Quick Answer: Canada's Dual Citizenship Policy 

The short answer is no – Canada does not require you to give up your original citizenship when you become Canadian. Under Canadian law, you can be both a Canadian citizen and a citizen of another country. However, the key factor is whether your home country allows dual citizenship. Some countries won't let you keep their citizenship if you become a Canadian citizen.

Canada has embraced dual citizenship since 1977, recognizing that in our interconnected world, people maintain meaningful ties to multiple countries. This policy reflects Canada's multicultural values and understanding that new Canadians often want to preserve their cultural heritage and family connections.

Understanding Dual Citizenship in Canada

Every country decides whom it considers to be a citizen. If more than one country recognizes you as a citizen, you have dual citizenship. This status isn't something you actively apply for – it's simply the legal recognition by multiple countries that you belong to their nation.

You don't apply for dual citizenship, and there is no related certificate. Canadians are allowed to take foreign citizenship while keeping their Canadian citizenship. This means that if you're already a Canadian citizen and want to obtain citizenship elsewhere, Canada won't revoke your Canadian status (though the other country's laws still apply).

What Makes Someone a Dual Citizen?

You may become a dual citizen through various circumstances:

• Birth in Canada to parents who are citizens of another country
• Birth abroad to Canadian parents while holding citizenship of your birth country
• Naturalization as a Canadian citizen while retaining your original citizenship
• Marriage to a Canadian citizen (though marriage alone doesn't grant citizenship)
• Descent through Canadian parents or grandparents

The automatic nature of dual citizenship means many people don't realize they have it until they need to travel or access services from both countries.

How Canada Views Dual Citizenship 

Canada's approach to dual citizenship is notably liberal compared to many other nations. The Canadian government recognizes that dual citizenship can strengthen ties between Canada and other countries, facilitating trade, cultural exchange, and diplomatic relationships.

Ask the embassy of your country of citizenship about its rules before applying for Canadian citizenship. This advice from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) emphasizes that while Canada is accommodating, prospective citizens must understand their home country's position.

Benefits Canada Sees in Dual Citizenship

The Canadian government views dual citizenship positively because it:

• Facilitates integration of newcomers who maintain family ties abroad
• Strengthens Canada's international relationships
• Supports Canada's multicultural identity
• Enables Canadians to work and travel more freely globally
• Maintains cultural and linguistic diversity within Canada

Countries That Don't Allow Dual Citizenship 

While Canada welcomes dual citizens, many countries around the world have restrictions or prohibitions on holding multiple citizenships. Understanding these restrictions is crucial before beginning your Canadian citizenship application.

Countries with Automatic Loss of Citizenship

Some countries automatically revoke your citizenship when you voluntarily acquire another nationality:

China: The People's Republic of China does not recognize dual nationality for any Chinese national. Chinese nationals who have been naturalized as citizens of a foreign nation or obtain by their own free will a foreign nationality will automatically lose their Chinese citizenship.

Singapore: Singapore generally requires citizens to renounce other citizenships, though there are limited exceptions.

South Korea: Korean citizens who acquire foreign nationality automatically lose Korean citizenship, with some exceptions for those who acquired Korean citizenship by birth.

Nepal: Nepal does not recognize dual citizenship and requires renunciation of other citizenships.

Japan: Japan generally requires renunciation of other citizenships, though enforcement can vary.

Countries with Conditional Dual Citizenship

Some nations allow dual citizenship but with specific conditions or restrictions:

India: While India doesn't allow dual citizenship, they offer Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status, which provides many benefits without full citizenship.

Germany: Germany has complex rules that vary based on how citizenship was acquired and the other country involved.

Countries That Allow Dual Citizenship with Canada 

Many countries readily accept dual citizenship, making the transition to Canadian citizenship smoother for their nationals.

Countries with Full Dual Citizenship Recognition

United States: The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but other countries may not—check your home country's laws. Americans can freely become Canadian citizens without losing their U.S. status.

France: French nationals are not required to give up their French citizenship if they obtain citizenship of a foreign country, including Canada. There are no special conditions or limitations to France's allowance of dual citizenship.

United Kingdom: The UK allows dual citizenship without restrictions, making it straightforward for British citizens to become Canadian.

Nigeria: Under Nigerian law, you are permitted to hold dual citizenship and be recognized as a citizen of two countries if you gained your Nigerian citizenship at birth or through descent.

