Can I lose US citizenship if I become a citizen of another country?
Not unless you intend to. The US State Department says a US citizen can naturalize in another country without risking US citizenship, because loss requires a voluntary act done with the intention of giving up US nationality.
US law does not force you to choose one nationality. The State Department says you can become a citizen elsewhere without risking your US citizenship.
Federal law, 8 U.S.C. 1481, lists acts that can end US nationality. Foreign naturalization after age 18 is one of them. But the act must be voluntary and done with intent to give up US nationality.
The law places the burden of proof on whoever claims you lost citizenship. In practice, loss usually follows a formal renunciation before a US consular officer abroad. That process requires two interviews and an oath taken in person.
Dual citizens must still use a US passport to enter and leave the United States. They also remain subject to the laws of both countries, including US tax filing rules.
This is educational research, not legal advice. Confirm your situation with a US consulate or a qualified immigration professional.
Sources
- Dual Nationality · U.S. Department of State, travel.state.gov
- Relinquishing U.S. Nationality Abroad · U.S. Department of State, travel.state.gov
- 8 U.S.C. 1481: Loss of nationality by native-born or naturalized citizen · Office of the Law Revision Counsel, U.S. House of Representatives
Written and reviewed by Todd Allyn, Founder, Sovereo Intelligence Research
Facts checked Oct 8, 2026 · Next review by Oct 8, 2027
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