Dual Citizenship in Canada: Rules, Benefits & Restrictions (2025)

Canada is one of the most open countries in the world when it comes to dual citizenship. If you are wondering whether you can keep your current nationality while becoming Canadian, this guide has all the answers. CitizenPass helps you prepare for every step — read on, then start practicing for free.

Yes. Canada has allowed dual (and multiple) citizenship since 1977 when the Citizenship Act was amended. As a new Canadian citizen, you are not required to renounce your existing citizenship. You can hold citizenship in Canada and one or more other countries simultaneously.

This is one of the most attractive aspects of Canadian citizenship for immigrants — you do not have to choose between your homeland and your new country.

Entering and Leaving Canada

Since November 2016, all Canadian citizens — including dual citizens — must present a valid Canadian passport when flying to Canada. If you are a dual citizen, you will use your Canadian passport to enter Canada and may use either passport to enter your other country of citizenship.

Consular Protection

When you are in Canada, you are treated as a Canadian citizen only, regardless of your other citizenships. When you are in your other country of citizenship, Canada may not be able to provide you with consular assistance, as that country may consider you solely their citizen.

Voting and Civic Participation

As a Canadian citizen, you have the right to vote in Canadian elections regardless of whether you hold other citizenships. Some countries may also allow you to vote in their elections as a citizen abroad.

While Canada allows dual citizenship, your other country might not. Some countries require you to renounce other citizenships or may automatically revoke your citizenship if you voluntarily acquire another. Examples include:

Countries that generally do not allow dual citizenship:

• China
• India
• Japan
• Saudi Arabia
• Singapore
• UAE

Countries that may restrict dual citizenship:

• Germany (exceptions exist)
• Austria
• Netherlands (exceptions exist)

Countries that generally allow dual citizenship:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• France
• Mexico
• Philippines
• Australia

Canadian Tax Rules

Canada taxes based on residency, not citizenship. If you live in Canada, you pay Canadian taxes on your worldwide income, regardless of your other citizenships. If you move abroad, you may no longer be a Canadian tax resident.

Other Country Tax Rules

Some countries, notably the United States, tax their citizens regardless of where they live. If you are a US-Canadian dual citizen living in Canada, you must file tax returns in both countries (though tax treaties generally prevent double taxation).

Children born in Canada are automatically Canadian citizens. If their parents hold citizenship from another country, the child may also be a citizen of that country (depending on that country's laws).

Children born outside Canada to a Canadian parent may qualify for Canadian citizenship by descent (first generation born abroad). This applies regardless of whether the parent is a dual citizen.

While this guide focuses on gaining citizenship, it is worth noting that Canadian citizens can voluntarily renounce their citizenship if they wish. This is a formal process that requires applying to IRCC. You must already be a citizen of another country or be in the process of acquiring one — Canada will not leave you stateless.

When you become a Canadian citizen, you take the Oath of Citizenship, which includes swearing allegiance to the King of Canada. Taking this oath does not require you to renounce your other citizenship under Canadian law.

1. Travel flexibility — Use whichever passport is most convenient
2. Property rights — Own property in both countries without restrictions
3. Work anywhere — No work permit needed in either country
4. Education access — Pay domestic tuition rates in both countries
5. Healthcare — Access healthcare systems in both countries (where applicable)
6. Safety net — Cannot be deported from Canada as a citizen
7. Pass citizenship to children — Your children may inherit both citizenships

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