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Dual Citizenship

Information on holding Canadian citizenship alongside citizenship of another country, as Canada allows dual citizenship.

Sections

1. Overview of Dual Citizenship in Canada

Canada allows its citizens to hold dual or multiple citizenships. This means that Canadian citizens can acquire citizenship in another country without losing their Canadian citizenship, and foreign nationals can become Canadian citizens while retaining their original citizenship (if their home country permits it).

Canada does not require individuals to renounce their previous citizenship(s) when they become Canadian citizens. However, the rules for dual citizenship vary depending on the laws of the other country involved.

2. National Regulations on Dual Citizenship

Key Points:

  • Legal Basis: Dual citizenship is permitted under the Citizenship Act of Canada. There are no restrictions or penalties for holding multiple citizenships.
  • Automatic Loss of Citizenship: Canada does not automatically revoke citizenship if you acquire another nationality.
  • Obligations: Dual citizens are subject to the laws and obligations of both countries where they hold citizenship. For example:
    • Military Service: Some countries may require military service from their citizens.
    • Taxes: Dual citizens may have tax obligations in both countries, depending on tax treaties and local laws.
    • Travel Documents: Dual citizens must use their Canadian passport to enter and leave Canada, even if they hold another passport.

Rights and Responsibilities:

Dual citizens enjoy the same rights and responsibilities as single-citizenship Canadians, including voting, healthcare access, and legal protections. However, they must also adhere to the laws of their other country of citizenship.

3. Costs Associated with Dual Citizenship

The costs of obtaining and maintaining dual citizenship in Canada depend on the process you follow. Below are the typical costs:

For Becoming a Canadian Citizen:

  • Application Fee for Adults (18 and older): CAD $630 (as of 2023).
    • This includes a CAD $530 processing fee and a CAD $100 right of citizenship fee.
  • Application Fee for Minors (under 18): CAD $100.
  • Language Tests (if required): Costs vary depending on the test provider (e.g., IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF for French).
  • Citizenship Test and Ceremony: No additional cost beyond the application fee.

For Maintaining Dual Citizenship:

  • Passport Renewal: Canadian passports must be renewed every 5 or 10 years.
    • 5-year passport: CAD $120.
    • 10-year passport: CAD $160.
  • Other Costs: Depending on your other citizenship, you may need to pay for passport renewals, taxes, or other administrative fees in your second country.

4. Standard Procedures for Dual Citizenship

A. Becoming a Canadian Citizen (if you are a foreign national):

  1. Eligibility Requirements:

    • Be a permanent resident (PR) of Canada.
    • Have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the past 5 years.
    • Meet the income tax filing requirements for at least 3 years within the 5-year period.
    • Demonstrate language proficiency in English or French (for applicants aged 18-54).
    • Pass the citizenship test (for applicants aged 18-54).

  2. Application Process:

    • Complete the Application for Canadian Citizenship form.
    • Gather required documents (e.g., PR card, language test results, tax records).
    • Pay the application fee.
    • Submit your application online or by mail.
    • Attend the citizenship test and interview (if required).
    • Take the Oath of Citizenship at a citizenship ceremony.

  3. Receive Canadian Citizenship:

    • Once you take the Oath of Citizenship, you officially become a Canadian citizen and can hold dual citizenship if your original country allows it.

B. Retaining Canadian Citizenship While Acquiring Another Citizenship:

  • If you are already a Canadian citizen, you can apply for citizenship in another country without losing your Canadian citizenship. However, you must check the laws of the other country to ensure they allow dual citizenship.

5. Country-Specific Considerations

While Canada permits dual citizenship, not all countries do. Here are some examples of how other countries handle dual citizenship:

Countries That Allow Dual Citizenship:

  • United States: U.S. citizens can hold dual citizenship with Canada.
  • United Kingdom: British citizens can hold dual citizenship with Canada.
  • France: French citizens can hold dual citizenship with Canada.
  • Australia: Australian citizens can hold dual citizenship with Canada.

Countries That Restrict or Prohibit Dual Citizenship:

  • India: India does not allow dual citizenship. However, Indian citizens who acquire Canadian citizenship can apply for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, which grants them certain privileges in India.
  • China: China does not recognize dual citizenship. Chinese citizens who acquire Canadian citizenship automatically lose their Chinese citizenship.
  • Japan: Japan requires individuals to choose one citizenship by the age of 22 if they hold dual citizenship at birth.

Travel Considerations:

  • Dual citizens must use their Canadian passport to enter and leave Canada.
  • Some countries may require you to use their passport when entering or exiting their territory.

6. Benefits and Challenges of Dual Citizenship

Benefits:

  • Increased Mobility: Dual citizens can travel more freely between their two countries and may have access to visa-free travel to more destinations.
  • Access to Services: Dual citizens can access healthcare, education, and other benefits in both countries.
  • Cultural and Economic Opportunities: Dual citizenship allows individuals to maintain ties to their heritage while enjoying opportunities in Canada.

Challenges:

  • Legal Obligations: Dual citizens must comply with the laws of both countries, which can sometimes conflict.
  • Taxation: Some countries, like the U.S., tax their citizens on worldwide income, even if they live abroad.
  • Military Service: Some countries may require mandatory military service for their citizens.
  • Complexity in Travel: Dual citizens may need to carry and manage multiple passports.

7. Additional Resources

  • Government of Canada Citizenship Information: Canada.ca - Citizenship
  • Dual Citizenship FAQs: IRCC Dual Citizenship Guide
  • Country-Specific Rules: Check with the embassy or consulate of your other country of citizenship for specific rules and requirements.

8. Final Notes

Dual citizenship in Canada is a flexible and advantageous status for many individuals, but it comes with responsibilities. It is essential to understand the laws of both Canada and your other country of citizenship to avoid legal or administrative complications. If you are unsure about your situation, consider consulting an immigration lawyer or a legal expert specializing in dual citizenship.

Let me know if you need further clarification or assistance!