Syria: Syria allows its citizens to maintain dual citizenship. Accordingly, if you wish to obtain Canadian citizenship, you are not required to renounce your Syrian citizenship.

Ireland: Ireland fully recognizes dual citizenship and doesn't require Irish citizens to renounce their Irish nationality.

Italy: Italy allows dual citizenship and even enables descendants of Italian citizens to reclaim Italian citizenship.

Australia: Australia permits dual citizenship, though they have specific military service considerations for dual citizens.

What Happens During the Canadian Citizenship Process 

When you apply for Canadian citizenship, the process doesn't automatically affect your original citizenship status. Here's what actually happens:

The Oath of Citizenship

During your citizenship ceremony, you'll take the Oath of Citizenship, which includes a pledge of allegiance to Canada. Importantly, this oath doesn't include any requirement to renounce other citizenships. The oath states:

"I swear (or affirm) that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Queen of Canada, Her Heirs and Successors, and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Canada, including the Constitution, which recognizes and affirms the Aboriginal and treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples, and fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen."

IRCC's Role and Limitations

IRCC processes your Canadian citizenship application but doesn't communicate with your home country about your citizenship status. The Canadian government:

• Does not notify your home country of your new Canadian citizenship
• Does not require proof of renunciation from other countries
• Does not investigate whether other countries will revoke your citizenship
• Does recommend checking with your home country's embassy before applying

This means the responsibility lies entirely with you to understand and comply with your home country's laws.

Timeline and Documentation

The citizenship process typically takes 10 months from application to ceremony. During this time, you should:

1. Research your home country's dual citizenship laws
2. Contact your home country's embassy or consulate
3. Understand any potential consequences
4. Make an informed decision about proceeding

Rights and Responsibilities of Dual Citizens 

Holding dual citizenship brings both benefits and obligations that you must carefully consider.

Rights as a Dual Citizen

As a Canadian-[Other Country] dual citizen, you typically have:

• Full voting rights in both countries (where permitted)
• Unrestricted travel between both countries
• Work authorization in both countries without permits
• Access to social services in both countries
• Consular protection from both countries (with limitations)
• Property ownership rights in both countries
• Educational benefits including domestic tuition rates

Responsibilities and Obligations

Dual citizenship also means dual responsibilities:

• Tax obligations in both countries (though tax treaties may prevent double taxation)
• Military service requirements where applicable
• Legal compliance with laws of both countries
• Court jurisdiction – you may be subject to legal proceedings in either country
• Documentary requirements for travel and identification

Practical Considerations

Dual citizens must use a Canadian passport for air travel to/from Canada. This requirement ensures smooth entry and demonstrates your right to enter Canada without question.

When traveling to your other country of citizenship, you may need to use that country's passport for entry and exit. This dual passport requirement can complicate travel but also provides flexibility in international movement.

Travel Considerations for Dual Citizens

Dual citizenship significantly impacts how you travel internationally, with both advantages and potential complications.

Passport Requirements

If you are a Canadian with dual citizenship, you need to carry a valid Canadian passport to return to Canada by air. This requirement is non-negotiable and applies regardless of what other passports you hold.

When traveling to your other country of citizenship, that country may require you to enter and exit using their passport. This means dual citizens often need to carry multiple passports and use them strategically depending on their destination.

Potential Travel Complications

You may be forced to give up your Canadian citizenship or be required to renounce your other citizenship. While rare, some countries may pressure dual citizens during visits, especially during periods of political tension.

Other potential issues include:

• Enhanced screening at borders due to dual citizenship status
• Exit restrictions in some countries for their own citizens
• Military service requirements that could be enforced upon entry
• Tax obligations that could affect your ability to leave certain countries

Consular Services Limitations

Based on the country's laws, local authorities could be within their right to prevent Canadian consular officials from assisting you in a consular emergency. Local authorities may refuse your request to access Canadian consular services.

This limitation is particularly important to understand because it means when you're in your other country of citizenship, Canada's ability to help you may be restricted. The other country may treat you primarily as their citizen, limiting Canadian diplomatic intervention.

Tax Implications of Dual Citizenship 

One of the most complex aspects of dual citizenship involves taxation, as you may have obligations to both countries.

