Understanding Dual Citizenship
If you have become a naturalized U.S. citizen, that does not mean that you automatically relinquish your citizenship in your native country. It simply means that you are now a citizen of two countries. This concept is known as dual citizenship or dual nationality. If you are currently being confronted with issues concerning your dual citizenship, consider contacting an immigration lawyer to assist you.
The United States does allow dual citizenship, but it does not encourage dual citizenship because of the problems it may cause. Even though the United States allows dual citizenship, your native country may not.
Prior to becoming a naturalized citizen of the U.S., you should investigate whether or not your native country allows dual citizenship. If so, you may also enjoy the privilege of owning property and having voting rights in both countries.
A person in the United States may acquire dual citizenship in many ways. The most common forms of gaining this designation are:
- Being born in the United States to parents who are not U.S. citizens;
- Being born outside of the United States to one parent who is a United States citizen and the other parent is a citizen of another country;
- Being born in a foreign country to U.S. citizens;
- Becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen while maintaining citizenship in his or her native country; and
- Marrying a non-U.S. citizen.
Traveling Abroad as a Dual Citizen
When you leave or return to the United States, always present yourself as a U.S. citizen. This bascially involves showing your passport and declaring that you are a U.S. citizen.
If, for any reason, you are engaged in a conversation with U.S. law enforcement and you are questioned about your citizenship, simply respond that you are an American. It is not necessary to discuss your dual citizenship.
Likewise, when returning to or leaving from your native country, declare yourself to be a citizen of that country. Show authorities the passport of your native country, not your United States passport.
If questioned by authorities as to your citizenship, only confirm the citizenship of your native country. Do not mention that you hold citizenship in the United States.
However, if you are in need of assistance from a U.S. embassy or consulate in your native country, represent yourself as an American. This is important to do because international law dictates that your native country has a legal claim over you first when you are phyically within the country. Consequently, the help you are allowed to receive from a U.S. embassy or consulate may be limited.
The best approach for you to take is to be discreet with your dual citizenship. Only provide the information absolutely necessary to satisfy the authorities if you are questioned about your citizenship. Also, make sure that you carry your U.S. passport and the passport of your native country with you at all times while traveling.
Remember, being a citizen of two countries means that you must observe the laws of both countries. Dealing with these issues can become quite complex.
If you'd like to speak with an immigration lawyer, simply call us at (877) 444-1074 or fill out our Immigration Case Evaluation Form.