One of the most common questions from people seeking naturalization is whether they can keep their original citizenship. Here is a plain-English overview.
Does the US allow dual citizenship?
The United States permits dual citizenship and does not require naturalized citizens to formally give up citizenship in their country of origin. Many Americans hold two passports.
What about the Oath of Allegiance?
The naturalization oath includes renouncing allegiance to other countries. In practice, the U.S. still allows you to keep another nationality — but your other country’s laws decide whether it lets you keep its citizenship. Some countries do not allow dual citizenship.
Practical things to consider
- Passports: U.S. citizens must enter and leave the U.S. on a U.S. passport.
- Taxes: U.S. citizens are generally taxed on worldwide income, regardless of where they live.
- Other country’s rules: always check whether your birth country permits dual nationality.
Bottom line
The U.S. side usually allows you to keep your original citizenship — the deciding factor is your other country’s law. Check with both governments before you naturalize.
Practice now: Take the free US citizenship practice test or study the three branches of government.
Independent free study resource, not affiliated with USCIS or the U.S. government and not legal advice. Confirm current rules at uscis.gov.
{“@context”:”https://schema.org”,”@type”:”FAQPage”,”mainEntity”:[{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”Does the US allow dual citizenship?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”Yes. The U.S. permits dual citizenship and does not require you to give up your original citizenship – but your other country’s laws decide whether it allows it.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”Which passport do US dual citizens use?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”U.S. citizens must enter and leave the United States using a U.S. passport.”}}]}