List of Countries That Do Not Allow Dual Citizenship (2025 Edition)

Having a second citizenship—whether to unlock visa-free travel, diversify your investment portfolio, or facilitate a long-term relocation—requires a thorough understanding of dual citizenship laws. The implications are significant: obtaining a second nationality without full awareness of legal repercussions can lead to the involuntary forfeiture of your original citizenship, financial penalties, or loss of entitlement to public benefits in your home country.

Globally, over 130 countries permit some form of dual or multiple citizenship. However, numerous others maintain strict prohibitions, often demanding formal renunciation of prior nationalities or automatically revoking citizenship upon acquisition of another.

If you’re asking yourself:

• Which countries strictly prohibit dual citizenship?

• Will I forfeit my U.S. citizenship if I naturalize abroad?

• Is it possible to obtain a second passport without risking legal complications?

This analysis offers precise, up-to-date guidance grounded in international law and comparative policy. It details how U.S. citizens are uniquely affected, highlights jurisdictions with stringent dual citizenship restrictions, and outlines practical steps to verify foreign nationality laws before proceeding.

Whether considering citizenship by investment, naturalization, or descent, this expert guide equips you to navigate complex regulations, mitigate risks, and make fully informed decisions about holding dual nationality lawfully.

What Is Dual Citizenship and Why Does It Matter in 2025

What Does Dual Citizenship Mean?

Dual citizenship—also referred to as dual nationality—is when a person is legally recognized as a citizen of two countries simultaneously. This legal status allows individuals to enjoy the rights and privileges of both nations, including:

• Residence and work rights
• Voting eligibility
• Healthcare access
• Property ownership

Dual citizenship can occur automatically at birth (e.g. born in the U.S. to foreign parents) or be acquired later through naturalization, marriage, descent, or investment.

Each country sets its own rules for recognizing or rejecting dual citizenship. Some allow it freely. Others enforce restrictions or outright bans.

How the United States Treats Dual Citizenship

The U.S. permits dual citizenship. American citizens may acquire another nationality without losing their U.S. passport—unless they explicitly renounce it through a formal process.

That said, Americans must:

• Use their U.S. passport to enter and leave the country
• File annual tax returns regardless of where they live
• Follow U.S. laws at all times

The issue arises when other countries do not recognize dual nationality and penalize individuals who attempt to retain U.S. citizenship while acquiring theirs.

Read Also: Does US Allow Dual Citizenship?

Why It Matters most to U.S. Citizens

Holding dual citizenship has serious implications:

• You could lose your original citizenship if the second country doesn’t allow dual nationality.
• Failure to renounce a nationality might lead to your application being denied—or worse, result in legal penalties.
• In many countries, dual citizens are banned from voting, military service, or public office.
• Even if you lose foreign citizenship, U.S. tax obligations remain, including foreign income reporting (FATCA, FBAR).

These legal gray areas make it essential for Americans to confirm:

• Which countries allow dual citizenship with the U.S.
• Which countries require you to renounce your U.S. citizenship

Read Also: Countries That Allow Dual Citizenship

Countries That Do Not Allow Dual Citizenship

What Does It Mean When a Country “Does Not Allow” Dual Citizenship?

When a country prohibits dual citizenship, it may enforce one or more of the following legal policies:

• Mandatory Renunciation: You must give up your existing citizenship (e.g., U.S. citizenship) to acquire theirs.
• Automatic Loss: Acquiring a foreign nationality results in immediate cancellation of your original citizenship.
• Legal Penalties: Some countries enforce dual citizenship bans through criminal penalties, loss of public office, or restricted civil rights.
• Non-Recognition: Some states do not explicitly ban dual citizenship, but treat you only as their own citizen while inside the country, disregarding any second nationality.

Understanding these variations is critical to avoid unintended consequences when applying for second citizenship.

Read Also: Countries That Allow Dual Citizenship

Full List of Countries That Do Not Allow Dual Citizenship (2025)

Are There Exceptions?

Some countries on this list allow dual citizenship in very limited scenarios, such as:

• Children with mixed-nationality parents
• Investors or foreign experts granted special exemptions
• Citizens who acquire a second nationality automatically by birth

However, these are not the norm and often require legal petitions, ministerial approval, or embassy intervention.

Why Some Countries Prohibit Dual Citizenship

While dual citizenship is increasingly accepted around the world, many countries still restrict or reject it outright. These restrictions aren’t arbitrary—they stem from specific legal, political, and cultural concerns.

