Do I lose my US citizenship if I become Canadian?

Asked by: Ms. Kelsi Ondricka  |  Last update: April 3, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (12 votes)

U.S. law does not mention dual nationality 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.

Can I become a Canadian citizen and keep my U.S. citizenship?

If you are already a citizen of either the United States or Canada and become a citizen of the other without taking active steps to renounce your original citizenship, you are a dual citizen. It's as simple as that.

Will I lose my U.S. citizenship if I move to Canada?

Nope, current U.S. law allows you to maintain dual citizenship.

Will I lose my U.S. citizenship if I become a citizen of another country?

Do not have to choose one nationality over the other. As a U.S. citizen, you may naturalize in another country without risking your U.S. citizenship.

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.

How could I lose my citizenship?

35 related questions found

Does Canada allow dual citizenship?

Canada allows you to have multiple citizenships while keeping your Canadian citizenship. However, not all countries do allow this. Some countries may even consider it illegal for you to have another citizenship. Examples of ways you might have another citizenship(s):

Why is it a bad idea to renounce US citizenship?

You cannot vote in U.S. elections. You cannot have a U.S. passport or benefit from U.S. consular services. You lose the right to work or live in the U.S. without a visa. You lose the U.S. government's protection abroad.

How long can you be out of the US before losing citizenship?

While there is no set limit, extended periods of absence, especially when combined with other factors, can trigger inquiries from U.S. authorities. Factors such as maintaining ties to the United States, filing taxes, and participating in U.S. elections can demonstrate a continued commitment to 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.

Do I have to pay US taxes if I renounce citizenship?

No, renouncing your US citizenship doesn't immediately cancel your tax obligations. You are still required to file a final tax return covering income up to the date of renunciation, and depending on your financial status, you may also owe an exit tax.

What happens if a U.S. citizen moves to Canada?

US Citizens who don't hold Canadian citizenship will need to obtain authorization in order to work or study in Canada. Americans do benefit from being visa-exempt: they will not require a visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada, unlike foreign nationals of many other countries.

How many people renounce US citizenship?

According to a 2020 survey of government data, 5,816 Americans renounced their citizenship in the first half of that year, a more than 10-fold increase from the last six months of 2019.

Can I lose my citizenship in Canada?

Citizenship can be revoked if an individual engages in criminal activities or poses a threat to public safety after being granted Canadian citizenship. This underscores the ongoing responsibility of citizens to abide by the law and uphold the values of Canadian society.

Do I lose U.S. citizenship if I move to Canada?

Will I lose my U.S. citizenship if I move to Canada? Nope, current U.S. law allows you to maintain dual citizenship.

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.

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 is the strongest passport in the world?

In 2025, Singapore has reclaimed its crown as the world's most powerful passport with visa-free access to an extraordinary 195 of the 227 global destinations included in the list.

Does U.S. allow 2 passports?

The U.S. Government recognizes that dual nationality 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.

Which countries don't allow dual citizenship?

The countries that don't allow dual citizenship for adults as of this writing include:
  • Bahamas.
  • China.
  • Haiti.
  • Indonesia (except in certain circumstances)
  • Japan.
  • Kuwait.
  • Laos.
  • Malawi.

What makes you lose U.S. citizenship?

Run for public office in a foreign country (under certain conditions) Enter military service in a foreign country (under certain conditions) Apply for citizenship in a foreign country with the intention of giving up U.S. citizenship. Commit an act of treason against the United States.

What is the 4 year 1 day rule for U.S. citizenship?

The statutory period preceding the filing of the application is calculated from the date of filing. Once 4 years and 1 day have elapsed from the date of the applicant's return to the United States, the period of absence from the United States that occurred within the past 5 years is now less than 1 year.

How long can you live in Canada without citizenship?

Most visitors can stay for up to 6 months in Canada. If you're allowed to enter Canada, the border services officer may allow you to stay for less or more than 6 months.

Will I lose my social security if I renounce my U.S. citizenship?

If you renounce your U.S. citizenship, you will generally not lose your Social Security benefits. If you have paid into Social Security for at least 40 quarters (10 years), you remain eligible to collect Social Security retirement benefits even after renouncing citizenship.

What are the disadvantages of being a U.S. citizen?

Wherever you live, one of the main disadvantages of U.S. citizenship is the tax obligation on your worldwide income. For some, this can be a major financial burden because it can lead to complicated tax circumstances—especially for dual citizens—and sometimes double taxation.