Can an American Have Dual Citizenship?

The United States recognizes dual citizenship, but doesn't necessarily endorse it.

Dual citizenship involves owing allegiance to two countries and being bound by the laws of both. In many instances, U.S. citizens may have dual citizenship without endangering their U.S. citizenship status.

Causes

Circumstances leading to dual citizenship may include being born to a U.S. citizen outside of the United States, the foreign citizenship of one or both parents, marriage to a foreign national or retaining citizenship of a foreign country after becoming a U.S. citizen.

Considerations

Individuals automatically granted citizenship in another country do not lose U.S. citizenship. However, if a person actively seeks and gains citizenship in another country, she may lose her U.S. citizenship.

Dual Laws

Having dual citizenship necessitates following the laws of both countries. However, the laws may not be enforceable unless the individual travels to the other country. Additionally, the United States' ability to assist an American with dual citizenship may be limited if he travels to another country also granting citizenship.

Warning

If you join the military of a country currently hostile with the U.S., renounce U.S. citizenship, accept employment with a foreign government or make an oath of allegiance to another country, you may lose your U.S. citizenship.

References

• U.S. Department of State: Dual Nationality
• U.S. Department of State: Advice about Possible Loss of U.S. Citizenship and Dual Nationality
• U.S. Office of Personnel Management Investigative Services: Citizenship Laws of the World