Into the Labyrinth of Double Citizenship: One Ticket to Varied Shores
Not every country likes too well that their citizens have other nationalities. First things first, therefore: you need to check whether your home country allows for double citizenship in the first place. Italy is a country that welcomes dual citizens. How do you get dual citizenship? Read more now on dual citizenship advice
Well, some claim citizenship by descent. Your heritage may be your golden ticket. Many European countries have a soft corner-a certain amount of nostalgia if you will-for the descendants of their 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.
Or you can try naturalization. Some countries offer a fast track if you have lived there for a set number of years, worked there, or married a citizen. Some countries require language and cultural tests as part of the naturalization process. You are weaving yourself into the tapestry of the country by jumping through hoops. Imagine this: The nation will only give you the keys if you prove to be a responsible resident.
But at what point does one start on such a journey of dual citizenship? You can get some good legal advice to make it all clear. Legalese, or those fluent in this particular language of citizenship, will add meaning and clear the mist off the stipulations involved. This is similar to having GPS in an unfamiliar city without signs. It will save you time and 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! Dual citizenship does not always come with 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. Voting obligation or mandatory military conscription could also suddenly emerge unannounced.
You will be able to see how pages of legal jargon can become a funny, kind, warning tale. An imaginary world. These stories of adventures, pitfalls, and experiences will not only enlighten, but also make the journey to dual citizenship funny.