What is dual citizenship?

Many Florida residents may desire to hold citizenship in the U.S. and another country. While the United States does not formally recognize dual citizenship, a Florida resident can still seek seek citizenship without any negative consequences.

Having dual citizenship means that someone is considered to be a citizen of two different countries. This has a number of benefits, including the ability to easily have residences in both countries and to be able to access government programs in both countries more easily. However, dual citizenship also can add complications. For example, someone with dual citizenship may have tax obligations to both countries. The only time a person may lose U.S. citizenship is if they attempt to harm the U.S.

There are several ways that a person may become a U.S. citizen. The first is to be born in the U.S., even if their parents are not originally from the country. Someone who is born in a foreign country but has one parent who is a U.S. citizen is also a U.S. citizen, even if their parent is a citizen of another country. Otherwise, a person can become a naturalized citizen while still holding citizenship in another country or seek citizenship in another country after becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen.

Because those who are seeking dual citizenship must follow both U.S. laws and the laws of the other country they wish to be citizens of, each person’s circumstances are unique. Therefore, this blog is not intended to be taken as legal advice. An immigration attorney may be able to help those who wish to hold dual citizenship through the legal process while helping them understand the responsibilities and obligations of holding dual citizenship. Finally, they may be able to help with the specific requirements needed when looking to become a naturalized citizen of the U.S.

Source: Findlaw, “Dual Citizenship“, August 18, 2014