Understanding these motivations can help U.S. citizens avoid violating foreign laws and better navigate the complexities of second citizenship.

1. Concerns Over National Loyalty and Allegiance

Many governments view dual citizenship as a conflict of national allegiance. From their perspective, citizenship implies full loyalty to one state—its constitution, military service, political system, and national values.

Countries like Japan, South Korea, and Singapore worry that dual nationals may have divided loyalties, especially in matters of:

• National defense and conscription
• Voting in foreign elections
• Serving in foreign governments or militaries

This is particularly important in countries with mandatory military service, where citizenship carries more than just civic rights—it implies duty and sacrifice.

2. Political and Security Risks

Some countries fear that dual citizenship could be abused for political leverage or to influence sensitive areas like:

• Government elections
• Judicial independence
• National security clearances

In states such as China, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, holding a second passport is sometimes viewed as a national security threat, especially if it’s from a geopolitical rival like the United States.

These countries aim to minimize foreign influence over internal affairs by requiring full loyalty from their citizens.

3. Tax Compliance and Financial Transparency

For governments with strict tax systems, dual citizenship can complicate enforcement. Dual nationals may:

• Hide income or assets in another country
• Exploit double taxation loopholes
• Avoid reporting offshore accounts

Countries like Germany and Austria apply tight controls on dual citizens, sometimes requiring tax residency declarations or financial disclosures before granting permission to retain a second nationality.

While U.S. citizens are taxed globally, not all countries have treaties to prevent double taxation, and some foreign governments view dual nationals as tax risks or enforcement challenges.

4. Cultural Integration and Assimilation

Certain countries believe that full cultural integration requires exclusive citizenship. By limiting dual nationality, they aim to:

• Encourage immigrants to adopt local customs and values
• Preserve national identity and unity
• Reduce social division and favoritism

For example, India and Indonesia prohibit dual citizenship to maintain a strong sense of national unity and identity. In these nations, applying for another passport can be interpreted as rejecting your heritage.

5. Administrative and Legal Simplicity

In some cases, countries restrict dual citizenship to simplify their legal systems, especially in areas like:

• Inheritance laws
• Criminal prosecution
• Military service exemptions
• Diplomatic protection

Having citizens with multiple legal allegiances can create complex jurisdictional disputes and bureaucratic challenges, particularly when one nationality is used to evade responsibility under another.

Case-by-Case Analysis: Countries with Strict Dual Citizenship Policies

Below are examples of how different countries enforce their bans on dual citizenship, especially when it involves U.S. citizens. These case studies highlight the legal implications, penalties, and limited exceptions, if any, that applicants should be aware of before pursuing a second passport.

India: No Dual Citizenship, Only OCI Status

India’s constitution explicitly prohibits dual citizenship. If an Indian citizen voluntarily acquires the citizenship of another country, such as the United States, they automatically lose their Indian nationality.

However, India offers a workaround called OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India). This is not full citizenship, but it does grant certain privileges:

• Visa-free travel to India
• The right to live and work in India indefinitely
• Exemption from registering with the police for long-term stays

Limitations of OCI:

• No voting rights
• Cannot run for office or hold government jobs
• Cannot buy agricultural land

Impact on U.S. Citizens: Americans of Indian origin can apply for OCI but must renounce their Indian passport before obtaining U.S. citizenship.

Japan: Choose One Citizenship by Age 22

Japan allows children born with multiple nationalities (e.g., U.S. and Japanese) to retain both until they turn 22. At that point, they are legally required to choose one.

According to the Japanese Nationality Act, failure to make a choice may result in the revocation of Japanese citizenship. In practice, enforcement varies, but legal risk remains.

▶ Impact on U.S. Citizens: Japanese-Americans must formally declare their intention to keep Japanese or U.S. citizenship before the deadline. If no action is taken, Japanese nationality may be revoked.

China: Immediate Revocation Upon Naturalization

China does not recognize dual citizenship under any circumstances. Article 3 of the Nationality Law of the People’s Republic of China clearly states:

“The People’s Republic of China does not recognize dual nationality for any Chinese national.”

Citizens who acquire foreign citizenship—voluntarily or through naturalization—automatically lose their Chinese citizenship. Chinese embassies also refuse to offer consular protection to individuals who violate this law.

▶ Impact on U.S. Citizens: Naturalized Americans of Chinese origin are no longer recognized as Chinese citizens. Applying for or renewing Chinese documents while holding U.S. citizenship may trigger legal action.

