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Dual Citizenship Rules and Which Countries Allow It

Dual citizenship means holding the nationality of two countries at once. Whether you can keep both depends on the rules of each country involved, not on a single global standard.

Reference
Official authorityEach country's citizenship or nationality authority
Information current as ofJune 2026

Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.

Written by Fredrik Filipsson and reviewed by Morten Andersen of the Passports for Kings editorial team. Last reviewed 2 June 2026.

What dual citizenship means

A dual citizen is recognised as a national by two countries at the same time, with the rights and duties each attaches to citizenship. Two questions decide whether it is possible in your case. Does the country you are joining allow new citizens to hold another nationality, and does your current country let you keep its nationality when you naturalise elsewhere.

Both answers matter, because one country permitting it does not override another that forbids it.

Countries that broadly allow it

Many countries broadly permit dual citizenship, among them the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, France, Italy, Ireland, Portugal and most of Latin America. Germany broadened its rules in 2024 to let naturalised citizens keep their original nationality in more cases.

Even where it is allowed, conditions such as registration, oaths or notification can apply, so confirm the detail with the relevant authority.

Countries that restrict or prohibit it

Some countries limit dual citizenship to particular groups or treaty partners, and others prohibit it and may treat acquiring another nationality as giving up their own. China, India, Japan and Singapore are commonly cited as not permitting dual citizenship in the ordinary case.

Spain generally allows it only with specific countries, mainly in Latin America plus a few others, and otherwise expects renunciation. Always check the current position rather than relying on general lists.

How to confirm your position

Read the nationality law of both countries, or its official summary, and look specifically at what happens when a citizen naturalises abroad and when a foreigner naturalises there. Tax, military service and inheritance can also be affected. Because these rules change, confirm with each country's official authority and a licensed professional before you act.

Common questions

Can everyone hold dual citizenship?

No. It depends on the rules of both countries. If either one prohibits it, you may have to choose. Always confirm the current law on both sides.

Does dual citizenship affect tax?

It can, because some countries tax based on citizenship or residence. Citizenship and tax residence are separate questions, so seek advice from a licensed tax professional for your situation.

Can I lose my original citizenship automatically?

In some countries, acquiring another nationality can trigger loss of the original one. Check your home country's rule on naturalisation abroad before you proceed.

Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.

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