Can you be a dual Canadian and U.S. citizen?

Asked by: Salvador Schneider  |  Last update: August 4, 2025
Score: 4.9/5 (29 votes)

SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS. There is no distinct process for U.S.-Canada dual citizenship. You obtain each separately without renouncing the other. Dual citizenship allows living, working, and studying in both countries without usual foreign national restrictions.

Does Canada allow dual citizenship with US?

Neither United States nor Canadian law prohibits citizens of either country from becoming citizens of other countries simultaneously. Thus, dual U.S. and Canadian citizenship is permitted.

Do I lose my U.S. citizenship if I become Canadian?

No. Citizenship is yours unless you take affirmative actions and steps to renounce it. Moving to and living in another country does not void your US citizenship. Nor does US citizenship have a presence requirement. You can live decades outside the USA and you remain a US citizen unless you don't want to be anymore.

Can you be a dual resident of Canada and the US?

Yes, you can be a dual resident of both the USA and Canada. To achieve this, you need to meet the residency requirements of both countries, such as having a permanent home available in each or spending sufficient time in each country.

Does the US allow dual citizenship?

Dual citizenship allows individuals to be legally recognised as nationals of two countries simultaneously, granting them rights and obligations in both. The United States permits dual nationality, which means Americans can hold a passport of another country without renouncing their original citizenship.

Navigating Dual Citizenship: USA-Canada Basics & US Citizenship Methods

36 related questions found

When did the US stop allowing dual citizenship?

Dual Citizenship in the United States

Dual citizenship had previously been banned in the United States, but in 1967 the US Supreme Court struck down most laws forbidding dual citizenship. However, the US government remained disdainful of dual citizenship for some time.

How to get U.S. citizenship as a Canadian?

The application process for US Citizenship
  1. Step 1: FIle and Submit Form N-400. ...
  2. Step 2: Attend Biometrics Appointment. ...
  3. Step 3: Take the Citizenship Exam. ...
  4. Step 4: Receive USCIS Decision. ...
  5. Step 5: Receive Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony. ...
  6. Step 6: Attend Naturalization Oath Ceremony.

Can I live in Canada and still be a U.S. citizen?

Yes, American citizens can move to Canada. However, if your stay in Canada exceeds 180 days, or if you intend to work there, you will likely need a visa or a work permit. Each visa requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and following the appropriate application procedures.

What are the disadvantages of dual citizenship in Canada and the US?

4 Disadvantages of Dual Citizenship
  • Dual Obligations. As a dual citizen, you are bound by the laws of both countries. ...
  • Double Taxation. For dual citizens of the U.S. and another country, income tax laws can be complicated. ...
  • Barriers to Certain Jobs. ...
  • Complicated Process.

What is the 183 day rule in Canada?

If an individual, who, as a matter of fact, is considered not a resident of Canada, sojourns (i.e. is temporarily resident) in Canada for 183 days or more in a calendar year, the individual is deemed to be resident in Canada for that entire year.

Do I have to renounce my U.S. citizenship to be Canadian?

U.S. law does not require a U.S. citizen to choose between U.S. citizenship and another (foreign) nationality (or nationalities). A U.S. citizen may naturalize in a foreign state without any risk to their U.S. citizenship.

Is it illegal to travel with two passports?

Under the above circumstances, it is not illegal or a fraud in any way for the person to hold two valid passports. Nevertheless, the United States requires that you carry your U.S. passport when traveling, and use it to reenter the United States.

How long can a U.S. citizen stay out of the country?

A common concern is the duration of time a U.S. citizen can spend abroad without jeopardizing their citizenship status. While there is no set limit, extended periods of absence, especially when combined with other factors, can trigger inquiries from U.S. authorities.

Do I lose my Canadian citizenship if I become an American?

Conclusion. Becoming a U.S. citizen does not mean you have to give up your Canadian citizenship. You can keep your Canadian passport and remain a citizen of both countries. If you have concerns about specific situations, it's always a good idea to consult an immigration lawyer for personalized advice.

How long can a U.S. citizen stay in Canada?

How long you can stay. Most visitors can stay for up to 6 months in Canada. At the port of entry, the border services officer may allow you to stay for less or more than 6 months.

Can a Canadian marry an American and get dual citizenship?

The Canadian spouse does not apply for U.S. citizenship; he or she applies for a green card. After three years of residence in the U.S. after approval of the green card, the Canadian can apply for citizenship. He or she will remain a Canadian citizen.

Can I have both a Canadian and U.S. passport?

U.S./Canada dual citizens are advised to carry both valid passports (U.S. and Canada) when traveling to/from the United States. The dual citizen will be required to present their U.S. passport at U.S. immigration and might be requested to present their Canadian passport when going through Canadian immigration.

Does dual citizenship affect social security benefits?

The United States generally considers a person with dual U.S. and foreign citizenship a U.S. citizen for Social Security purposes. This does not apply if you are a U.S. citizen and a citizen of a country the United States has an international social security agreement with. This excludes Canada and Italy.

What countries do us allow dual citizenship?

Which Countries Allow Dual Citizenship with the US?
  • Canada and US Dual Citizenship. ...
  • United Kingdom and US Dual Citizenship. ...
  • Australia and US Dual Citizenship. ...
  • Germany and US Dual Citizenship. ...
  • France and US Dual Citizenship. ...
  • Italy and US Dual Citizenship. ...
  • Ireland and US Dual Citizenship. ...
  • Sweden and US Dual Citizenship.

Can I collect my social security if I move to Canada?

If you are a U.S. citizen, you may receive your Social Security payments outside the U.S. as long as you are eligible for them.

What is the easiest country for Americans to move to?

Canada is one of the easiest countries for Americans to move to with plenty of immigration pathways for skilled workers and those with close family ties. As the closest neighbour to the US, there are more opportunities for cross-border employment from US-based companies, making transfer a possibility.

What are the benefits of dual US and Canadian citizenship?

As a dual citizen, you have the right to live, work, and study in both countries without requiring visas or facing the usual restrictions imposed on foreign nationals. Additionally, dual citizens benefit from both nations' healthcare systems and social services, enjoying a broader safety net.

Can Canadian citizens move to the USA permanently?

Requirements for Immigrating to the US from Canada

The individual must apply for and be approved for a visa. Depending on the reason for immigrating, the appropriate visa category must be chosen, such as a work visa or student visa. You must pass security and background checks, and provide biometric information.

How much does it cost for a Canadian to become a U.S. citizen?

Application Fees for Citizenship Range from $380-$760

If you file a paper application (form N-400) your cost will be $760. If you file an online application the fee is reduced by $50 and you will pay $710.

Can you be a citizen of the U.S. and Canada at the same time?

Under the right circumstances, a person is allowed to become a citizen of both Canada and the United States, simultaneously.