Saudi Arabia: Only Permitted by Royal Decree

Saudi Arabia allows dual citizenship only under exceptional circumstances, typically granted by royal decree. Without this approval, acquiring a foreign nationality (e.g. U.S.) voids Saudi citizenship.

Moreover, dual nationals who do not disclose their second nationality risk:

• Citizenship cancellation
• Asset seizures
• Restrictions on inheritance and business ownership

▶ Impact on U.S. Citizens: Americans applying for Saudi citizenship must renounce their U.S. nationality, unless they receive official permission from the government.

Ethiopia: No Dual Citizenship Allowed

Ethiopian law prohibits dual citizenship. Citizens who acquire another nationality must renounce their Ethiopian citizenship, or it may be automatically revoked.

Ethiopia has a diaspora program similar to India’s OCI, called the Yellow Card, which provides permanent residency rights to former Ethiopian nationals.

▶ Impact on U.S. Citizens: Americans of Ethiopian origin may apply for a Yellow Card but cannot hold Ethiopian citizenship and a U.S. passport simultaneously.

Consequences of Violating Dual Citizenship Bans

Acquiring a second nationality without understanding your first country’s laws can lead to serious, often irreversible consequences. In countries that do not allow dual citizenship, violations are not just bureaucratic—they can impact your legal status, rights, and even personal safety.

Below are the most common and serious outcomes that individuals, especially U.S. citizens, may face when applying for a second passport in countries with strict dual nationality bans.

1. Automatic Loss of Citizenship

In many countries, simply acquiring a second nationality (such as U.S. citizenship) triggers immediate loss of your original citizenship. This is especially common in:

• India
• China
• Singapore
• Indonesia
• Ukraine

This means you may:

• Lose the right to live in or return to your birth country
• Lose your national ID, passport, or voting rights
• Be required to reapply for visas or long-term residence

Example: An Indian national who becomes a naturalized U.S. citizen without formally renouncing Indian citizenship loses Indian nationality by default—even if they keep using their Indian passport (which is illegal and can lead to prosecution).

2. Revocation of Naturalization

Some countries not only reject dual citizenship but may also revoke your citizenship if it is later discovered that you retained or concealed another nationality.

This often applies in:

• Austria
• Saudi Arabia
• Germany (if prior permission wasn’t granted)

Citizenship revocation may lead to:

• Deportation or denial of re-entry
• Loss of property or assets
• Ineligibility for public healthcare, education, or social benefits

3. Criminal Liability or Fines

In rare but serious cases, holding dual citizenship in violation of a country’s laws can lead to criminal charges or financial penalties.

For example:

• China: Applying for dual citizenship may lead to invalidation of your visa or denial of re-entry.
• South Africa: Using a foreign passport at South African border control without declaring dual citizenship is a criminal offense.
• Saudi Arabia: Holding a second passport without official permission can lead to fines and restrictions on business ownership or employment.

4. Loss of Government Privileges or Public Office

Even where dual citizenship is tolerated, certain government roles are off-limits to dual nationals. Common restrictions include:

• Serving in the military
• Holding national security clearance
• Becoming a member of parliament or president
• Applying for judicial or diplomatic positions

▶ Example: In Pakistan, dual nationals are prohibited from running for elected office or joining the armed forces, even if their second citizenship is allowed under bilateral agreements.

5. Conflicts in Military Service Obligations

If you’re a citizen of two countries that both have mandatory military service, you could be drafted by both, especially if both enforce compulsory enlistment.

This can lead to:

• Legal conflicts between the two countries
• Travel restrictions or entry denial
• Requirement to perform or exempt yourself from service through formal legal channels

6. Passport Misuse and Border Issues

In many countries that don’t recognize dual citizenship, individuals are required to use only their national passport when entering or leaving. Using a second passport can be considered fraudulent or illegal.

▶ Example: A dual citizen of Venezuela and the U.S. must enter Venezuela using a Venezuelan passport, even if traveling with a U.S. passport. Failing to do so may result in detention or fines.

What to Do If You’re Affected by Dual Citizenship Restrictions

If you’re planning to acquire a second nationality—or already hold one—and your country of origin does not permit dual citizenship, it’s important to act strategically and lawfully. The steps you take now can protect you from losing essential rights, facing penalties, or becoming stateless.

Below are practical actions you can take depending on your situation.

1. Consult a Citizenship or Immigration Lawyer

Before taking any steps toward a second nationality, always seek professional legal advice. An immigration lawyer can:

• Review your specific citizenship laws
• Assess your eligibility for dual or conditional status
• Help you avoid unintended legal violations
• Guide you through renunciation or exemption procedures

▶ Tip: Look for lawyers experienced in cross-border nationality cases, especially if you’re dealing with the U.S. and a country that has restrictions.

