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

Asked by: Waylon Gleichner  |  Last update: May 22, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (32 votes)

Owe allegiance to both the U.S. and a foreign country. Must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the U.S. 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.

How long can you live in another country without losing U.S. citizenship?

A naturalized citizen can live for as long as they wish in another country, with almost no risk to their U.S. citizenship status.

Can you be a U.S. citizen and a citizen of another country?

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. U.S. law does not mention dual nationality or require a person to choose one citizenship or another.

When you become a U.S. citizen, do you lose your Mexican citizenship?

Mexican citizens who naturalize in the United States may keep their Mexican nationality but may not vote and may not run or serve in public office in Mexico. Those who obtained U.S. citizenship before 1998, however, automatically lost their Mexican nationality and needed to apply within 5 years to reclaim it.

Can I keep my U.S. citizenship if I become a Spanish citizen?

Yes, Spain allows dual citizenship with the United States. This means individuals can hold citizenship in both countries simultaneously, enabling them to enjoy the rights and privileges of both Spanish and American citizenship.

How to Renounce US Citizenship and Still Visit the USA

26 related questions found

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 I stay outside the U.S. as a citizen?

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.

What is the best dual citizenship for Americans?

15 Best Countries for Dual Citizenship for US Citizens
  • Luxembourg. HDI Value: 0.930. ...
  • Canada. HDI Value: 0.936. ...
  • New Zealand. HDI Value: 0.937. ...
  • Belgium. HDI Value: 0.937. ...
  • Finland. HDI Value: 0.940. ...
  • Germany. HDI Value: 0.942. ...
  • Ireland. HDI Value: 0.945. ...
  • Sweden. HDI Value: 0.947.

Do dual citizens have to pay taxes in both countries?

Dual citizens are often required to file tax returns in both countries. However, tax treaties and other benefits can be used to avoid double taxation. Using these benefits, most US dual citizens who live abroad can erase their US tax liability.

When you become a U.S. citizen, do you lose your other citizenship?

Owe allegiance to both the U.S. and a foreign country. Must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the U.S. 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.

What are the disadvantages of dual citizenship?

One of the biggest challenges of holding dual citizenship is navigating the legal and tax obligations of both countries. Some countries impose tax on their citizens regardless of where they live, leading to potential issues of double taxation.

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 can cause you to lose your U.S. citizenship?

You may lose your U.S. citizenship in specific cases, including if you:
  • 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.

What happens to my U.S. citizenship if I move to another country?

While living abroad itself does not automatically trigger the loss of citizenship, it can have implications on an individual's status. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires naturalized citizens to demonstrate their intent to maintain a connection to the country.

What is the difference between a U.S. citizen and a US national?

U.S. Citizen - One who was born either within the territory of the United States or to U.S. citizen parents. U.S. National - One who owes permanent allegiance to the United States. Lawful Permanent Resident Alien - One who is legally accorded the privilege of residing permanently in the United States.

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.

What is the best citizenship to get in the world?

Countries identified as among the most peaceful in the world include Iceland, New Zealand, and Portugal, according to the Global Peace Index 2023. These nations are often viewed as attractive options for individuals seeking a second citizenship.

What countries allow US dual citizenship?

Countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, France, Italy, Ireland, Israel, Mexico, and the Philippines, among others, allow dual citizenship with the USA, providing American citizens with numerous advantages.

How long can you be out of the US without losing your citizenship?

Citizenship does not expire outside of the country. You can leave the US and never set foot in it again, if you like, and still not lose citizenship.

What are the disadvantages of a green card?

Limitations include:
  • Green card holders do not have the right to vote.
  • Green card holders do not have as high a priority in sponsoring other family members for green cards as U.S. citizens.
  • Green cards themselves are non-transferrable and are not automatically extended to children born outside the United States.

What is the 4 year 1 day rule?

You must spend at least four years and one day physically present in the United States before reapplying for naturalization.

Is there a downside to having two passports?

Dual citizenship offers a range of benefits, including the ability to travel freely, work in two countries, and access social services and property ownership opportunities. However, it also comes with challenges, such as the potential for double taxation, military obligations, and restrictions on certain jobs.

Which passport should I use if I have dual citizenship?

U.S. nationals, including U.S. dual nationals, must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the United States. U.S. dual nationals may also be required by the country of their foreign nationality to use that country's passport to enter and leave that country.

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.