Holding citizenship in more than one country can offer unique advantages when it comes to international travel, work, and residency. However, dual citizenship also introduces questions - especially regarding which passport to use and when, how to manage renewals, and how to comply with U.S. legal requirements.

This guide explains how dual citizens - particularly U.S. citizens with a second nationality - can legally apply for, manage, and use both passports without confusion or delay.

What Is Dual Citizenship?

Dual citizenship refers to a legal status in which an individual is recognized as a citizen of two countries simultaneously. The United States allows dual citizenship, although it does not explicitly encourage or prohibit it. Each country involved has its own citizenship laws, and not all countries recognize dual nationality.

You may acquire dual citizenship by:

  • Being born in the U.S. to foreign parents
  • Being born abroad to U.S. citizen parents
  • Naturalizing in a second country that permits dual citizenship
  • Claiming ancestry-based citizenship through a foreign country

Do Dual Citizens Need a U.S. Passport?

Yes. If you are a U.S. citizen - regardless of other nationalities - you are legally required to enter and exit the United States using your valid U.S. passport. This is specified in Section 215 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

You may not use a foreign passport to enter or leave the U.S., even if you also hold citizenship in that country.

Can I Apply for a Second Passport from Another Country?

Yes. If your second country of citizenship allows it, you may apply for and carry that country's passport as well. This process varies depending on the country’s laws, documentation requirements, and whether you must apply through a consulate or embassy in the United States.

Some countries - such as Italy, Ireland, Canada, and Israel - make it relatively straightforward for dual citizens to obtain a passport once citizenship has been confirmed. Others may require proof of residency, renunciation of other nationalities, or military obligations.

Before applying for a foreign passport, check with that country’s embassy or consulate for guidance.

How to Use Two Passports When Traveling

Many dual citizens hold valid U.S. and foreign passports and use each for entry into its respective country:

  • Use your U.S. passport to enter and exit the United States.
  • Use your foreign passport to enter and exit the other country where you hold citizenship.

For example, a dual U.S. Italian citizen flying from New York to Rome would present their U.S. passport upon departure from the U.S. and their Italian passport upon arrival in Italy. The process is reversed on the return trip.

This approach helps avoid delays, questions about visas, and potential penalties in either country.

Common Questions About Dual Passports

Q: Can I use my foreign passport to avoid U.S. travel restrictions or taxes?
No. If you are a U.S. citizen, you are subject to U.S. immigration and tax laws regardless of other citizenships. Attempting to bypass U.S. requirements using a foreign passport may result in penalties or denied reentry.

Q: Do I need to carry both passports when traveling?
If you plan to cross borders or use your dual nationality, it is advisable to carry both passports. Always use the passport corresponding to the country you are entering.

Q: What if one passport expires?
You must keep both passports valid to travel freely. If your U.S. passport expires, you may not re-enter the United States until it is renewed. Likewise, an expired foreign passport may cause issues abroad or prevent re-entry to your second country of citizenship.

Q: Can I renew both passports from the U.S.?
Yes. You can renew your U.S. passport at a passport acceptance facility or through the U.S. State Department. Foreign passports must typically be renewed through that country's consulate or embassy.

Q: Does applying for a foreign passport jeopardize my U.S. citizenship?
Generally, no. As long as you do not formally renounce your U.S. citizenship, acquiring a second passport does not affect your status. However, you should avoid pledging exclusive allegiance to another country if doing so violates U.S. laws.

Final Thoughts

Managing dual citizenship responsibly means understanding the legal and logistical implications of carrying two passports. While it offers considerable flexibility, it also requires that you meet the travel and documentation requirements of both countries.

At USPassport.com, we help U.S. citizens - whether single or dual nationals - expedite new passport applications, renew expired ones, and navigate the paperwork required for international travel. If you need help replacing a passport, preparing for urgent travel, or simply want your application handled quickly and correctly, we’re here to help.