Understanding Dual Citizenship

Many foreign nationals wonder if they can retain their home country’s citizenship after becoming a U.S. citizen. This concept is known as dual citizenship. Whether it is permitted depends on both U.S. law and the laws of the individual’s home country.

The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) does not explicitly recognize dual citizenship as a formal immigration status. However, U.S. policy and court rulings have accepted that an individual can be a citizen of both the U.S. and another country simultaneously.

Dual Citizenship Under U.S. Law

During the naturalization process, applicants must take an oath of allegiance in which they renounce their ties to foreign governments. At first glance, this may seem like a requirement to give up prior citizenship, but in practice, the U.S. does not enforce renunciation unless an individual voluntarily chooses to give up their original nationality.

The U.S. State Department has clarified that becoming a U.S. citizen does not automatically revoke foreign citizenship. U.S. courts also support this interpretation, meaning:

• You do not need to formally renounce your home country’s citizenship after becoming a U.S. citizen.
• You can acquire another country’s citizenship after becoming a U.S. citizen without losing your U.S. citizenship.

Key Fact
Dual citizens must obey the laws of both countries and do not receive special treatment under U.S. law due to foreign nationality.

For instance:

• You must use a U.S. passport to exit and re-enter the U.S.
• You remain subject to U.S. laws, including tax obligations and other legal responsibilities.
• If you commit a crime in the U.S., your home country may not intervene on your behalf.

Dual Citizenship Under Foreign Laws

Not all countries allow dual citizenship. Some nations automatically revoke citizenship when a person naturalizes in another country. If your home country does not permit dual citizenship, you may lose your original nationality upon becoming a U.S. citizen.

To determine whether dual citizenship is allowed in your home country, you should:

• Contact your home country’s embassy or consulate for clarification.
• Check if you need to apply for permission to retain citizenship.
• Review any required legal steps before taking the U.S. naturalization oath.

Example: Some countries require their citizens to file special forms or obtain government approval before acquiring foreign nationality to avoid automatic revocation.

Important Consideration
Even if the U.S. allows dual citizenship, you may still lose your home country’s citizenship if that country does not recognize dual nationality.

Making the Decision

If retaining your original citizenship is important, you should:

• Consult an immigration attorney in both the U.S. and your home country.
• Compare the benefits of U.S. citizenship versus your original nationality.
• Determine whether maintaining dual citizenship aligns with your personal and legal interests.

For some individuals, losing home country citizenship may impact:

• Property rights
• Inheritance laws
• Business opportunities
• Visa-free travel

By understanding the legal implications, you can make an informed choice about U.S. naturalization and its effect on your citizenship status worldwide.