Published: December 9th, 2024, 06:16 am | Updated: January 7th, 2025, 09:30 am
|||What is Dual Citizenship?
Dual citizenship, also known as dual nationality, refers to the status of being an official citizen of two different countries simultaneously. In the United States, this means holding both a U.S. passport and a passport from another country. While not all countries allow dual citizenship, the U.S. has specific rules regarding dual nationality for its citizens. This blog aims to clarify the concept and provide you with the information needed to make informed decisions.
The Importance of Understanding Dual Citizenship
While many people may not like the idea of relinquishing their original passport, acquiring a “powerful” passport can offer numerous benefits. This highlights the importance of considering dual citizenship and understanding which countries allow it, and which ones strictly forbid holding a second passport. Several countries are more open to their citizens holding dual or multiple citizenships and have even adjusted their naturalization requirements to accommodate this.
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Does America allow Dual Citizenship?
Yes, the United States does permit dual citizenship and does not require naturalized U.S. citizens to relinquish their original nationality. While the U.S. Oath of Allegiance mentions renouncing “allegiance and fidelity” to other nations, U.S. immigration law does not specifically address dual citizenship. Additionally, the U.S. Supreme Court has affirmed that “a person may have and exercise the rights of nationality in two countries and be subject to the responsibilities of both.”
Which Countries Allow Dual Citizenship with the United States?
Many countries across the globe allow individuals to maintain their US citizenship when they become citizens and permit dual citizenship. Here is a US dual-citizenship countries list:
| Canada | United Kingdom | Australia |
| Germany | France | Italy |
| Ireland | Sweden | Switzerland |
| Israel | Mexico | India |
| Philippines | Greece | South Korea |
| Japan | New Zealand | Spain |
| South Africa | Belgium | Brazil |
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Who is Eligible for US Dual Citizenship?
To qualify for U.S. dual citizenship, a foreigner must first immigrate to the United States and then apply for permanent residency (Green Card). After meeting the requirements for permanent residency, the individual can apply for U.S. citizenship. Below are the main eligibility criteria to acquire U.S. dual citizenship:
- Minimum age of 18 years at the time of application.
- Permanent resident status for at least 3 or 5 years (depending on the type of Green Card).
- Continuous residence in the U.S. for at least 5 years before filing for U.S. citizenship.
- Not having been outside the United States for more than 30 months in the last 5 years.
- Residing in the state where the dual citizenship application is filed for at least 3 months.
- Passing an English language and civics test.
- Pledging to respect and support the U.S. Constitution.
- Demonstrating good moral character and willingness to take the Oath of Allegiance to the U.S.
What are the Document Requirements for US Dual Citizenship?
To prove your eligibility for the U.S. Dual Nationality, you need to present the following main documents:
- Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization).
- Copy of the front and back of your Green Card.
- Proof of payment of the N-400 filing and biometrics service fee.
- 2 identical photos with your name and Alien Number on the back if you are outside the U.S.
- Evidence of your spouse’s USA Citizenship and proof of your marriage with your U.S. Citizen spouse (if you are filing for Dual Citizenship USA based on marriage).
- Proof of ties to the United States if you left the U.S. for over 6 months after getting your Green Card.
- Criminal history, taxes, military service, or disability exemption request if such documents apply to your case.
What Are the Ways to Obtain US Dual Citizenship?
There are several ways to acquire U.S. citizenship. Here are the most common:
- Birthright: Born in the U.S. or to U.S. citizen parents abroad.
- Naturalization: Apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting residency and other requirements (e.g., 5 years as a permanent resident).
- Citizenship Through Parents: If at least one parent is a U.S. citizen, you may acquire citizenship by descent or derivation.
- Marriage: Marry a U.S. citizen, apply for a green card, and naturalize after 3 years.
- Military Service: Serve in the U.S. military for expedited naturalization.
- Dual Citizenship by Descent: If your parent is a U.S. citizen, you may qualify for U.S. citizenship, even if born abroad.
How to Apply for US Dual Citizenship?
