How many Citizenships can you have ?

Published: August 10th, 2023, 05:55 am | Updated: December 28th, 2023, 10:59 am

In our increasingly interconnected world, the concept of citizenship has transcended the traditional boundaries of a single nation, giving rise to a thought-provoking question for many individuals: How many citizenships can one hold?

Dual citizenship, the status of holding two nationalities simultaneously, has gained popularity due to factors such as globalization, migration, and intercultural relationships. So, depending on your original nationality, some countries allow multiple citizenships, while others require the relinquishment of previous citizenships.

To determine the number of citizenships you should consider having, it is essential to diversify your citizenship portfolio and ensure comprehensive coverage. Generally, having four passports is considered an optimal approach, though, for some individuals, two or three may be sufficient. Take the time to define your preferences and focus on creating your desired passport portfolio.

Countries that allow multiple citizenships

Here is the complete roster of nations that permit their citizens to acquire dual citizenship:

Holding multiple citizenships can offer a plethora of advantages that go beyond the conventional confines of a single nationality. Some key benefits include:

• Global Mobility: Travel, work, and live freely in diverse countries.
• Enhanced Services: Access better social services and amenities.
• Business Opportunities: Seize diverse markets for entrepreneurial ventures.
• Political Empowerment: Participate in multiple nations’ political processes.
• Security and Stability: Find safety nets in politically stable countries.
• Cultural Richness: Embrace diverse heritage and identity.
• Asset Diversification: Optimize finances with investments in various countries.
• Family Reunification: Easier reunification with loved ones across borders.

Acquiring Citizenships in different ways

1. Citizenship by birth

The most common way to acquire citizenship is through birth, which can be divided into two categories:

• • By blood and descent: If a child’s parents are citizens of a particular state, the child automatically becomes a citizen of that state, regardless of where they are born. For example, a child born to Nigerian parents residing in the United States would be a Nigerian citizen.
  • By soil or place: When a child is born within the territorial boundaries of a state, they are automatically granted citizenship of that state, irrespective of their parent’s citizenship.

2. Citizenship by naturalization

Naturalization refers to the process of acquiring citizenship through formal legal procedures. There are four types of naturalization:

• • Direct naturalization: Individuals become citizens by fulfilling the specific legal requirements set by the state.
  • Derivative naturalization: Children become citizens through their parents’ direct naturalization.
  • Collective naturalization or incorporation of territory: A group of individuals in a defined territory gain citizenship through a treaty or statute, following the cession of that territory to a new state.
  • Formal registration of spouse: Some states require a spouse to renounce their birth citizenship before assuming their partner’s citizenship.

3. Descent

Through family connections, an individual may acquire citizenship either at birth or by registration, depending on their ancestors’ birthplace or citizenship status during their birth. However, this process often entails considerable time and bureaucracy. Waiting periods of up to three years for citizenship by descent from several European countries are not uncommon as government offices process the applications.

4. Marriage

In modern times, only a limited number of countries allow citizenship through marriage. However, many countries offer expedited citizenship processes for married couples. For instance, Portugal and Italy permit spouses of citizens to apply for citizenship after a few years, without requiring residence in the country.

5. Citizenship by Investment

The citizenship by investment industry offers several programs through which individuals can gain citizenship in exchange for making qualifying investments in specific countries. Some notable programs include:

• • Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program
  • Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program
  • Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program
  • Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program
  • Grenada Citizenship by Investment Program
  • Malta Citizenship by Investment Program
  • Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Program
  • Turkey Citizenship by Investment Program

Investors can explore these programs to find the one that best suits their needs and goals. They have the option to obtain multiple citizenships over time by utilizing different programs that align with their preferences and objectives. For instance, some might choose the Caribbean programs for speedy citizenship acquisition, while others might opt for European programs to secure residence in Europe.

6. Golden Visas

Golden Visas have gained immense popularity among wealthy individuals seeking residence through investment, particularly in Europe. Portugal’s Golden Visa program stands out as a particularly accessible option, allowing applicants to potentially acquire citizenship in just five years. This makes it an excellent supplementary choice for investors looking to expand their portfolio of passports.

