Dual Nationality
The concept of dual nationality means that a person is a citizen of two countries
at the same time. Each country has its own citizenship laws based on its own
policy. Persons may have dual nationality by automatic operation of different
laws rather than by choice. For example, a child born in a foreign country to
U.S. citizen parents may be both a U.S. citizen and a citizen of the country
of birth.
Acquiring Foreign Citizenship and Losing U.S. Citizenship
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. Also, a person who is automatically granted another citizenship
does not risk losing U.S. citizenship. However, a person who acquires a foreign
citizenship by applying for it may lose U.S. citizenship. In order to lose U.S.
citizenship, the law requires that the person must apply for the foreign citizenship
voluntarily, by free choice, and with the intention to give up U.S. citizenship.
Intent can be shown by the person's statements or conduct. 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. The country where
a dual national is located generally has a stronger claim to that person's allegiance.
Requirements of Dual Nationality
However, dual nationals owe allegiance to both the United States and the foreign
country. They are required to obey the laws of both countries. Either country
has the right to enforce its laws, particularly if the person later travels
there.Most U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, must use a U.S. passport
to enter and leave the United States. Dual nationals may also be required by
the foreign country to use its passport to enter and leave that country. Use
of the foreign passport does not endanger U.S. citizenship. Most countries permit
a person to renounce or otherwise lose citizenship.
From U.S. Department of State
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