Dual citizenship can be revoked if an individual violates the laws of either country related to nationality. For example, if a country requires citizens to renounce other nationalities and the individual fails to comply, their citizenship may be revoked. It’s important to stay informed about the legal requirements of both countries.

 

This article does not constitute direct legal advice and is for informational purposes only.

 

Author

Founder & Principal Attorney Nita Nicole Upadhye is a recognized leader in the field of US business immigration law, (The Legal 500, Chambers & Partners, Who's Who Legal and AILA) and an experienced and trusted advisor to large multinational corporates through to SMEs. She provides strategic immigration advice and specialist application support to corporations and professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, artists, actors and athletes from across the globe to meet their US-bound talent mobility needs.

Nita is an active public speaker, thought leader, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals.

This article does not constitute direct legal advice and is for informational purposes only.

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