In the following article, we explore the concepts of dual citizenship and second citizenship, highlighting their distinctions, legality, acquisition methods, and associated benefits and drawbacks.

Comparing Dual Citizenship and Second Citizenship

The distinction between dual citizenship and second citizenship lies in their legal frameworks and recognition. So, both dual and second citizenship entail individuals holding citizenship in two countries simultaneously. However, the key difference emerges from the existence of a formal agreement between the nations involved. Dual citizenship is facilitated by such agreements, allowing for coordinated regulation of the rights and obligations of dual citizens. Conversely, second citizenship occurs when individuals hold passports from two countries without a formal agreement, so each country independently recognizes the individual as its citizen.

The Concept of Dual Citizenship

Dual citizenship is a legal concept that enables individuals to be citizens of two countries simultaneously. This is possible when two countries have entered into a bilateral agreement on dual citizenship. Under this framework, holders of dual citizenship possess rights and obligations in both countries. The parties to the agreement exchange information about dual citizens and cooperate in regulating their status. Essentially, the civil status of dual citizens is jointly regulated by the two countries involved.

The Concept of Second Citizenship

Second citizenship provides individuals with the opportunity to hold two national passports concurrently. Unlike dual citizenship, second citizenship does not require a formal agreement between the countries involved. Instead, each country independently recognizes the individual as its citizen, disregarding their citizenship in the other country. Consequently, individuals with second citizenship may navigate legal obligations and privileges in each country separately. While acquiring second citizenship may not be detected by one’s home country, disclosure of this status is mandatory in certain jurisdictions.

 The Essential Differences 

The disparities between dual citizenship and second citizenship can be summarized into two main characteristics:

• Bilateral Agreement: The primary distinction lies in the presence or absence of a bilateral agreement on dual citizenship between the countries involved. Dual citizenship is facilitated by such agreements, allowing for coordinated regulation of the rights and obligations of dual citizens. Conversely, second citizenship occurs in the absence of such agreements, with each country independently recognizing the individual as its citizen.
• Treatment of Holders: Another key difference pertains to how holders of two passports are perceived by each country. In the case of second citizenship, each country regards the individual solely as its citizen, disregarding their citizenship in the other country. Conversely, with dual citizenship, each country acknowledges the public duties that the individual holds in the other country, leading to a more interconnected status for dual citizens.

Pros and Cons of Dual and Second Citizenships

Dual Citizenship:

• Advantages:
  • Dual citizenship enables legal residence in either of the countries;
  • Individuals can engage in business activities, property ownership, and other legal transactions in both countries;
  • Access to assistance from diplomatic missions of either country when abroad is available;
  • Public duties such as taxation or military service are typically required only in one of the two countries.
• Disadvantages:
  • Utilizing advantages concurrently in both countries is not feasible; individuals must adhere to the laws of their country of residence;
  • Restrictions often apply to dual citizens regarding public office, parliamentary membership, law enforcement roles, and secret service positions.

Second Citizenship:

• Advantages:
  • The number of countries with bilateral agreements on dual citizenship is limited, providing more opportunities for obtaining second citizenship;
  • Acquisition of second citizenship can be kept confidential unless mandated otherwise by the home country’s legislation.
• Disadvantages:
  • Additional obligations may arise for individuals holding two passports if the countries lack a dual citizenship agreement. For instance, military service requirements may apply in both countries;
  • Second passport holders may face limitations on holding public office, working in law enforcement agencies, and accessing state secrets.

Ways to Get Second or Dual Citizenship

In practice, second citizenship is a lot easier to receive than dual citizenship. Here are some important features of both programs.

• By Descent (Right of Blood): Entitlement to citizenship of a foreign country is typically granted if one of your parents is a foreign citizen. Some countries extend citizenship to individuals who can prove ancestry several generations back.
• By Birth (Right of Soil): Certain countries confer citizenship upon anyone born within their territories, even if the parents are foreigners. Notable examples include the United States, Argentina, and Brazil.
• By Naturalization: Second citizenship can be obtained through naturalization by residing in a foreign country for a specified period, typically ranging from 2 to 20 years. Applicants often need to pass language and history tests, with expedited processes available for those attending foreign universities, joining the military, or marrying a citizen.
• By Investment: Investment in a foreign country’s economy, such as real estate, securities, or business ventures, can lead to second citizenship. Some nations offer citizenship for substantial contributions to state funds or job creation, with requirements to maintain investments for several years to retain citizenship. The timeframe for citizenship acquisition through investment ranges from 2 months to 3 years.
• By Outstanding Service: Exceptional individuals, including scientists, artists, and athletes, may be granted citizenship by foreign governments as recognition for their contributions.

Obtaining Dual Citizenship                 

Alternative Routes to Dual Citizenship:

• Children of Dual Citizenship Holders: Typically, children born to parents with dual citizenship automatically qualify for dual citizenship themselves. However, in some cases, they may be required to renounce citizenship of one country upon reaching adulthood.
• Children Born in International Marriages: Children born to parents of different nationalities in an international marriage often qualify for dual citizenship.
• Adopted Children: Children adopted by foreign families may also become dual citizenship holders, depending on the laws and regulations of the countries involved.

Each national state has a certain approach to dual citizenship. Some countries allow it, some others disallow it, and still some others allow dual citizenship under certain conditions or with certain limitations. To get the most up-to-date information please contact our team of experts.