Dual (or Multiple) Citizenship

Dual citizenship is the result of the interaction of the laws of two countries. People can become dual citizens automatically (normally by birth or marriage), or after successfully applying for the citizenship of another country.

When it comes to multiple citizenship – often also referred to as dual citizenship – the world is divided: there are countries whose citizenship laws allow their own citizens to acquire another citizenship without losing their present citizenship. In contrast, other countries do not allow the acquisition or holding of another citizenship, i.e. the acquisition of another citizenship may lead to the loss of the present citizenship.

Accordingly, the acquisition of an alternative, second citizenship is only legally possible for citizens of those countries which allow dual citizenship.

The following is an overview of citizenship laws in selected countries with regard to dual citizenship. The information is based on Henley & Partners’ interpretation of citizenship legislation in the relevant countries.