2. Consider Renouncing Your Current Citizenship—If It’s Safe

In countries where dual citizenship is explicitly prohibited, you may need to formally renounce your current nationality (such as U.S. citizenship) before acquiring another.

Make sure you:

• Understand the tax and legal consequences
• Know whether renunciation is reversible
• Secure a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship in your new country

▶ Important: Renouncing U.S. citizenship requires a formal process at a U.S. embassy or consulate, an exit interview, and payment of an exit tax if you meet the wealth threshold.

3. Explore Alternatives: Long-Term Residency or OCI-Type Programs

If you are from a country like India or Ethiopia, which doesn’t allow dual citizenship, look into quasi-citizenship programs such as:

• OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India)
• Ethiopian Origin ID Card (Yellow Card)

These programs give you many of the benefits of citizenship, such as living, working, and owning property, without requiring dual nationality.

4. Apply for Dual Citizenship Exemptions (If Available)

Some countries, like Germany, Norway, and Saudi Arabia, offer exemptions or waivers under certain circumstances:

• High-skilled professionals
• Investors or entrepreneurs
• Nationals married to a citizen of the second country
• Children of mixed-nationality parents

You’ll usually need to submit:

• A formal request
• Proof of special circumstances
• Documentation from both governments

Example: Germany allows dual citizenship if giving up your previous nationality is “unreasonable”—such as in cases of persecution or excessive bureaucracy.

5. Use Only One Passport While in Restricted Jurisdictions

If your country of origin does not recognize dual citizenship, using your second passport while in that country could be risky. Stick to the passport that the government recognizes and avoid revealing dual status unless legally required.

Tip: Never present a foreign passport to immigration or public authorities in a country that bans dual nationality, as it may be interpreted as renunciation or misconduct.

6. Plan Ahead Before Taking Up Public Office, Government Jobs, or Military Roles

If you intend to work in any public capacity in a dual-citizenship-restricted country, you may need to:

• Declare and renounce your second citizenship
• Provide official documentation proving exclusive loyalty
• Undergo additional screening or background checks

Failure to do so can result in disqualification, job loss, or legal penalties.

Countries With Conditional Dual Citizenship

While many countries outright ban dual citizenship, others allow it under specific conditions. These exceptions often depend on the applicant’s origin, age, circumstances, or intent. Understanding where flexibility exists can help individuals retain their original citizenship without violating local law.

Below is a list of countries that allow dual citizenship conditionally, including what criteria must be met.

1. Germany

Primary Policy: Germany typically requires applicants to renounce their previous nationality when naturalizing.

Conditional Exceptions:

• Applicants from countries where renunciation is “unreasonable or impossible”
• Refugees or asylum seekers
• Citizens of EU countries or Switzerland
• Children born to parents of different nationalities

▶ Note: You must apply for and receive permission from the German government before acquiring a second citizenship, known as “Beibehaltungsgenehmigung”(or BBG).

2. Norway

Primary Policy: Historically banned dual citizenship, but lifted the restriction in 2020.

New Rules:

• Dual citizenship is now permitted for both naturalized citizens and Norwegian-born citizens acquiring a second nationality
• Still requires disclosure of other nationalities for official records

▶ Note: If you lost Norwegian citizenship under the previous rule, you can now apply to regain it under the new framework.

3. The Netherlands

Primary Policy: The Netherlands requires individuals to give up their original citizenship when becoming Dutch.

Exceptions Include:

• Marriage to a Dutch national
• Born with dual nationality
• Refugee status
• Unable to renounce due to restrictive laws or excessive costs

▶ Note: Dutch citizens who acquire another nationality without notifying authorities may automatically lose Dutch citizenship after 10 years of foreign residence.

4. South Korea

Primary Policy: Dual citizenship is limited but permitted under reforms introduced in 2010.

Who Can Qualify:

• Korean-born individuals returning from abroad
• High-skilled professionals in science, law, culture, or technology
• Individuals with Korean spouses or heritage

▶ Requirement: Must declare intention not to exercise foreign nationality while residing in Korea.

5. Philippines

Primary Policy: The Philippines allows former Filipino citizens to reacquire citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225.

Eligibility:

• Natural-born Filipinos who became citizens of another country
• Must take an oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines

▶ Note: Dual citizens may vote and own property but are restricted from holding certain public offices unless they renounce foreign allegiances.

