Key Takeaways

  • Dual citizenship offers visa-free travel, expanded work rights, and access to social services in two countries.
  • It enables broader business opportunities, educational access, and simplified family sponsorship.
  • Holding two passports provides greater mobility, property ownership rights, and lifestyle flexibility.
  • U.S. dual citizens must meet tax, military, and legal obligations in both countries, which can be complex.
  • Dual citizenship can aid in retirement planning, asset diversification, and crisis relocation.
  • Not all countries recognize dual nationality; legal advice may be necessary to navigate conflicts of law.

Many people would consider becoming citizens of another country besides their birth country. Becoming a citizen of two states means simultaneously means you share the rights and responsibilities of citizens in the individual countries. Nonetheless, not all countries permit dual citizenship with the United States. If you are considering dual citizenship, understand the application process and requirements.

What is Dual Citizenship?

Also called dual nationality, dual citizenship refers to being a citizen of more than one country simultaneously. You will be legally recognized in two or more countries simultaneously if you are a dual national. Even so, there is no definitive definition of the term dual citizenship because it's interpreted differently in different countries.

What Are the Benefits of Dual Citizenship?

People apply for dual citizenship for various reasons. The benefits of having dual nationality include:

Visa-Free Travel and Work

A leading reason people apply for dual citizenship is to get a so-called "stronger passport" that permits them to travel visa-free to more countries. For instance, having an American passport in 2023 can enable you to travel visa-free to 185 countries and territories.

Unlike a foreign national, a dual national does not require a visa or permit to visit the countries where they hold citizenship. They can stay for as long as they wish and have a right to work and do business in the two nations. The same cannot be said of those with foreign citizenship. Such individuals must undergo the lengthy visa and work permit application process as required by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services department.

Access to Social Services

Having dual citizenship means you can access social services and other benefits and privileges each country offers to its citizens. For instance, if healthcare is free in one of the countries you're a citizen of, you can travel there for medical treatment.

Applicants can access affordable schooling and other perks just like domestic students, even if they are not permanent residents. With dual nationality, you can choose the country you want to live in and enjoy the best quality of life. You won't have to worry about your residency status in the foreign state.

Family Sponsorship

You may be able to sponsor family members to apply for dual citizenship. After acquiring American citizenship, for instance, you can sponsor your spouse to apply for a Green card through marriage. Your child automatically becomes a US citizen even if they were born in a foreign country.

Having Two Passports

Besides the freedom to travel more easily, being a dual national means you can carry passports issued by both countries. Suppose you have Mexican nationality and acquire American citizenship after marrying a US citizen. It will be easier to travel back and forth between the two countries without applying for a visa or getting questioned about the purpose of your trips. The same cannot be said of someone who only has Salvadoran citizenship. The two passports guarantee the right of entry to both countries, which can be beneficial if you need to travel frequently.

Property Ownership

Some countries restrict property ownership to citizens. Thus, it's impossible for those born in a foreign country to invest without going through legal hurdles. Dual citizenship enables you to purchase and own property in both countries. You will skirt laws that typically bar non-nationals from buying or owning property. Property ownership is an excellent option if you shuttle between the two countries frequently and want to settle in both. Dual citizenship makes it easier to own property in both countries.

Personal Wellbeing

Perhaps you are tired of the hustle and bustle in your country of origin and want to move to a quieter place. Second citizenship will be a convenient getaway to the life you desire, far removed from the lifestyle you're used to. It enables you to turn your dream destination into your home without renouncing the citizenship of your home country.

Additional Advantages of Dual Citizenship

Beyond convenience and access, the benefits of dual citizenship extend to strategic and long-term personal planning. Here are additional perks that dual nationals may enjoy:

  • Educational Opportunities Abroad:
    Dual citizens may access local universities in either country at resident tuition rates, opening doors to high-quality, affordable education.
  • Inheritance and Estate Planning Benefits:
    Some countries impose restrictions or higher tax burdens on foreign heirs. As a dual citizen, you may avoid such complications and simplify estate transfers.
  • Retirement Abroad:
    Dual citizenship provides more flexibility in choosing a retirement destination. You may benefit from pension portability and healthcare access in both nations, making it easier to retire in a country with lower living costs or better climate.
  • Political and Civic Participation:
    Dual citizens can actively participate in civic life in both countries. This includes voting in local and national elections and, in some cases, running for public office.
  • Global Business Expansion:
    Entrepreneurs often benefit from dual citizenship through the ability to establish businesses in either country without facing foreign ownership restrictions. This can also aid in securing favorable tax treatment or access to local grants.
  • Emergency and Crisis Flexibility:
    In geopolitical crises, natural disasters, or political unrest, dual nationals have the option of relocating quickly to their second country. Having two passports provides critical security and peace of mind during uncertain times.
  • Cultural and Identity Enrichment:
    Holding dual nationality allows individuals to maintain strong cultural ties to both countries. This is particularly beneficial for children raised in bicultural households, helping them embrace both heritages.

