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What Is Dual Citizenship?

By , About.com Guide

Question: What Is Dual Citizenship?
Answer:

Dual citizenship means that an individual is a citizen of two countries at the same time. Nationality laws and policies differ from country to country, and some nations recognize dual citizenship while others do not. The U.S. government allows its citizens to hold dual nationality, but it does not encourage it as a matter of policy.

You do not lose your original citizenship if you become a U.S. citizen through naturalization. However, because some countries do not recognize dual citizenship, it is important to check the nationality laws and policies of your home country. If you are automatically granted foreign citizenship, you will not lose your U.S. citizenship. However, if you are granted foreign citizenship because you applied for it, you may lose your U.S. citizenship. The application must have been made by free choice with the intention of giving up your U.S. citizenship.

Holding dual citizenship means you have an obligation to obey the laws and policies of both countries. This may include taxes and fulfilling any military obligations for either country. Americans can renounce U.S. citizenship at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.

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