Dual Citizenship in Canada: Rules, Benefits, and Considerations

Learn about Canada's dual citizenship policies, how it works, benefits, and potential complications to be aware of.

Canada allows dual (or multiple) citizenship. This means you can become a Canadian citizen without giving up your other nationality. Here is what you need to know.

Canada's Position on Dual Citizenship

Since 1977, Canada has allowed its citizens to hold citizenship in other countries simultaneously. There is no limit to the number of citizenships you can hold.

This Means:

You do not have to renounce your current citizenship to become Canadian

If you become a citizen of another country, you do not lose your Canadian citizenship

Your children may be eligible for citizenship in multiple countries

Benefits of Dual Citizenship

Travel

Access to two (or more) passports

Visa-free travel to more countries

The Canadian passport provides access to 180+ countries

Rights in Multiple Countries

You can live and work in both countries

You may have property rights in both countries

You can access government services in both countries

Cultural Connection

Maintain formal ties to your country of origin

Pass heritage citizenship to your children

Participate in the civic life of both countries

Important Considerations

Other Countries' Rules

Not all countries allow dual citizenship. Some countries:

Automatically revoke citizenship if you acquire another nationality

Require you to formally renounce before naturalising elsewhere

Do not recognise your Canadian citizenship while you are in their territory

Check your home country's rules before applying for Canadian citizenship.

Tax Obligations

As a Canadian citizen, you must file Canadian income taxes if you are a Canadian resident

Some countries (like the US) tax citizens on worldwide income regardless of residency

You may be subject to tax obligations in both countries

Military Service

Some countries require mandatory military service from their citizens

Dual citizens may face obligations in both countries

Entering Canada

You must always enter and leave Canada using your Canadian passport

This is a legal requirement for Canadian citizens

Consular Assistance

When in your other country of citizenship, Canada may have limited ability to provide consular assistance

Your other country may consider you solely its citizen while you are on its territory

Common Scenarios

Scenario 1: Keeping Your Original Citizenship

You are a citizen of Country X and become Canadian. Country X allows dual citizenship. You now hold both citizenships and can travel on either passport.

Scenario 2: Your Country Does Not Allow Dual Citizenship

You are a citizen of Country Y, which does not allow dual citizenship. When you become Canadian, Country Y may revoke your citizenship. Check before applying.

Scenario 3: Born in Canada to Dual-Citizen Parents

Your child is born in Canada and automatically becomes Canadian. They may also be eligible for citizenship in their parents' country of origin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to tell Canada about my other citizenship?

You should disclose your other citizenships on your citizenship application.

Can I lose my Canadian citizenship?

Canadian citizenship can only be revoked in limited circumstances (e.g., fraud in obtaining citizenship). Simply acquiring another citizenship does not affect your Canadian citizenship.

Can I vote in both countries?

This depends on both countries' laws. Some countries allow overseas voting, while others restrict voting to residents.

What passport do I use?

Use your Canadian passport when entering/leaving Canada. Use the appropriate passport for other countries.

Understanding your rights as a Canadian citizen is important. Study more about citizenship rights in our [Study Hub](/dashboard/study).