Dual Citizenship Rules Explained: Countries That Allow or Restrict It

The world feels more connected in the present time, which increases the need for dual citizenship for a lot of people, especially business owners, entrepreneurs, remote workers, and professionals. These forward-thinking individuals work remotely, manage and expand their business on a global scale, attend business meetings, go on business trips, and want a better future for their families. 

One passport is not enough to fulfill all their dreams and to provide their families with a successful and prosperous future. So, it is crucial that these individuals understand what dual nationality means, what the significant advantages of dual citizenship are, and which are the countries that allow dual nationality today. Many countries offer dual citizenship under their investment migration programs. 

Understanding Dual Citizenship and Why It Matters Today

Dual Citizenship Meaning

Dual nationality means a person having a passport of two nations, or in simple terms, we can say having nationality of two countries at the same time. This allows them to enjoy the benefits of living in both countries. For instance, people having passports of Pakistan and Portugal means they belong to both countries and can benefit from education, healthcare, and other facilities in both countries. 

What Dual Nationality Means in Legal Terms

In legal terms, a person can be a citizen of two countries at the same time and be called ‘Dual citizen or dual National’; however, he/she should know the policies, rights, and obligations of both countries. Not all countries allow dual citizenship, so it is important to understand the countries that allow dual citizenship and the ones that do not. 

Advantages of Dual Nationality

Why People Seek Dual Citizenship Today

Consider yourself a businessman who has to go on a business trip immediately and does not have the time to fill out long forms, appear for interviews, and go through the whole process of visa application. Other than that, facing visa rejection at that time feels like a nightmare, that is where you should know how dual citizenship can save your time. A passport from another country will help you plan your trips immediately and manage your international work efficiently. You do not have to go through tiresome and long visa procedures and even get the privilege of enjoying benefits like the following:

Travel Freedom

Visa restrictions of some countries stop people from travelling abroad whether for exploring international business markets or for managing their work. On the other hand dual nationals have easy access to most countries due to a strong second passport. 

They enjoy global mobility and travel freedom such as the Portugal dual citizenship offers immense travel freedom to individuals letting them live, work, and travel visa-free across the entire EU Schengen zone including 29 countries. This provides dual nationals a chance to explore and understand international markets. 

Residency, Work, and Business Rights

Dual Nationals can live, work, study, and manage businesses in other countries. 

Access to Education

Dual Nationals along with their families can access the healthcare services, social systems,  and education of multiple countries. 

Security and Political Stability

During times of political instability, economic uncertainties, or even war conflicts, dual nationals having a passport of another country can relocate to that country for their safety and security. 

Generational Advantages

Citizenship can also be passed to children, providing generational and long-term benefits to the dual nationals.

Countries That Allow Dual Citizenship

Below table does not include all countries that allow dual citizenship but some key destinations only:

Countries That Restrict or Do Not Allow Dual Citizenship

Asia

Other Regions

Some of the above countries impose full bans, while some have certain restrictions. 

How to Get Dual Citizenship

Individuals can become dual nationals:

• By Birth

• By Descent

• By Naturalization

• By Marriage

• By the Investment programs of some countries.

What Dual Nationals Should Be Aware of 

The dual nationals should always be careful about the following:

• Tax obligations

• Military service of a specific country

• Passport usage rules

• Compliance with the legal systems of both countries. 

Conclusion

Dual nationality is crucial for individuals today for safety and stability. One of the major benefits of dual citizenship is that it allows you to enjoy travel freedom and global mobility. Moreover, dual nationals do not limit themselves to one border, but expand and manage their business on a global scale. Many countries, such as Portugal and Dominica, allow dual citizenship under their residency and citizenship programs.