Many people applying for British citizenship wonder whether they can keep their existing nationality. It’s a common question when someone has spent many years in the UK and is ready to take the final step towards becoming British, but doesn’t want to lose ties to their country of origin.
In this article, we explain whether the UK recognises dual citizenship, how it works in practice and what you need to consider before applying. We also explain how to access a free 30 minute consultation with an immigration solicitor if you need advice tailored to your circumstances.
What is dual citizenship?
Dual citizenship is sometimes referred to as dual nationality. In short, it means holding citizenship of two countries at the same time. A person with dual citizenship is recognised as a citizen by both countries, although the rights and obligations attached to that citizenship may differ.
Dual citizenship can arise in a number of ways. Some people acquire it automatically at birth through their parents, while others obtain it later in life by naturalising in another country while retaining their original nationality.
Does the UK allow dual citizenship?
Yes, the UK does recognise and allow dual citizenship. In most cases, you aren’t required to give up your existing nationality when you become a British citizen.
The UK doesn’t place restrictions on holding more than one nationality and British law allows individuals to hold British citizenship alongside another citizenship. This means that becoming British doesn’t usually affect your status in another country from the UK’s perspective.
However, while the UK permits dual citizenship, other countries may have their own rules. Some countries don’t allow dual nationality or place conditions on retaining citizenship when another is acquired. This is why it’s important to check the laws of the other country involved before applying for British citizenship.
What are the practical implications of dual citizenship?
Holding dual citizenship can bring practical benefits, such as the right to live and work in more than one country and easier travel using different passports. However, it can also involve additional responsibilities.
Related: How to Prove Your Right to Work in the UK
For example, some countries require citizens to perform military service or meet tax obligations, even if they live abroad. These obligations are governed by the laws of the other country and aren’t affected by the UK’s recognition of dual citizenship.
Understanding how your other nationality treats dual citizens is an important step before making any application.
How does dual citizenship affect British passport holders?
If you hold British citizenship alongside another nationality, you are treated as a British citizen while in the UK. This means you have the same rights and responsibilities as any other British citizen, regardless of any other passports you hold.
When travelling, dual citizens are generally expected to use their British passport when entering or leaving the UK. This helps avoid confusion at the border and ensures you are admitted as a British citizen rather than under immigration control.
When travelling to or from your other country of nationality, you may be required to use that country’s passport instead. These requirements depend on the laws of the country concerned, so it’s important to check before travelling.
Does dual citizenship affect immigration status?
Once you become a British citizen, you are no longer subject to UK immigration control. This applies whether you hold one nationality or several. Your previous immigration status, such as indefinite leave to remain, effectively comes to an end once citizenship is granted.
Holding dual citizenship doesn’t reduce your rights in the UK or place you at a disadvantage under UK law. British citizens with dual nationality are entitled to live, work and study in the UK without restriction.
Can children hold dual citizenship?
Children can often hold dual citizenship, either automatically at birth or through registration. This may occur where one or both parents are British, or where a child is born in the UK and later acquires another nationality through a parent.
The rules governing children and dual citizenship can be complex and depend on the nationality laws of both countries involved. In some cases, a child may need to be registered as a British citizen to secure their status.
If you are unsure about a child’s nationality or entitlement to British citizenship, legal advice can help clarify the position and ensure the correct steps are taken.
Common misconceptions about dual citizenship
There are several misconceptions surrounding dual citizenship. One common belief is that British citizenship can be lost automatically if another nationality is acquired. This isn’t the case. British citizenship isn’t normally revoked simply because someone holds another passport.
Another misconception is that holding dual citizenship can lead to penalties or restrictions in the UK. In practice, the UK treats dual citizens in the same way as any other British citizen.
British citizenship can only be removed in very limited and serious circumstances, such as where it was obtained through fraud or where deprivation is considered conducive to the public good.
Making informed decisions about dual citizenship
While the UK recognises dual citizenship, it’s important to understand how your other nationality treats dual citizens. The consequences of acquiring British citizenship are often determined more by the laws of the other country than by UK law.
Taking advice from immigration solicitors before applying can help you understand any risks and ensure you are making an informed decision about your future status.
Please note that this article is for informational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for legal advice. We encourage readers to contact Osbourne Pinner for case specific guidance.
Start with a free 30 minute consultation at our offices or remotely. You can speak to us on a video call or visit our offices. We are based in Harrow, Canary Wharf and Piccadilly Circus. And if you are based in Manchester, our new North based office is close by too. Arrange your consultation by calling 0203 983 5080, emailing [email protected] or using the form below.
