Dual Citizenship by Country: A 2026 Comprehensive Guide
- Mazlum Şen
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
In an increasingly globalized world, being tied to a single nationality can limit both professional opportunities and quality of life. Holding two passports can open doors to visa-free travel, international business expansion, enhanced education opportunities for your children, and long-term retirement planning. But is this legally possible?
In this guide, we explain what dual citizenship is, which countries allow dual citizenship, and the current frameworks in key jurisdictions ranging from Canada to the Caribbean.
What Is Dual Citizenship?
Dual citizenship (or multiple citizenship) refers to a legal status in which an individual is recognized as a citizen by two or more countries simultaneously. Individuals with dual citizenship may hold passports from both countries, own property, work, and benefit from social rights in each jurisdiction.
The critical point is this: there is no universal rule governing dual citizenship. Each country—and sometimes different application routes within the same country—has its own approach. Some countries allow dual citizenship broadly, while others permit it only under specific conditions or bilateral agreements.
Key advantages of dual citizenship include:
Visa-free travel between multiple jurisdictions
Political rights (voting and eligibility, subject to certain limitations)
Access to healthcare and education as a local citizen
Potential business and tax advantages
Who Can Become a Dual Citizen?
Dual citizenship most commonly arises through the following scenarios:
Citizenship by Birth
When parents hold different nationalities
When the country of birth applies the principle of jus soli (citizenship by birth on territory, depending on national law)
Naturalization (Investment, Marriage, Residency)
When an individual acquires a second citizenship later in lifeThe determining factor is whether both the new country and the individual’s existing country permit dual citizenship.
Citizenship by Descent or Restoration
Some countries grant citizenship based on ancestry or allow restoration of previously lost citizenship. Dual citizenship policies in these cases vary by country.
Which Countries Allow Dual Citizenship?
Globally, approaches to dual citizenship have become more flexible in recent years. Below is an overview of selected countries and their general stance:
Country | General Position | Notes |
Canada | Permitted | Generally allowed |
United States | Recognized | “Dual nationality” framework; case-specific considerations |
United Kingdom | Permitted | Generally allowed |
Malta | Permitted | Multiple citizenship allowed since 2000 |
Germany | More flexible | Significantly expanded dual citizenship acceptance |
Bosnia and Herzegovina | Limited | Usually requires bilateral agreement |
Montenegro | Restricted | Limited acceptance with exceptions |
Greece | Generally permitted | Details vary by application route |
Romania | Permitted | Generally allowed |
Serbia | Permitted | Dual citizenship recognized in law |
Country-Specific Considerations
Canada
Canada permits dual citizenship. In most cases, individuals acquiring Canadian citizenship can retain their existing nationality. However, obligations under the original country’s laws must also be assessed.
United States
The U.S. recognizes the concept of dual nationality. Individuals are expected to comply with the legal obligations of both countries. Taxation, military service, and other legal responsibilities should be carefully reviewed.
Malta
Malta has permitted dual and multiple citizenship since 2000. Individuals acquiring Maltese citizenship generally face no restrictions from Malta’s side. The policy of the applicant’s original country should still be reviewed.
Caribbean Countries
Many Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs allow dual citizenship. However, each country’s legislation and program structure differ.
Malta and several Caribbean jurisdictions are among the most liberal in terms of dual citizenship frameworks.
Malta: Provides EU citizenship while allowing applicants to retain their original nationality.
Caribbean countries (Antigua & Barbuda, Grenada, St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, etc.): Typically recognize dual citizenship and do not automatically disclose citizenship information to third countries, subject to international compliance regulations.
Germany
Following reforms introduced in 2024, Germany adopted a significantly more flexible dual citizenship framework. Many applicants are no longer required to renounce their original nationality, although individual circumstances and application routes remain decisive.
Greece
Dual citizenship is generally possible in Greece, though specific requirements depend on the route of acquisition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Is Dual Citizenship Obtained?
The general process follows this logic:
Identify the target country (citizenship or residency route).
Select the appropriate application pathway (investment, descent, marriage, residency transition, etc.).
Confirm dual citizenship compatibility in both jurisdictions (current nationality + target country).
Prepare documentation (identity, criminal records, financial proof, family documents).
Submit the application and complete procedural steps (interviews, biometrics, oath ceremonies depending on country).
The most common mistake is selecting a program before verifying dual citizenship compatibility.
Which European Countries Allow Dual Citizenship?
Malta operates within a framework that permits dual citizenship.
Germany’s 2024 reforms introduced significant flexibility.
Across Europe, policies vary substantially; therefore, country selection and application route must be evaluated together.
Managing the Process Securely with Sen International
At Sen International, we:
Conduct comprehensive eligibility assessments
Define country and program selection based on clear criteria
Evaluate documentation within a strict legal framework
Manage the process end-to-end with transparent communication
For detailed information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us.
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