Countries Do Not Allow Dual Citizenship – Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses the top questions people ask when researching countries that do not allow dual citizenship. The answers are based on verified legal sources and are tailored to help users avoid mistakes and stay compliant with international laws.

Which Countries Do Not Allow Dual Citizenship?

Countries that prohibit dual citizenship include:

• China
• India
• Japan
• Saudi Arabia
• Singapore
• Indonesia
• Ukraine
• Ethiopia
• Austria (with limited exceptions)

These countries either explicitly revoke your citizenship upon acquiring another nationality or do not legally recognize multiple citizenships at all.

Why Do Some Countries Not Allow Dual Citizenship?

There are several reasons:

• National loyalty concerns
• Military service obligations
• Prevention of tax evasion
• Control over political participation
• Encouraging cultural integration

These countries typically believe that allegiance should be singular, particularly in matters of defense and governance.

What Happens If You Take Another Citizenship in a Country That Doesn’t Allow Dual Nationality?

In most cases:

• You will automatically lose your original citizenship
• You may face legal penalties or fines
• Your passport may be invalidated
• You could lose access to property, inheritance rights, or government benefits

▶ Important: Always consult legal professionals before acquiring a second nationality in these situations.

Can You Regain Citizenship After Renouncing It?

In some cases, yes:

• Norway and South Korea allow former citizens to reapply
• The Philippines permits former nationals to reacquire citizenship
• Germany allows reinstatement in exceptional cases

Each country has its own process, usually requiring:

• Proof of descent
• A formal application
• An oath of allegiance

Is Dual Citizenship Illegal in Some Countries?

Yes. In countries like China or Saudi Arabia, holding two passports is considered a violation of national law. Attempting to conceal or use a second nationality may result in:

• Passport confiscation
• Travel restrictions
• Detention or fines

What Are the Penalties for Holding Dual Citizenship in These Countries?

Penalties vary:

• Loss of original nationality
• Deportation or denial of re-entry
• Exclusion from public service or political office
• Asset seizure or tax penalties

Tip: Check with your embassy or legal counsel before making any travel or legal decisions involving dual citizenship.

Can I Lose My Citizenship If I Get Another Passport?

Yes—if you’re from a country that doesn’t allow dual citizenship. For example:

• An Indian acquiring U.S. citizenship automatically loses Indian nationality
• A Japanese dual national must choose one nationality by age 22, or risk automatic revocation

What Are the Benefits of Restricting Dual Citizenship?

Countries that restrict dual citizenship aim to:

• Preserve national identity
• Enforce military and tax obligations
• Maintain political control
• Ensure diplomatic clarity

These policies are often rooted in historical, political, or security considerations.

Which Countries Allow Conditional Dual Citizenship?

Examples include:

• Germany
• The Netherlands
• South Korea
• Norway
• Israel
• Philippines

These countries allow dual nationality only under specific exemptions such as heritage, refugee status, or professional qualifications.

How Is Dual Citizenship Handled in Military Service or Elections?

In countries with compulsory service (like South Korea or Israel), dual citizens may still be required to serve. In elections:

• Some countries ban dual nationals from voting or running for office (e.g., Pakistan, Sri Lanka)
• Others allow full participation but require you to declare exclusive loyalty

Explore Your Citizenship Options Safely

Understanding which countries do not allow dual citizenship is just the first step. Whether you’re considering naturalization, looking to invest abroad, or managing family ties across borders—compliance is key. Making a decision without fully understanding the consequences can result in loss of rights, legal penalties, or permanent bans.

If you’re planning a second nationality or relocating, take time to:

• Consult with an immigration attorney familiar with both countries’ laws
• Explore programs like long-term residency, OCI cards, or reacquisition options
• Stay informed about penalties, exceptions, and conditional dual citizenship systems

Key Takeaways

• Many countries, including China, India, Japan, and Saudi Arabi,a prohibit dual citizenship outright.
• Violating these restrictions may result in citizenship revocation, criminal penalties, or denial of public services.
• Some nations offer conditional dual citizenship for refugees, heritage-based applicants, or professionals.
• If affected, consider legal alternatives, formal renunciation, or compliant pathways like OCI or Yellow Card programs.
• Stay informed and legally compliant to avoid complications in travel, inheritance, or property rights.

By aligning your actions with the laws of both your current and future nationality, you protect your identity, rights, and future plans. At Premium Citizen, we’re committed to helping you navigate citizenship pathways with clarity and confidence.

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