Countries That Allow Dual Citizenship
Published on March 25, 2025
Published by
Reviewed by
Table of Contents
Which countries allow dual citizenship?
Many countries allow people to be citizens of two places at the same time. This means you can hold two passports and enjoy the rights of both countries. Some of the most well-known countries that allow dual citizenship include:
- United States​
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- France​
- Switzerland
- Italy​
- Sweden​
- Ireland
- Portugal
The rules can be different depending on how you become a citizen. Some countries allow dual citizenship only if you were born into it, while others allow it through naturalization, marriage, or investment.
It’s always a good idea to check the specific laws before applying for a second nationality.
What is dual citizenship?
Dual citizenship means that a person is legally recognized as a citizen of two or more countries at the same time. This allows them to enjoy the rights and responsibilities of both nations, such as voting, working, and accessing public services.
However, it also means they must follow the laws of both countries, including legal obligations like taxes or military service.
How can I get dual citizenship?
There are different ways to become a dual citizen, depending on the country’s laws:
- By Birth – Some countries automatically grant citizenship to anyone born within their borders (jus soli). Others give citizenship if at least one parent is a citizen (jus sanguinis).
- By Marriage – Marrying a citizen of another country can help speed up the process of getting citizenship. Some countries allow spouses to apply for naturalization sooner than other foreigners.
- By Naturalization – Living in a country for a certain number of years, following residency requirements, and proving language skills can make a person eligible for citizenship.
- By Investment – Some countries offer citizenship in exchange for a large financial investment, such as buying real estate, donating to a government fund, or investing in local businesses.
- By Descent – If a person’s parents or grandparents were born in another country, they might qualify for citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis).
Each country has its own rules, and some require proof of a clean criminal record, language proficiency, or property ownership.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of dual citizenship?
Benefits of Dual Citizenship:
- Easier Travel – Having two passports can make it simpler to visit more countries without needing a visa.
- More Work and Business Opportunities – You can live, work, and own property in both countries.
- Access to Public Services – You may qualify for healthcare, education, and social benefits in both places.
- Cultural and Family Ties – You can stay connected to both of your home countries and preserve your heritage.
Drawbacks of Dual Citizenship:
- Taxes – Some countries, like the US, require citizens to pay taxes even if they live abroad.
- Legal Responsibilities – Some countries may require military service or limit dual citizens from holding government jobs.
- Conflicts Between Countries – If your two countries have political tensions, traveling between them might be difficult.
Which countries do not allow dual citizenship?
Some countries do not allow people to be citizens of two places at once. If you become a citizen of another country, you may have to give up your original nationality. The top 10 countries that do not allow dual citizenship include:
- China
- India
- Japan
- Singapore
- Saudi Arabia
- Indonesia
- Ukraine
- Austria
- Netherlands
- United Arab Emirates
In these places, having dual citizenship can lead to losing your original nationality, restrictions on owning property, or problems with visas and travel. Some of these countries make exceptions, but it’s important to check their rules before applying for another nationality.
Can I have dual citizenship in the United States?
Yes, the United States allows dual citizenship. If you become a citizen of another country, you don’t lose your US citizenship. However, there are some things you need to keep in mind:
- Taxes – US citizens must file taxes every year, no matter where they live. This can create extra paperwork, but tax treaties with other countries can help.
- Legal Responsibilities – You must follow the laws of both countries. This could include military service in some places.
- Travel Rules – When entering or leaving the US, you must use your US passport, even if you have another one.
Why use the IRS Streamlined Tax Amnesty Program?
It’s for American citizens that didn’t know they had to file US tax returns each year, and have therefore fallen behind. Some more than 30 years! With the IRS Streamlined Procedure, say goodbye to overdue tax returns, late fees, and penalties.
Connect with over 10,000+ expats today!
Embarking on an international journey shouldn’t mean navigating the complex world of US taxation alone. If you’re living and working abroad, our friendly, supportive Expat Tax Online Help Facebook group is here to assist. We’ve designed a community that serves as a comprehensive guide and resource platform tailored for US expats.
What are investment citizenship programs?
Investment citizenship programs allow people to become citizens of a country by making a financial investment. This is a legal way to get a second passport, which can provide benefits such as easier travel, better business opportunities, and access to more services.
How do these programs work?
To qualify for investment citizenship, individuals usually need to put money into the country in one of the following ways:
- Buying Property – Some countries allow people to gain citizenship by purchasing real estate.
- Donating to a Government Fund – A non-refundable contribution to the country’s national development program.
- Investing in Government Bonds – Buying bonds that support the country’s economy.
- Starting or Investing in a Business – Creating jobs or supporting industries in the country.
For example, Malta’s citizenship program requires both a government donation and real estate investment. Portugal’s Golden Visa offers a path to citizenship through property purchases or capital investments.
Another example would be:
- St. Kitts and Nevis – A donation of at least US$150,000 to a government fund or a real estate purchase of US$200,000.
- Vanuatu – A one-time donation of US$130,000 can grant citizenship.
How does dual citizenship affect US taxes?
If you are a US citizen and also a citizen of another country, you still have to follow US tax rules. The United States requires its citizens to report and pay taxes on all income, no matter where they live.
Do US dual citizens have to pay taxes twice?
Yes. If both the US and the other country tax the same income, this is called double taxation. However, the US has ways to reduce this burden:
- Foreign Tax Credit – If you pay taxes in another country, you can subtract that amount from what you owe the US.
- Foreign Earned Income Exclusion – If you live and work outside the US, you can exclude a certain amount of income from US taxes.
- Tax Treaties – The US has agreements with many countries to prevent double taxation and clarify tax responsibilities.
What other tax responsibilities do US dual citizens have?
- Reporting Foreign Bank Accounts – If you have more than a certain amount in foreign accounts, you may need to report them to the US government.
- Green Card Holders – Even if you don’t have US citizenship, permanent residents (Green Card holders) still need to file US taxes.
- Military Service – Some countries require citizens to serve in the military. This can be complicated if you are a US citizen as well.
What does it mean to have dual citizenship?
- More Travel Freedom – A second passport can make travel easier by allowing visa-free entry to more countries.
- Better Work and Education Options – Some countries allow only their citizens to work or access lower tuition fees in schools.
- Access to Social Services – Dual citizens can use the healthcare system and other government benefits in both countries.
- Cultural and Family Ties – Being a citizen of two countries allows people to stay connected to their heritage and live more freely between both places.
- Financial Freedom – Dual citizenship can provide business and investment opportunities, making it easier to own property or start a company in either country.
However, dual citizens must also follow the laws of both countries. This may include:
- Taxes – Some countries, like the US, require their citizens to file taxes no matter where they live.
- Military Service – Certain countries require their male citizens to serve in the military.
- Legal Responsibilities – Some jobs, especially in the government, may only be available to people who hold only one nationality.
Spread the word. Please share… 👉
