Naturalization is a critical step in the immigration process for many people, as it affords privileges for an individual to live in and work in the U. S. permanently, vote, and carry a U.S. passport. Nevertheless, some naturalized citizens begin to question whether if they stay in another country their citizenship status will be at risk. This article focuses on this question, pointing out that American citizenship is rather stable and it is possible to lose that status in exceptional cases only.
The Stability of U.S. Citizenship
Unlike lawful permanent residents who can be stripped of this status if absent from the US for an extended period, for a US citizen this is not a possibility. In essence, residency in another country does not compromise that of the holder, making naturalization a desirable feat for most green card holders.
Green Card Holders and Abandonment Concerns
They may encounter problems if they live in another country indefinitely, and this may lead to a conclusion that they have abandoned their residence in the U. S. This could attract a likelihood of being barred from re-entering the United States. On the other hand, naturalized U. S. citizens don’t have issues with losing their citizenship every time they reside in another country.
Exceptional Circumstances for Citizenship Revocation
While U. S. citizenship remains a permanent status, there are cases when it can be rightfully taken away, namely if the citizen committed treason or some other activities proving his or her disloyalty to the country Here are the possible ways of being stripped of the naturalized U. S. citizenship:
Denaturalization
The inability to prove that one became a citizen through legal procedures usually involving fraud or conspiracy to fraud is referred to as denaturalization. Though this process is quite rare, it was more frequent during the presidency of Donald Trump.
Relinquishing U.S. Nationality
Under Section 349 of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act, certain actions can lead to loss of U.S. nationality, provided there is an intent to relinquish it. These actions include:
- Becoming a naturalized citizen of another country after age 18: This can lead to loss of U.S. citizenship if the individual intends to give up their U.S. nationality. This doesn’t apply to those who are citizens of another country by birth.
- Joining the military of a foreign state: Serving in the armed forces of a country hostile to the U.S. or serving as an officer can result in losing U.S. citizenship.
- Serving in a foreign government: Holding a position in a foreign government and acquiring that state’s nationality or taking an oath of allegiance can lead to revocation.
- Formal renunciation: Some individuals renounce their U.S. citizenship to comply with laws in a foreign country or to avoid U.S. taxes.
- Committing treason or similar acts: Participating in activities aimed at overthrowing the U.S. government or acts of war against the U.S. can lead to loss of citizenship.
Maintaining U.S. Citizenship While Living Abroad
In the absence of the exceptional circumstances listed above, living in another country does not affect a naturalized U.S. citizen’s status. The key principle is that naturalized U.S. citizens keep their citizenship for life unless they voluntarily act to relinquish it. This enduring stability underscores the strong protection U.S. citizenship provides.
It is uncommon for naturalized U.S. citizens to lose their citizenship solely by living in another country. Most can live abroad for extended periods without risking their U.S. citizenship, allowing them the freedom to explore the world while retaining their American identity
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the United States straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Permanent Resident Card or a Re-entry Permit, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process, coordinating with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit the United States. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.
