Dual citizenship means being a national of two countries at once, with two passports. Whether you may hold both is decided by two sets of rules: those of the country you are joining, and those of the country, or countries, you already belong to. Most people check the first and forget the second.
The new country's rules
This part is simple. Every citizenship programme on this site is in a country that allows you to keep your existing nationality. You are not asked to give anything up.
Your current country's rules
This is where the risk lies. Countries take one of four positions.
| Your country's position | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Allows a second citizenship freely | Nothing to do |
| Allows it with permission or notice | Apply or notify before you take the new citizenship |
| Does not allow it | You may be required to give one up |
| Removes your citizenship automatically | You could lose your nationality the moment you take another |
The last position is the one that catches people out. In some countries nobody has to make a decision: the law simply treats you as having given up your nationality when you choose another.
Six questions to ask about your own country
- Would I lose my citizenship by taking another?
- Do I need permission, or to tell anyone, and by when?
- Would it affect my right to own property, inherit, or hold a public or official position?
- What happens to my children's nationality?
- Are there duties that would still apply to me, such as military service?
- Does my country tax its citizens wherever they live? A small number do.
The rules differ widely, and they change. Ask a lawyer qualified in your own country, or your government's nationality office, before you apply. Do not rely on a general guide for this, including this one.
Check your own country's rules before you look at anyone else's.
Living with two nationalities
- Travel. Many countries expect you to enter and leave on their own passport if you are one of their citizens.
- Help abroad. When you are in one of your two countries, the other can usually do little to help you there.
- Names and documents. Keep your name, date of birth and other details identical on both passports.
If your country does not allow it
You still have options. A residence programme gives your family a second home and, in Europe, travel across the Schengen Area, without changing your nationality at all. What is residency by investment? explains how.
Keep in mind that the same question comes back later if a residence programme leads you towards citizenship of that country.
Figures are indicative and reviewed on 4 October 2026. This guide is general information, not legal advice.
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