You might be able to maintain your present citizenship while also applying to become a Canadian citizen, depending on the laws of your country. As Canada allows foreign individuals to preserve their original citizenship in addition to their Canadian one, many immigrants who pursue citizenship can have two passports at any given time. Dual citizenship is the term used for this.

Immigrants who gain citizenship in Canada will continue to have their original citizenship in addition to their new citizenship, provided their place of origin permits it – as giving up one’s citizenship can be challenging and perplexing for Canadians.

What exactly is dual citizenship?

When a person has dual citizenship, they are simultaneously in possession of two distinct passports, giving them legal status as citizens of both countries.

What are the pros and cons of dual citizenship?

The most immediate benefit of dual citizenship is the possibility of having access to both countries political rights, better health care options, more educational opportunities, ease of travel between both countries, and the opportunity to own property, among other freedoms. However, having dual citizenship may also have certain downsides. It can be difficult and tiring to get approval for dual citizenship as officialdom typically contributes significantly to the lengthy processing times. Additionally, having multiple obligations to two countries may present difficulties for some people (expensive lifestyle, carrier issues etc.).

Below are some countries that does (and does not) allow dual citizenship

India: India does not permit holding citizenship of another country along with Indian citizenship as per the Indian Citizenship Act of 1955. It is illegal to apply for, possess, or use an Indian passport after obtaining foreign citizenship, thus Indian citizens who acquire Canadian citizenship will not be able to have dual citizenship.

Australia: Australian law allows citizens to obtain another nationality while retaining their Australian citizenship. They will not lose their Australian citizenship unless they choose to give it up through a formal renunciation process that is approved by a citizenship judge. Therefore, it is possible for an Australian citizen to hold multiple citizenships and allegiances indefinitely.

Belgium: Since 2008, Belgian citizens have been able to hold multiple nationalities without any special conditions. If a Belgian citizen acquires another nationality voluntarily or automatically, they will not have to relinquish their Belgian citizenship. Additionally, if a person already holds another nationality and obtains Belgian nationality, Belgian law does not require them to register or renounce their original citizenship, and there are no negative consequences as a result.

Singapore: Singapore does not allow dual citizenship, so a person who wants to become a Canadian citizen must give up their Singapore citizenship.

Norway: After January 1, 2020, it will be legal to hold citizenships other than your native Norway. If you hold several citizenships, you must present proof that you abide by Norwegian citizenship laws.

Contact us today to know if you qualify to migrate to Canada or apply for Canadian citizenship.  Check out Owlspriority Immigration’s Canada Settlement Resources to learn about finding employment in Canada, making your initial days stress-free, etc.