How to Have Dual Citizenship in Germany and the United States

Germany and the United States recognize dual citizenship, but both have extra rules that can ultimately force that citizen to make a decision. Dual citizenship may have some advantages in terms of pride, but there are some disadvantages too. A dual citizen could have to pay taxes to both nations.

Things You'll Need

• passport
• documents revealing your citizenship
• birth certificate

Instructions

1. Any child born to an American and German national is considered a dual citizen regardless of where the child is born. Neither country requires the child to declare citizenship, so that person can, in theory, remain a dual citizen for life.

2. Children born in Germany to non-German parents can also be declared a dual citizen even if the child is raised in a different country. However, by age 23, that person would have to become a citizen of either Germany or the other country.

3. A person of age can not apply for dual citizenship between the two countries. An American wishing to live in Germany must at some point renounce American citizenship and become a full German citizen.

4. German law considers all dual citizens eligible for German military service. An American-German male, who must also register with the U.S. Selective Service System within 3 months of turning 18, may want to declare U.S. citizenship to avoid a complication with the German military. However, that male can choose to serve in the German military with no effect on his American citizenship.

Tips & Warnings

• Follow all guidelines. Many guidelines are to be sought upon a certain age

References

• United States Embassy