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for U.S. citizenship, including:
- Minimum length of permanent residency (usually 5 years as a green card holder).
- Marriage to a U.S. citizen (if applying through marriage, you can apply after 3 years).
- English proficiency (unless exempt).
- Continuous physical presence in the U.S. for the required period.
- Fill Out Form N-400: Complete the Application for Naturalization (Form N-400).
- Submit Form and Pay Fees: Submit the N-400 form along with the $640 filing fee (note that additional biometrics fees may apply).
- Biometrics Screening: Attend a biometrics appointment, where fingerprints, photos, and signatures will be taken for background checks.
- Interview and Exams: Attend an interview with a USCIS officer. You will need to take the English and civics tests, unless you are exempt.
- Oath of Allegiance: If approved, attend a ceremony to take the Oath of Allegiance, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.
When to Apply for US Dual Citizenship?
The earliest date to apply for Dual American Citizenship can be 90 days prior to your 3rd or 5th anniversary as a Green Card holder.
How Long Does it Take to Get US Dual Citizenship?
The process of getting US Dual Citizenship might take between 18 and 24 months. Once you file the N400 form the processing starts and it will end by you taking your Oath of Allegiance. The naturalization can require up to 1.6 years, depending on the USCIS office that processes your application.
Benefits of US Dual Citizenship
- Access economic opportunities with access to larger job markets, business ventures, investment options, and favorable tax regimes in both countries.
- Build strong connections with two nations and their respective communities.
- Enjoy legal rights and protections from both countries, ensuring security during political instability.
- Access education in schools and universities in both nations, enhancing prospects and reducing tuition costs.
- Benefit from healthcare options in both countries, providing better choices and peace of mind.
Challenges of US Dual Citizenship
Dual citizenship also comes with challenges, despite its many benefits:
- Taxation: Dual citizens may face double taxation, as the USA requires its citizens to pay taxes regardless of where they live.
- Legal Obligations: Dual citizens must comply with the laws of both countries, which may include mandatory military service, jury duty, and other civic duties.
- Travel Restrictions: Dual citizens might encounter travel restrictions or heightened scrutiny when traveling between countries.
- Complexity: Managing the requirements and obligations of two citizenships can be complicated and may necessitate careful planning and legal assistance.
Obligations of Dual Citizens in the United States
- Paying tax: U.S. citizens are required to file and pay U.S. income and other taxes for life, even on income earned outside of the United States.
- Disclosing criminal history: U.S. citizens must inform U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of any violations, including immigration fraud, drug abuse, or domestic violence.
- Military service: Males aged between 18 and 26 who live in the U.S. or hold a green card must register with the Selective Service System and may be called to serve in case of war.
- Perform jury duty: All U.S. citizens must perform jury duty if summoned.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I have to renounce my citizenship to become an American citizen?
This depends on your country of origin. Some countries allow dual citizenship, while others require you to renounce your original citizenship to acquire a new one.
2. How many citizenships can you have?
The number of citizenships you can hold depends on the laws of each country. Some countries allow dual or multiple citizenships.
3. What is the EB-5 visa?
The US EB-5 visa is a U.S. immigration program that allows foreign investors to obtain permanent residency by making an investment in a U.S. business that creates jobs for Americans.
4. If I have dual citizenship, can I vote in both countries?
U.S. citizens with dual citizenship can vote in U.S. elections, as well as in the elections of the other country, if allowed by that country’s laws.
5. If I have dual citizenship with the U.S. and another country, which passport should I use when traveling?
As a U.S. citizen, you must use your American passport to enter and leave the U.S. For other countries, you may use whichever passport is required or convenient.
6. Can you have triple citizenship?
Similar to dual citizenship, the ability to hold triple citizenship depends on the laws of the countries involved.
7. Can a dual citizen be required to serve in the military of both countries?
Whether a dual citizen is required to serve in the military of both countries depends on each country’s laws regarding mandatory military service.
8. How does dual citizenship affect a child’s citizenship status?
If a country grants citizenship by birthright (such as the U.S.), a child born in that country to foreign parents may automatically acquire dual citizenship at birth.
