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What is Dual Citizenship: Dual citizenship means that an individual is a
citizen of two countries at the same time. It is also possible to be a citizen
of three or more countries. However, every country has its own laws regarding
dual citizenship. Some countries allow it; others do not, while some have no
particular laws regarding dual citizenship. Dual citizenship is not something
that can be applied for. It is a process that happens when a person becomes a
citizen of another country, in addition to his or her country of birth. Dual
citizenship occurs automatically to some individuals, for example: a child is
born in the United States to foreign parents. In this example this child has
U.S. Dual Citizenship since the child is automatically a citizen of the United
States and a citizen of its parent's home country. The same applies to children
of U.S. citizens born abroad where the child is both a U.S. citizen and a
citizen of the country of birth.
United States Dual Citizenship: The U.S. government allows dual
citizenship. United States law recognizes U.S. Dual Citizenship, but the U.S.
government does not encourage it is as a matter of policy due to the problems
that may arise from it. It is important to understand that a foreign citizen
does NOT lose his or her citizenship when becoming a U.S. citizen. An individual
that becomes a U.S. citizen through naturalization may keep his or her original
citizenship. However, as some countries do not recognize dual citizenship, it is
important to consider it carefully before applying for
U.S.
citizenship.
Dual citizenship is a complex issue and it is important that you understand that
there also obligations and not only benefits that comes with being a dual
citizen. Being a citizen of two countries means that you need to obey the laws
of both countries, including paying taxes and serving in the military (if
required by any of the countries). The "United States Dual Citizenship Guide"
explains these issues in detail.
US Citizenship Applications: It is highly recommended that any individual
that considers applying for US citizenship also reads the "United States Dual
Citizenship Guide". The "United States Dual Citizenship Guide" is an additional
information guide, but it does not contain specific information on how to apply
for US citizenship. For U.S. citizenship application requirements and procedures
you should download the "U.S. Citizenship Information and Application Manual".
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