Into the Labyrinth of Double Citizenship: One Ticket to Varied Shores

Some countries do not like it when their citizens hold other nationalities. First things first, therefore: you need to check whether your home country allows for double citizenship in the first place. If you tap into your roots, well, Italy gives the green flag to dual citizens. How do you get dual citizenship? Read more now on dual citizenship advice

Well, some claim citizenship by descent. Your heritage could be your golden ticket. Many European countries are nostalgic towards the descendants of their own citizens. You usually have to prove that an ancestor was once a national, which is often a search through dusty documents or a hunt for old birth certificates.


You can also try naturalization. You may be eligible for a faster process if you've lived in the country for a certain number of years, have worked there or are married to a citizen. Some countries require language and cultural tests as part of the naturalization process. It is sort of like a rite of passage, doing the hoops as you weave yourself into the nation's tapestry. Imagine this: The nation will only give you the keys if you prove to be a responsible resident.


What is the best way to begin this journey? Find your way to some legal advice that would make sense of it all. Legalese, or those fluent in this particular language of citizenship, will add meaning and clear the mist off the stipulations involved. It is like having GPS in a city with no signs-saving you from wasted time and possible headaches.


There are many stories of expats who have crossed borders and bridged cultural gaps along the way. The American musician who prefers the pulsating rain in Dublin to California's sunshine; the Canadian artist who finds his inspiration in the charms of Paris.


But stop your horses before you get there! Not everything that is glittering about dual citizenship is advantages. Taxation can become a problem when certain countries, such as Uncle Sam, think that all income should be sent to their country, no matter where you camp, whether in a tent or sandcastle. Unannounced voting obligations or military conscription may also be introduced.


Hear the pros and cons of others-expats-and read from them through their blogs, participate in online forums, and you will actually realize pages of jargon-filled legality become life-a real life-funny, kind, cautioning tale, an imaginary world. These stories of adventures, pitfalls, and experiences will not only enlighten, but also make the journey to dual citizenship funny.