When you have Canadian dual citizenship, you are a citizen of Canada and another country at the same time. Dual citizenship is available only when governments of both countries have signed an agreement permitting it. Obtaining dual citizenship typically requires following a specific legal process that includes completing an application, taking a test, and paying the required fees.
About 49 percent of the world’s nations allow their citizens to hold dual citizenship, and Canada is one of them.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Canadian Dual Citizenship?
Advantages of Canadian dual citizenship include the following:
- Living and working in either country
- Owning property in either country
- Obtaining passports for both countries, which can make travel easier
- Voting in both countries
Possible disadvantages of dual citizenship are listed below:
- Being taxed in both countries
- Being subject to the laws of both countries—for example, laws governing military service
Automatic Canadian Citizenship
In certain cases, a person may already have dual citizenship in Canada, eliminating the need to make a special application.
- Children who are born in Canada are automatically Canadian citizens, even if their parents are not Canadian citizens.
- When a child of Canadian citizens is born outside Canada, that child is automatically a Canadian citizen as well.*
*Note that, after April 2009, inheriting Canadian citizenship in this way is granted only for one generation. So a child born outside of Canada after April 2009 to a Canadian citizen parent who inherited their own citizenship is not an automatic Canadian citizen at birth (The Way Immigration).
When a non-Canadian marries a Canadian citizen, Canadian citizenship is not automatically granted to the spouse. The spouse must follow the same application for citizenship as anyone else.
How Do Non-Canadians Qualify for Canadian Dual Citizenship?
When applying to become a Canadian citizen, be sure to check Canada's page for citizenship application to see the most recent requirements. Below are some basic requirements that you might see listed:
- You are a permanent resident.
- You have lived in Canada for 3 of the last 5 years.
- You have filed your taxes, if you need to.
- You pass a citizenship test.
- You prove your language skills.
Depending on your situation, you may be able to apply for Canadian citizenship online. Otherwise, you can request a paper application package.
Applying for dual citizenship is not permitted in some situations—for example, if a person has committed a crime or is under a removal order from Canadian authorities.
Dual Citizenship in Other Countries for Canadians
Canadians can take on another citizenship without losing their Canadian citizenship. To gain citizenship in another country in addition to Canada, look into the dual citizenship requirements for that country.
The country’s embassy is a good source of information. You may also want to get legal counsel. Be aware that some countries might require you to renounce your previous citizenship to become a citizen of the new country.
Is dual citizenship right for you? Only you can decide. A careful look at the requirements and results will help you make the best decision.
Your Journey of Discovery
Do you want to learn more about Canada and Canadian research? Take a look at the following resources:
- Canada Genealogy (FamilySearch Wiki)
- Canada Events and Research (FamilySearch Community)
- Canada Research Courses (FamilySearch Learning Center)
- Canada Historical Records (FamilySearch Historical Records)
- RootsTech Videos
Discover More about Your Canadian Heritage
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