Canadian Tax Obligations

As a Canadian citizen, you're generally required to report worldwide income to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) if you're a Canadian tax resident. This applies regardless of where the income is earned or whether you live in Canada full-time.

Foreign Tax Obligations

Many countries tax their citizens on worldwide income regardless of where they live. The United States is the most notable example, requiring all U.S. citizens to file annual tax returns regardless of their residence.

Professional Tax Advice

Given the complexity of international taxation, dual citizens should consult with tax professionals familiar with both countries' tax systems. This is particularly important for:

• Business owners with international operations
• Individuals with investment income in multiple countries
• Retirees with pension income from different countries
• Professionals working internationally

How to Check Your Country's Dual Citizenship Laws 

Before applying for Canadian citizenship, you must research your home country's position on dual citizenship.

Steps to Research Dual Citizenship Laws

1. Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Canada – This is the most reliable source for current information
2. Visit your country's official government websites – Look for citizenship or immigration departments
3. Consult with immigration lawyers familiar with your country's laws
4. Check recent legal changes – Citizenship laws can change, so ensure information is current
5. Get written confirmation – When possible, obtain written documentation of the rules

Questions to Ask Your Embassy

When contacting your embassy or consulate, ask specific questions:

• Will I automatically lose my citizenship if I become Canadian?
• Are there any procedures to maintain my citizenship?
• What documentation do I need to provide?
• Are there any exceptions or special circumstances?
• How do I regain citizenship if it's lost?
• What are the implications for my children?

Conclusion

The question "Do I lose my original citizenship when I become Canadian?" has a clear answer: Canada will never require you to give up your original citizenship. However, your home country may have different rules that could result in automatic loss of your original nationality.

Ask the embassy of your country of citizenship about its rules before applying for Canadian citizenship. This simple step can save you from unexpected complications and help you make an informed decision about your citizenship journey.

The path to Canadian citizenship is an exciting journey that opens doors to new opportunities while potentially allowing you to maintain your cultural heritage and family connections. Understanding dual citizenship laws ensures you can embrace your Canadian future while protecting your existing rights and relationships.

Ready to start your Canadian citizenship journey? Mirzoyan Immigration Services specializes in helping individuals navigate the complex citizenship application process. As a regulated Canadian immigration consulting firm based in Toronto, we understand the nuances of dual citizenship and can provide personalized guidance based on your specific country of origin. Our experienced team, led by Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant Narek Mirzoyan (RCIC#R1005184), can help you understand your options, prepare a strong application, and address any dual citizenship concerns that may arise during your process.

Contact Mirzoyan Immigration Services today for a comprehensive consultation. We'll assess your unique situation, research your home country's dual citizenship laws, and guide you through every step of becoming a proud Canadian citizen while protecting your existing rights and status.

Contact Information:

Phone: +1 (888) 636- 2122

Email: info@mirzoyanimmigration.ca

Website: https://www.mirzoyanimmigration.ca

Note: None of the above statements are legal advice and are not meant to be the same for everyone. You must check the latest policy from the IRCC website before applying. Although everything is clearly stated on the official website, you may want to seek legal advice if you have any questions or concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will Canada force me to renounce my other citizenship?

No, Canada never requires applicants to renounce other citizenships. Under Canadian law, you can be both a Canadian citizen and a citizen of another country. The Canadian government actively supports dual citizenship as part of its multicultural values.

2. How do I know if my country allows dual citizenship?

The consulate or embassy of your other country of citizenship can tell you whether this applies to you. Contact them directly before applying for Canadian citizenship to understand your country's specific rules and any potential consequences.

3. What happens to my children's citizenship status?

Children's citizenship depends on several factors including where they were born, their parents' citizenship at birth, and the specific laws of each country involved. Some countries automatically grant citizenship to children born to their citizens abroad, while others don't. Research both countries' laws regarding childhood citizenship.

4. Can I get my original citizenship back if I lose it?

This depends entirely on your home country's laws. Some countries have procedures for former citizens to regain citizenship, while others make it extremely difficult or impossible. Research restoration procedures before making your decision to become Canadian.

5. Do I need to inform my home country when I become Canadian?

While Canada doesn't require this, your home country may have notification requirements. Some countries require their citizens to report acquisition of foreign citizenship, while others may revoke citizenship if they discover it through other means. Check your country's specific requirements to avoid unexpected citizenship loss.