The
concept of dual citizenship.
The concept of dual citizenship means that a person is a citizen
of two countries at the same time. Each country has its own citizenship
laws based on its own policy. Persons may have dual citizenship by
automatic operation of different laws rather than by choice. For example,
a child born in a foreign country to U.S. citizen parents may be both
a U.S. citizen and a citizen of the country of birth.
Acquiring foreign citizenship.
A U.S. citizen may acquire foreign citizenship by marriage, or a
person naturalized as a U.S. citizen
may not lose the citizenship of the country of birth. United States
law does not mention dual citizenship or require a person to choose
one citizenship or another. Also, a person who is automatically granted
another citizenship does not risk losing U.S. citizenship. However,
a person who acquires a foreign citizenship by applying for it may
lose U.S. citizenship. In order to lose U.S. citizenship, the law
requires that the person must apply for the foreign citizenship voluntarily,
by free choice, and with the intention to give up U.S.
citizenship. Intent can be shown by the person's statements or
conduct.
Dual nationals owe allegiance to both the United States and the
foreign country.
The U.S. Government recognizes that dual citizenship exists but
does not encourage it as a matter of policy because of the problems
it may cause. Claims of other countries on dual national U.S. citizens
may conflict with U.S. law, and dual nationality may limit U.S. Government
efforts to assist citizens abroad.
However, dual nationals owe allegiance to both the United States
and the foreign country. They are required to obey the laws of both
countries. Either country has the right to enforce its laws, particularly
if the person later travels there. Most US citizens, including dual
nationals, must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the United
States. Dual nationals may also be required by the foreign country
to use its passport to enter and leave that country. Use of the foreign
passport does not endanger U.S. citizenship. Most countries permit
a person to renounce or otherwise lose citizenship.
Information on losing foreign citizenship can be obtained from the
foreign country's embassy and consulates in the United States. Americans
can renounce U.S. citizenship in the proper form at U.S. embassies
and consulates abroad.
Related topics:
Green card lottery FAQ
Immigration attorney links.