How to Get Dual Citizenship in the United States

There are several ways to acquire dual nationality in the United States and the corresponding citizenship documents. These include:

Birth

Arguably, this is the easiest way to become a dual citizen. The United States allows non-resident individuals to apply for dual nationality if their parents were born in the US. So, if you are already a citizen of another country, yet your parents were born in the United States, you can apply for US citizenship.

Marriage

The United States is among the countries that grant fast-track citizenship to anyone married to a US citizen. In this case, you'll first get permanent residency status, which speeds up the citizenship application process. After acquiring US citizenship via marriage, you can still retain your birth country's citizenship, which means you'll be a dual national. A marriage visa lawyer can advise you on your options when applying for dual US citizenship via marriage.

Naturalization

Individuals who have moved to the United States via a Green card can apply for citizenship via naturalization. However, they must first establish whether their country of origin recognizes dual citizenship and the rules surrounding it.

The waiting period for citizenship through the naturalization process is three to five years after obtaining a Green card. Thereafter, an applicant must fill out and submit Form N-400 or the Application for Naturalization form. If they meet the dual citizenship rules and requirements, they'll receive US citizenship, making them dual nationals.

Does the United States Allow Dual Citizenship?

The United States allows dual citizenship. However, the applicant's country of origin must allow dual citizenship. If that doesn't happen, and you still want to become a US citizen, you must cede your country of origin's citizenship. The United States permits its nationals to acquire dual nationality, just like it allows citizens of other countries to gain American citizenship.

If you're a naturalized citizen, you won't have to give up your country of origin's citizenship. According to the US Supreme Court, people can hold and exercise the rights of nationality in more than one country. Nonetheless, some countries don't recognize their citizens' status as naturalized US citizens. For instance, New Zealand, Italy, and Canada recognize dual nationality, while China doesn't.

If you come from a country that doesn't recognize dual nationality, you will lose your citizenship status automatically when you become a naturalized American. Therefore, check your country of origin's citizenship laws when looking to become a dual US citizen.

When Should I Apply for Dual Citizenship?

Becoming a dual citizen of the United States and another country means you can live and work in either country and share similar rights as both countries' citizens. Unlike most immigration visas, which typically get availed at specific times of the year, you can apply for US citizenship through marriage or naturalization. You only need to meet the eligibility requirements to become a naturalized American. Generally, you can apply for dual citizenship in the United States three to five years after receiving a Green card.

Challenges and Considerations Before Applying

While the benefits of dual citizenship are significant, prospective applicants should also weigh the responsibilities and potential drawbacks:

  • Taxation Issues:
    The U.S. taxes its citizens on worldwide income. This means even if you reside abroad, you must still file annual tax returns and may be subject to double taxation, depending on treaties between the U.S. and your other country of citizenship.
  • Military Service Requirements:
    Some countries may require compulsory military service. As a dual citizen, you may be obligated to serve in one or both countries unless exemptions apply.
  • Diplomatic Complications:
    Dual citizens may face challenges if arrested or detained abroad, especially in their second country of citizenship. The U.S. government may have limited ability to provide consular assistance in such cases.
  • Legal Conflicts:
    Dual nationality can lead to conflicts of law. For instance, family law rulings (such as custody or inheritance) may differ across jurisdictions, causing enforcement challenges.
  • Limited Job Eligibility:
    Certain government or security-sensitive roles in the U.S. may require exclusive American citizenship, potentially limiting career opportunities.

Obligations of Dual Citizens in the United States

Being a dual citizen of the United States and another country accords you the same rights and privileges as American-born citizens. Nonetheless, you must follow certain obligations. For starters, dual nationals must owe allegiance to the US and their country of origin. They need to observe both countries' laws, and either can enforce its laws as it deems fit.

You must register with the citizen and immigration services department if you travel or decide to live in another country after obtaining US citizenship. It's also obligatory to have your American passport with you whenever you travel outside the country.

Dual citizens, either by naturalization or birth, must speak basic English and pay federal income and other taxes even if they earn an income outside the US. Another obligation is that they must report previous encounters with law enforcement agencies. They must also defend the country when called upon, and perform jury service or a similar nationality act when required.

Once you become a dual US citizen, you must always use your American passport to enter and leave the United States. Also, you may be required by the other country whose citizenship you hold to enter and leave its territory using its passport. Using a passport issued by a foreign state to travel to and from other countries other than the US is inconsistent with American law.

You must meet these obligations even if you live outside the US. Remember that being a dual US national means you have twice as many obligations as an individual with only one nationality. For instance, you'll need to pay taxes in both countries even if you don't actively reside in both. Likewise, you may undergo mandatory military service if your country of origin requires so.

