Dual Citizenship Around the World: Why Many Countries Still Say No

In an increasingly gloabalized world, dual citizenship is often seen as a practical response to cross-border mobility, migration, and economic integration. Yet, many countries—particularly across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East—continue to restrict or outright prohibit dual nationality, forcing individuals to make a definitive choice of allegiance.

These policies typically require automatic loss of original citizenship upon acquiring another, or formal renunciation of foreign nationality before naturalization. While the specifics vary, the underlying principle is the same: exclusive national loyalty.

Regions with Strict Limits on Dual Citizenship

Asia

Several Asian countries maintain some of the world’s strictest nationality laws:

• China – Does not recognize dual nationality under any circumstance.

• Japan – Requires individuals with dual nationality at birth to choose one by age 22.

• Singapore – Enforces single citizenship; applicants must prove renunciation of all foreign nationalities before naturalization.

• Malaysia – Article 24 of the constitution mandates loss of Malaysian citizenship upon voluntary acquisition of another.

• India – Prohibits dual citizenship but offers Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) as a long-term residency and economic rights alternative.

• Others: Myanmar, Laos, Brunei, Nepal, Bhutan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, North Korea.

Middle East

Citizenship laws in the region are closely tied to sovereignty and state identity:

• Saudi Arabia – Generally forbids dual citizenship; exceptions require royal approval.

• Qatar – Prohibits dual nationality.

• United Arab Emirates – Historically strict, though limited exceptions now exist for select professionals and investors.

Africa

While several African countries now allow dual citizenship, a number still enforce single nationality rules:

• Botswana

• Cameroon

• Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

• Equatorial Guinea

• Eritrea

• Ethiopia

• Eswatini

• Guinea

• Libya

• Mauritania

• Senegal

• Tanzania

• Togo

Americas

• Cuba – Does not recognize dual citizenship in practice.

• Suriname – Prohibits dual nationality.

Europe

Although Europe is generally permissive, a few countries maintain restrictions:

• Andorra

• Estonia (with limited exceptions)

• Monaco

• San Marino (conditional allowances)

Key National Approaches and Nuances

• China: Citizenship law strictly rejects dual nationality. Chinese citizens who voluntarily acquire another citizenship automatically lose Chinese nationality.

• Japan: Dual nationals must choose one nationality by age 22, reflecting Japan’s emphasis on clear civic identity.

• India: Instead of dual citizenship, India offers OCI status, granting visa-free travel, residency rights, and economic participation—but not political rights.

• Singapore: One of the most rigid systems; even citizens by descent must renounce foreign citizenship upon reaching adulthood.

• Saudi Arabia: Dual nationality is generally prohibited, with rare exceptions granted directly by the King.

Why Countries Restrict Dual Citizenship

Governments that prohibit dual nationality often cite:

• National security and loyalty concerns

• Clear legal jurisdiction and military obligations

• Control over political participation and public office

• Preservation of national identity and sovereignty

In many cases, these rules are rooted in post-colonial history, geopolitical sensitivities, or centralized state structures.

Why This Matters for Individuals

Strict citizenship laws have real-world implications:

• Naturalization decisions often require giving up a birth nationality.

• Consular protection may be limited or denied once a new citizenship is acquired.

• Property, inheritance, and employment rights in the country of origin can be affected.

• Individuals with dual ties must carefully navigate legal, tax, and residency obligations.

For migrants, investors, and global professionals, understanding these rules is critical before pursuing a second passport.

Conclusion

Despite growing global mobility, dual citizenship remains far from universally accepted. Many countries—particularly in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East—continue to prioritize exclusive citizenship models that demand clear national allegiance.

As migration, investment, and cross-border families increase, pressure may grow for reform. Until then, individuals must approach citizenship decisions with careful legal planning and full awareness of the consequences.