Becoming a U.S. citizen is a big milestone for immigrants, offering stability and access to a lot of rights and privileges unlike lawful permanent residents who are also known as green card holders, U.S. citizens enjoy the assurance that their citizenship cannot be revoked because of living outside the country for an extended period but there are exceptions to this principle, which we will explain this paper.
Abandonment of U.S. Residence
For U.S. citizens, establishing another country as their home is not a primary concern but for lawful permanent residents, they face the risk of being deemed to have abandoned their U.S. residence if they live in another country for an extended duration. It’s important to note that this concern looks at why many green card holders aim to get U.S. citizenship.
Exceptions: Instances When Naturalized U.S. Citizens Can Lose Citizenship
Revocation by U.S. Immigration Authorities
Denaturalization, or the annulment of an individual’s naturalized citizenship, can occur if the person acquired citizenship through fraudulent means or concealed vital information during the naturalization process. While efforts to revoke citizenship are relatively uncommon, they experienced an uptick during the Trump administration.
Loss of Nationality Statute
The U.S. incorporates a “loss of nationality” statute outlined in Section 349 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. It’s essential to recognize that this statute allows for some interpretation. To forfeit citizenship, an individual must undertake a relevant act “to relinquish United States nationality.” Here are some acts that may lead to the loss of U.S. nationality:
Becoming a Naturalized Citizen of Another Country
If an individual becomes a naturalized citizen of another country after turning 18, they could potentially lose their U.S. citizenship. It’s critical to note that this doesn’t apply if one is a citizen of another country by birth, and the intention element of the statute is paramount. Many individuals hold dual citizenship with the U.S. and another country without issue.
Joining the Military of a Foreign State
Engaging in the armed forces of a foreign state, particularly if those forces are involved in hostilities against the U.S. or if the individual serves as an officer (commissioned or non-commissioned), could lead to the loss of U.S. citizenship.
Joining the Government of a Foreign State
Accepting a position, serving in, or performing duties for the government of a foreign state or one of its political subdivisions after turning 18 may result in the loss of U.S. citizenship if the individual acquires the nationality of that foreign state or takes a required oath, affirmation, or declaration of allegiance to it.
Intentional Renunciation
Some individuals deliberately renounce their U.S. citizenship, driven by a desire to reside in a country that does not permit dual citizenship or for personal reasons. Renunciation occasionally garners attention when affluent individuals employ it to reduce their tax obligations in the United States.
Committing Treason or Acts Against the U.S. Government
Engaging in treasonous activities or conspiring against the U.S. government can lead to a determination that an individual has relinquished their U.S. citizenship.
The Bottom Line
In summary, unless any of the aforementioned scenarios apply to you, residing in another country should not imperil your status as a U.S. citizen. U.S. citizenship is typically steadfast and enduring, affording individuals the liberty to live abroad while retaining the benefits of their citizenship. It underscores the inclusivity and diversity of the United States, where citizens from diverse backgrounds can proudly identify as Americans.
