Maple News reports that Canada permits dual citizenship, meaning individuals who become naturalized citizens of Canada can often retain their original nationality. However, whether you may keep your original citizenship depends largely on the laws of your country of origin. While Canada’s citizenship laws are accommodating, not all nations recognize or allow dual citizenship.
For example, countries like India, China, and Iran do not permit dual citizenship. Indian citizens acquiring Canadian citizenship must formally renounce their Indian nationality and surrender their passports. China automatically revokes citizenship for nationals who voluntarily acquire another, and Iran treats its dual citizens solely as Iranian, which can restrict consular support in certain situations.
In contrast, many countries do allow their citizens to hold another nationality. The U.S., Brazil, France, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Syria recognize dual citizenship, though some impose specific conditions. For instance, Nigerians who acquired citizenship through naturalization must renounce it before becoming Canadian citizens, while those born as Nigerian citizens can hold both.
Pakistani law, recently updated in 2024, permits dual citizenship with several countries, including Canada. The Philippines allows dual nationality, especially for individuals with familial or birth ties. Meanwhile, Syria recognizes it but places precedence on Syrian citizenship in legal matters.
Naturalizing as a Canadian citizen involves meeting several criteria. Applicants must be permanent residents, reside in Canada for at least 1,095 days in the past five years, and fulfill tax obligations. Those between the ages of 18 and 54 are also required to pass a citizenship test and demonstrate language proficiency in English or French.
Canada’s current processing time for citizenship applications is approximately 10 months, and the final step involves taking the oath of citizenship in a ceremony. Individuals under the age of 14 are not required to participate in this ceremony.
Maple News emphasizes that while Canada’s stance on dual citizenship is progressive, prospective citizens must consider how their country of origin handles dual nationality. Understanding both Canadian law and your home country’s policies is essential before applying for citizenship.
Holding dual citizenship often brings benefits, such as the privilege to live, work, and access services in both countries. But it may also involve certain limitations, particularly when traveling or seeking consular support. Always seek up-to-date legal advice tailored to your specific nationality and circumstances.