Many Canadians interested in U.S. citizenship worry about whether they will lose their Canadian passport or citizenship. This is a common question, especially for those with close ties to both countries. The good news is that you can hold citizenship in Canada and the U.S. through dual citizenship.
What Is Dual Citizenship?
Dual citizenship means a person can be a citizen of two countries simultaneously. Canada and the United States both allow this, so you do not have to choose between countries.
Canadian Law on Dual Citizenship
Canada has allowed dual citizenship since 1977. This means that becoming a U.S. citizen does not mean losing Canadian citizenship. You will still be able to hold your Canadian passport and enjoy all the rights of a Canadian citizen.
U.S. Law on Dual Citizenship
The U.S. also allows dual citizenship, but becoming a U.S. citizen involves taking an oath of allegiance to the United States. While the oath asks you to “renounce” foreign allegiances, in practice, this does not mean you must give up your original citizenship. U.S. immigration laws do not force you to choose between your Canadian citizenship and your new U.S. citizenship.
Keeping Both Passports
After becoming a U.S. citizen, you can still renew and use your Canadian passport. Likewise, you can apply for a U.S. passport once your citizenship process is complete. Having two passports can make travel between the two countries more accessible, but you must follow both rules.
- When entering the U.S., use your U.S. passport.
- When entering Canada, use your Canadian passport.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Dual Citizenship?
While dual citizenship is allowed, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Taxes: Both Canada and the U.S. have tax obligations. As a dual citizen, you may have to file taxes in both countries, although tax treaties can help avoid double taxation.
- Military Service: In rare cases, conflicts could arise if one country requires military service. However, this is not common between the U.S. and Canada.
- Legal Conflicts: Laws differ between countries, so being a citizen of two nations could lead to complications in legal matters.
Conclusion
Becoming a U.S. citizen does not mean you have to give up your Canadian citizenship. You can keep your Canadian passport and remain a citizen of both countries. If you have concerns about specific situations, it’s always a good idea to consult an immigration lawyer for personalized advice.
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