What is dual citizenship? Dual citizenship entails becoming a citizen of two countries, giving the citizen the benefits of citizenship in both territories. In the U.S., citizens can possess dual citizenship in both this country and other countries allowing this status.
To learn more about how to become a dual citizen in the U.S., call Cho Immigration Law today at 312-853-3088 to consult with a citizenship attorney in Chicago.
What Is Dual Citizenship?
Also called dual nationality, dual citizenship is a status for individuals indicating that they are legal citizens of two countries simultaneously. Dual citizens can contribute to both countries as traditional citizens would, while also gaining access to those nations’ benefits and rights.
If you are considering becoming a dual citizen of two countries, there are laws to understand before applying, depending on the countries within which you wish to apply for citizenship.
What Are the Dual Citizenship Laws in the United States?
At this time, U.S. citizens can freely maintain citizenship in two countries, but other countries may have limitations when it comes to dual citizenship. Certain countries could renounce your citizenship upon becoming a U.S. citizen, or they may not take into account your U.S. citizenship. As such, it’s important to know a country’s laws before attempting to gain dual citizenship in the U.S.
While it’s possible for people to gain dual citizenship in the U.S., only a small percent of the 346,169,351 people in the U.S. taking advantage of this benefit.
One reason immigrants who gain citizenship in the U.S. may not realize they can maintain dual citizenship could be the Oath of Allegiance to the United States, which immigrants must take during the naturalization process. This oath involves the renouncing of connections to other countries, but there isn’t a formal disconnection that occurs.
If you’re not sure whether your country of origin would permit dual citizenship in the U.S., an experienced citizenship lawyer can help you understand your rights. He or she could also reveal immigration myths debunked around dual citizenship and other aspects of immigration.
What Are the Benefits vs. Challenges of Having Dual Citizenship?
There are several benefits and disadvantages of dual citizenship to keep in mind.
Benefits of Dual Citizenship
Dual citizenship offers the following key advantages:
- Freely Work & Travel in Both Countries: As a citizen of both countries, you will be able to freely travel between countries and work in them, without the need for a work permit. As a result, dual citizenship is often ideal if you plan on traveling frequently between both countries for work or leisure.
- Political Rights: You can also take part in each country’s politics, whether you plan on simply voting and taking part in political campaigns or running for office.
- The Ability to Purchase and Own Property: Depending on the country to which you apply for citizenship, you may only be allowed to own land property if you’re a citizen. Having dual citizenship in this case could allow you to buy and own your own property.
- Social Services: Citizens of the U.S. and other countries have access to various social services, including education, healthcare, welfare, and more, which could facilitate a happy and healthy life in each country.
- Familiarization With Cultures: Becoming a dual citizen could also help you connect with two cultures for a rich multicultural experience.
The Disadvantages of Dual Citizenship
Although dual citizenship is great for many individuals who want to live and work in two countries at once, there are some challenges that immigrants face with this type of citizenship, such as:
- Citizenship Obligations: When you obtain dual citizenship, you will need to meet the obligations of both countries as a contributing citizen. For example, you must adhere to each country’s laws, requiring an understanding of each country’s unique legal systems. You may also need to serve in one of the country’s military branches in the event of a war, even if that military is in direct opposition to the other nation.
- Limited Work Opportunities: Dual citizenship in some countries could limit your opportunities for employment. For example, the U.S. may limit your security clearance if you wish to gain employment with the government.
- Double Taxation: As a dual citizen, you will be responsible for complying with each country’s tax laws and pay any necessary income taxes, but there are some exceptions to this. You can look into tax treaties that might exist between both countries, which may help minimize your tax burden and even avoid double taxation.
- A Challenging Process: The process of gaining dual citizenship can be more difficult than conventional naturalization. You may need to pay more fees, navigate an overall complicated naturalization process, and face obstacles along the way. These issues make it important to consult an attorney before seeking dual citizenship.
How an Immigration Lawyer Can Help You Through the Dual Citizenship Process
There are many types of immigration cases lawyers handle, including those involving dual citizenship. If you’re considering applying for dual citizenship, an attorney can ensure you meet the requirements and succeed with the naturalization process.
The following are ways a citizenship attorney can assist you with your case:
Determining Eligibility
One of the ways an attorney can help you with dual citizenship is by determining whether you’re eligible before applying. Your ability to apply for dual citizenship will depend on a number of factors, including your family history, criminal background, and current immigrant status.
Collecting and Completing All Necessary Documents
To apply for dual citizenship, you will need to complete all the required documents and obtain sufficient supporting documentation. For example, you must file for naturalization in the U.S., become a permanent resident, and determine whether your country of origin permits dual citizenship.
You will also need to collect critical documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, passports.
Preparing for Interviews
The U.S. government may conduct an interview with you at some point during the naturalization process. Before your interview, you should know what kinds of questions officials are likely to ask you and the appropriate answers to them. Here is where an attorney can also help. Your lawyer could also be present with you during your interview if needed.
Communications
If you need to maintain effective communication between the two countries when applying, an attorney could also assist with this. He or she can serve as a liaison between agencies like U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), consulates, and embassies. In the process, he or she can facilitate a smoother naturalization process.
Providing Legal Advice
An experienced attorney will advise you on every aspect of dual citizenship. For instance, he or she could advise you on the taxation requirements and citizenship laws for both countries, while also addressing inconsistencies in your documentation or issues with your criminal background. In turn, you’ll know how to proceed and which steps to take next during your citizenship application process.
Protecting You and Understanding Your Rights
Another advantage of having an attorney by your side is the ability to better understand your rights as an immigrant and citizen in the U.S. In the event you face deportation or removal for any reason before becoming a citizen, your attorney may be able to protect you. He or she can appeal a court’s decision or otherwise argue why you should remain in the U.S.
Get in Touch With a Reputable Immigration Lawyer
Knowing more about how dual citizenship works and what it entails could help you better prepare for this process. However, going it alone could be time-consuming and daunting, which is why it’s often best to work with the right immigration attorney. A reliable lawyer could help you successfully navigate this process from beginning to end, increasing your chances of obtaining dual citizenship in the U.S. and another country.
The right lawyer will also assist with other immigration matters as needed, from getting a green card and visa to sponsoring family members to enter the U.S. on family-based visas. Regardless of your requirements as an immigrant, a good attorney will give you the representation you need.
To consult a Chicago citizenship attorney for help with dual citizenship or other matters, turn to the legal team at Cho Immigration Law today. Contact us to consult with one of our attorneys.