Restricted Citizenship & What are Downsides of Acquiring Multiple Citizenships

While having multiple citizenships presents several advantages, it is essential to consider potential drawbacks, which are mostly contingent risks rather than unavoidable consequences:

• Potential for double taxation: One of the downsides of holding dual citizenship is the risk of double taxation. Depending on the specific country and its taxation laws, individuals may face taxation on foreign income or property, which could lead to financial complexities.
• Limited career options: Dual citizenship can also result in restrictions on certain career paths. In some countries, dual nationals may be ineligible to work in government bodies, and opportunities to pursue positions such as judges, ministers, or deputies may be hindered.
• Military obligations: Individuals with multiple citizenships who serve in the military of one state may face the possibility of losing their other passports. However, it is important to note that this scenario is quite rare and varies based on the laws of each country.

It is crucial to weigh these potential disadvantages against the advantages of dual citizenship before deciding, as each situation is unique and may require careful consideration of individual circumstances.

Renouncing Citizenship

Renouncing citizenship is the voluntary act of formally giving up one’s legal status as a citizen of a specific country. It involves a deliberate decision to relinquish the associated rights, privileges, and obligations. Once completed, the individual is no longer considered a citizen of that country.

There are various reasons why individuals may choose to renounce their citizenship. The decision to do so is deeply personal and can be influenced by a range of factors:

• Relocation: Some individuals may decide to renounce their citizenship when they permanently move to another country and acquire citizenship there. This could be due to work opportunities, family reasons, or personal preferences.
• Conflicting National Allegiances: Dual citizenship may lead to conflicting national obligations or loyalty concerns. In such cases, renunciation might be considered to avoid potential conflicts of interest.
• Taxation and Financial Considerations: Certain countries impose taxes on their citizens’ worldwide income, even if they reside abroad. To alleviate tax complexities, individuals may choose to renounce their citizenship.
• Legal and Political Reasons: In some instances, individuals might renounce their citizenship to comply with legal or political requirements in their current country of residence or the one they wish to adopt.

The process of renouncing citizenship varies from country to country but typically involves formal applications, interviews, and legal documentation. Once citizenship is renounced, individuals may face the following consequences:

• Loss of Rights and Benefits: Renunciants may lose access to certain rights and benefits associated with citizenship, such as voting privileges and social welfare programs.
• Travel Restrictions: Former citizens might encounter visa requirements or restrictions when attempting to visit their country of origin after renouncing citizenship.
• Difficulty in Reacquisition: Reacquiring citizenship after renunciation may be complex and time-consuming, involving a naturalization process like any other foreign applicant.
• National Security Considerations: Some countries may subject renunciants to national security reviews before accepting their renunciation, especially if they hold sensitive information or have engaged in certain activities.

Legal and Tax Obligations

Holding multiple citizenships can result in complex legal and tax obligations. Varying tax laws in different countries may lead to potential double taxation for individuals with dual or multiple citizenship. Navigating legal responsibilities, such as employment, property ownership, and social benefits, in each country can also be challenging. Seeking professional advice from experts familiar with international matters is essential to effectively manage these complexities. With proper planning and understanding of the implications of each citizenship, individuals can make informed decisions to comply with relevant laws and optimize their tax situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the maximum amount of citizenship one can hold?

In principle, there is no restriction on the number of citizenships an individual can possess, as long as it is permissible to hold multiple nationalities in all the relevant countries. The possibility of having dual or multiple nationalities hinges on the citizenship regulations of each respective nation to which the person belongs.

2. Does the US allow multiple citizenships?

U.S. dual nationals are bound by allegiance to both the United States and any foreign country they hold citizenship in. As dual nationals, they are obligated to comply with the laws of both countries, and each country retains the authority to enforce its own laws upon them.

3. Is there a difference between dual citizenship and multiple citizenship?

Though these terms are often used interchangeably, “dual” can encompass two or more citizenships. It is crucial to be fully aware of your current citizenship status and whether obtaining another citizenship requires renunciation of any existing ones

4. Can I regain citizenship in a country after renouncing it?

In many cases, it is possible to regain citizenship in a country after renouncing it. The process and eligibility criteria vary from country to country. Individuals seeking to regain citizenship should research the specific laws and requirements of the country they wish to reacquire citizenship in.