Because dual nationals pay allegiance to both countries, other countries' claims upon dual nationals of the US can place them in difficult situations. That's particularly the case when the obligations to one country conflict with the other's laws. Furthermore, dual nationality can hamper the United States government's efforts to provide consular protection when they're abroad, more so in the country of their second nationality.

How Dual Citizenship Impacts Financial Planning

For U.S. citizens, dual nationality has notable implications on financial planning, particularly regarding:

  • Asset Ownership and Tax Compliance:
    Dual citizens must comply with IRS reporting requirements for foreign bank accounts (via FBAR and FATCA), which can be complex and require professional guidance.
  • Foreign Property Taxation:
    Owning property in another country may introduce additional taxes, such as capital gains taxes or foreign inheritance levies, depending on local laws.
  • Investment Opportunities:
    Some countries restrict investment by foreigners but permit greater flexibility for citizens. Dual citizenship can open up new markets for real estate, stocks, and business ventures.
  • Currency Diversification and Banking Access:
    With banking access in two countries, dual nationals can diversify currency holdings, reduce financial risk, and take advantage of different banking products and interest rates.

If you’re unsure about how dual citizenship may affect your finances, consult an attorney on UpCounsel for tailored legal guidance.

Rights Of Dual Citizens in The United States

Being a US citizen means you hold the rights of an American-born citizen. These include:

Right to Work Anywhere

After obtaining dual US citizenship through marriage, you can live and work anywhere in the United States without requiring a multi-entry permanent visa. Nonetheless, you may get overlooked for some federal jobs, especially those that require security clearances.

Unrestricted Travel

With United States citizenship, you can travel abroad for as long as possible without losing your citizenship status. Unlike when you get Green cards, you won't need to apply for a re-entry permit if you intend to live outside the US for more than a year.

You Can Vote

Dual US citizens can vote in both countries. So, if you hold American and Canadian citizenship, you can vote in all US elections. Only US citizens, and not those with permanent residence can vote in federal elections. You can also vie for public office as a dual national.

Right to Education

Access to higher-quality education is a factor in why many people seek to become dual US citizens. It enables them to attend school in the US without requiring a student visa or paying the high tuition fees international students get charged. They can qualify for tuition assistance and similar programs that are only available to those with US citizenship.

For more information, contact us.

U.S. Policy on Dual Citizenship

The United States permits dual citizenship, meaning American citizens can also hold citizenship in another country. Likewise, foreign nationals who meet the eligibility criteria—whether through birth, marriage, or naturalization—can apply for U.S. citizenship without necessarily renouncing their original nationality. However, it’s important to understand the obligations that come with this status, such as ongoing tax reporting and legal responsibilities to both countries. Consulting an immigration attorney can help ensure compliance with all applicable laws.

Potential Drawbacks of Dual Citizenship

While the benefits of dual citizenship are substantial, there are also challenges to consider. One of the most significant is the potential for double taxation. U.S. citizens must report worldwide income to the IRS, regardless of where they live. Additionally, dual citizens are subject to the laws and obligations of both countries, which may include mandatory military service or other civic duties.

The path to dual citizenship can also be complex and expensive, especially if pursued through naturalization. Without proper legal assistance, applicants risk delays or denials due to incomplete paperwork or failure to meet eligibility requirements.

Career Opportunities for Dual Citizens

One of the notable advantages of dual citizenship is expanded access to job markets. Dual nationals can legally live and work in both countries without needing to secure work visas or permits. This opens doors to employment and business opportunities that may not be available to non-citizens. For professionals seeking international experience or remote roles across borders, dual citizenship can be a significant asset.

Who Typically Becomes a Dual Citizen?

Dual citizenship appeals to a wide range of individuals. It is commonly pursued by:

  • Naturalized citizens who wish to maintain ties to their country of origin while fully participating in American life.
  • Children of immigrants or mixed-nationality parents, who may automatically qualify for citizenship in both countries.
  • International professionals and entrepreneurs who seek easier access to global markets.
  • Retirees and lifestyle-driven individuals looking to live abroad while retaining their original citizenship.

Whether for personal, professional, or strategic reasons, dual citizenship offers flexibility and long-term value for many individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I lose my U.S. citizenship if I become a dual citizen? No, the U.S. allows dual citizenship, and acquiring another nationality does not automatically revoke your U.S. citizenship unless you intend to renounce it.

Does dual citizenship affect Social Security benefits? Generally, U.S. citizens can still receive Social Security benefits abroad, although this may depend on the other country’s agreements with the U.S.

What happens if my second country does not allow dual citizenship? You may have to choose between the two nationalities or renounce one. Legal counsel can help you navigate country-specific rules.

Can dual citizenship be passed to children? Yes, many countries allow children born to dual citizens to inherit both nationalities, but eligibility depends on each country’s laws.

How long does it take to obtain dual citizenship? Timelines vary depending on the country and method (birth, marriage, naturalization). U.S. naturalization typically takes 3–5 years after obtaining a Green Card.

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