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Dual citizenship - pros and cons |
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When deciding on dual citizenship, there are several issues that CIC urges you to consider:
Military service: Many countries still have compulsory military
service. If you are a citizen, and you meet other conditions, you may
be legally required to register for military service and to respond to
call-up orders. This legal obligation may exist even if you do not
reside in the country of your second citizenship. Your obligations
could be enforced even if you're just visiting at some point in the
future.
Taxation: Taxation arrangements between countries are complex.
If you have dual citizenship, you may encounter obligations in both
countries. These obligations should be discussed with your financial
and/or legal advisers.
Travel: If you travel with two passports, you could be subject
to increased scrutiny by immigration and security officials. You could
be questioned about missing entry or exit stamps, as well as your
reason for having two travel documents. In some countries, possession
of a second passport could result in its confiscation or a fine. You
may even be prevented from leaving the country.
Marriage, divorce and child custody: Canada recognizes the
legality of marriages performed in other countries. However, marriages
performed in Canada may not always be considered legal in other
countries. Similarly, divorce and child custody documents issued by
Canadian courts may not be recognized.
Gay marriages: Canada is one of very few countries to legalize
gay marriages. When travelling to many other countries (even across the
border to the US), there might be issues that arise on any number of
levels.
Education: If the country of your second citizenship provided
you with free education, especially at the secondary or professional
level, you may be held liable for reimbursing the costs. This is
particularly the case if you obtained the education outside the country
of your second citizenship.
Inheritances: Some countries may not permit the transfer of inheritances to nationals with a second citizenship.
CIC says preparation and knowledge are the keys to avoiding problems
associated with dual citizenship. If you have any questions or
concerns, contact the country of your second citizenship before you
travel.
Formally establish whether you are subject to any outstanding
obligations such as military service, taxation or education repayment.
This information should be confirmed in writing. Carry this document
with you when you travel - some dual citizens have received inaccurate
or incomplete information from officials representing the country of
their second citizenship.
If you do run into problems abroad because of your dual citizenship,
contact the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate immediately. If
you're unable to make contact and require immediate assistance, place a
collect call to the Operations Centre, Consular Affairs Bureau, Foreign
Affairs Canada, at (613) 996-8885, or send an e-mail to
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Canada encourages its citizens with multiple nationalities to use their
Canadian passport when travelling abroad, especially when entering the
country of their second citizenship.
Using your Canadian passport may provide the basis under which Canada
can provide you with consular assistance if you run into difficulties.
That may mean obtaining a visa, if that is required for entry by
Canadian citizens, and always presenting yourself as a Canadian when
dealing with local authorities.
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