Dual Citizenship in Canada: Can You Keep Your Other Passport?

One of the most common questions from citizenship applicants is whether they can keep their original passport. The answer from Canada's side is a clear yes. But your home country may have different rules. Here is everything you need to know. CitizenPass makes mastering this easy — read on, then start practicing for free.

Canada has allowed dual citizenship since 1977. Under Canadian law:

• There is no restriction on holding multiple citizenships
• You are not required to choose between Canada and your home country
• The Canadian government recognizes that many Canadians hold more than one citizenship
• Your Canadian citizenship is not affected by holding another nationality

This is one of the most progressive dual citizenship policies in the world.

While Canada allows it, your home country may not. Here are some major countries with restrictions:

Countries That Generally Prohibit Dual Citizenship:

• China — Chinese citizenship is automatically lost when you acquire another nationality
• India — India does not recognize dual citizenship (but offers OCI cards as an alternative)
• Japan — Citizens must choose one nationality by age 22 (enforcement varies)
• Singapore — Male citizens must renounce before age 22; exceptions are rare
• Saudi Arabia — Dual citizenship is not recognized

Countries With Conditional Allowances:

• Germany — Generally not allowed, but exceptions exist for EU citizens and certain circumstances
• South Korea — Allowed in some cases with conditions
• Netherlands — Complex rules with many exceptions

Countries That Fully Allow Dual Citizenship:

• United States — Allowed (but note US worldwide taxation)
• United Kingdom — Allowed
• France — Allowed
• Italy — Allowed
• Philippines — Allowed (with re-acquisition process)
• Pakistan — Allowed with several countries including Canada
• Iran — Does not recognize it but cannot prevent it

Disclaimer: Immigration laws change frequently. Always verify current rules with your home country's embassy or consulate, or consult an immigration lawyer.

At the Canadian citizenship ceremony:

• You take the Oath of Citizenship, pledging loyalty to King Charles III and Canada
• You do NOT sign any document renouncing your other citizenship
• You do NOT surrender your other passport
• The oath is about adding Canadian citizenship, not replacing anything

The oath reads (in part): *"I swear (or affirm) that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, King of Canada, His Heirs and Successors..."*

This is a pledge to Canada — it does not address your relationship with any other country.

Which Passport to Use Where

Benefits of Holding Two Passports:

• Visa-free travel to more countries
• Right to live and work in both countries
• Access to consular services from both countries
• The Canadian passport is one of the world's most powerful (top 10 globally)
• Emergency backup if one passport is lost or stolen while traveling

DISCLAIMER: This is general information, not tax advice. Consult a qualified tax professional for your specific situation.

Key Considerations:

• Canada taxes based on residency, not citizenship. If you live in Canada, you pay Canadian taxes on worldwide income regardless of other citizenships.
• Some countries tax based on citizenship. The United States is the most notable example — US citizens must file US taxes even if they live permanently in Canada.
• Tax treaties between Canada and many countries prevent double taxation, but you may still need to file in both countries.
• Foreign assets reporting may be required in both countries depending on your holdings.

Dual citizenship is one of the many benefits of becoming Canadian. First, pass your test:

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Your Canadian dream is one test away. Join thousands of successful new Canadians — start your free CitizenPass preparation today.