AUSTRIAN CITIZENSHIP

Austrian citizenship is based upon the Austrian citizenship law of 1965 as amended.

AUSTRIAN CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH: Child born in the territory of Austria, with at least one parent being a citizen of Austria. However, a child born out of wedlock to a foreign mother and an Austrian father is not considered a citizen. Unless the couple marries, child obtains the citizenship of the mother.

AUSTRIAN CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT: Child is born abroad, one of whose parents is an Austrian citizen. In case of a non-Austrian mother and an Austrian father, marriage law listed above applies.

AUSTRIAN CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION: Austrian citizenship can be applied for upon fulfillment of one of the following conditions:
- Person has lived in Austria for at least 10 years.
- Person has taken up a position as a professor at an Austrian University.
- Person is the foreign spouse of an Austrian citizen and has resided in Austria for at least five years.

AUSTRIAN DUAL CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
Exception: Child of Austrian citizens who was born in a foreign country and acquired citizenship according to the other country's laws. Also, in exceptional cases, Austrian authorities may permit an Austrian citizen who obtains a new citizenship to retain their Austrian citizenship.

LOSS OF AUSTRIAN CITIZENSHIP:
- VOLUNTARY: Under certain conditions, Austrian citizenship may be voluntarily renounced:
- Person possesses another citizenship.
- Person has no criminal proceedings, or criminal penalties of more than six months,
pending against them in Austria.
- Person, if male, has fulfilled required military service.
- INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for loss of citizenship:
- Person acquires citizenship of a foreign country.
- Person performs voluntary military service for a foreign country.
- Person has employment with a foreign government that is damaging to Austrian interests.

Austrian citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Austrian citizenship should be taken after consulting with an immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Austrian citizenship.

BELGIAN CITIZENSHIP

Belgian citizenship is based upon the Code of Belgian Nationality, dated June 28, 1984, and amended January 1, 1992.

BELGIAN CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the territory of Belgium does not automatically confer citizenship.

BELGIAN CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:

- Child born in Belgium, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Belgium. This same rule applies for an adopted child.
- Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents was a native-born citizen of Belgium. Parents have up to five years to register child.
- CHILDREN OF IMMIGRANTS: Belgian citizenship may be granted when:
- Child is born in Belgium to non-citizens who were also born in Belgium.
- Child is born to non-citizens who have lived in Belgium at least 10 years before the birth of the child and who have filed a citizenship claim for the child.
- Child born in Belgium, who has resided there continuously since birth, may make a
declaration of Belgian nationality between the ages of 18 and 30.

BELGIAN CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Belgian citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person is at least 18 years of age and has resided in country for at least 5 years.

DUAL BELGIAN CITIZENSHIP:
NOT RECOGNIZED. Exception: Belgian children born abroad, who received the citizenship of country of birth, may hold dual citizenship until age 18.

LOSS OF BELGIAN CITIZENSHIP:
- VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of citizenship can only be made if the person holds another citizenship or acquires it at the time of the declaration. Renunciations may be sent to the nearest Belgian Embassy.
- INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Belgian citizenship:
- Person voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
- Person, born abroad and not in the service of Belgium, who lives abroad from age 18 to 28, without making a declaration of citizenship.

Belgian citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Belgian citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Belgian immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Belgian citizenship.

CYPRIOT CITIZENSHIP

Cypriot Citizenship is based upon the Republic Law of 1967. The legal basis for citizenship is divided between those born before and those born after August 16, 1960, the date of independence. All questions regarding Turkish Cyprus should be directed to the Cypriot Embassy. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)

CYPRIOT CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:

All citizens of the United Kingdom and Colonies who were born in Cyprus between November 5, 1914, and August 16, 1960, and who were resident in Cyprus during the five years preceding independence (August 16, 1960).

CYPRIOT CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:

Person born in wedlock, after August 16, 1960, whose father is a citizen of Cyprus, regardless of the country of birth. In the event the father is unknown or stateless, Cypriot citizenship may be passed on by the mother.

DUAL CYPRIOT CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED.

LOSS OF CYPRIOT CITIZENSHIP CITIZENSHIP:
- VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Cypriot citizenship is permitted by law. Contact the Embassy for details and required paperwork. The following are not allowed to renounce citizenship:
- Persons who have not fulfilled their military requirements.
- Persons who are under sentence for criminal activities.
- INVOLUNTARY: The following reflect grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized Cypriot citizenship:
- Citizenship was gained under fraud or false statements.
- Person commits acts of disloyalty to the government of Cyprus.
- Person, within five years of being naturalized, begins to live continually abroad without registering with the Cypriot Consul.

[TURKISH CYPRIOT: According to the Cypriot Consul: "An exceptional situation was created in the part of the territory of the Republic of Cyprus which has remained outside the control of the Government of Cyprus since the invasion of Cyprus by Turkish troops in the summer of 1974. The Republic of Cyprus continues to recognize the citizenship and right to citizenship of all Turkish Cypriots and Cyprus Republic passports are issued to any persons who can provide proper documentation. However, the Republic of Cyprus does not consider those alien persons who have settled illegally and without its permission in the areas under control of the Turkish forces as legitimate claimants to Cypriot citizenship."]

Cypriot citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Cypriot citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Cypriot immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Cypriot citizenship.

CZECH CITIZENSHIP

Czech citizenship is based on an Act of January 1, 1993, of the Czech National Council on Acquisition and Loss of Citizenship, as amended by Law 272 dated October 12, 1993, on Law 140 dated June 28, 1995, and on Law 139 dated April 26, 1996. Any individual who was jointly a citizen (Czechoslovakian), or was a citizen of the Czech and Slovak Federal Republic on December 31, 1992, shall become a citizen of the Czech Republic.

CZECH CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
- Birth within the Czech Republic does not automatically confer citizenship.
- Persons under 17 years old, found in the Czech Republic, shall acquire Czech citizenship, if such person does not have citizenship of another country.
- Child born in the territory of the Czech Republic to stateless parents, one of whom has permanent residency in the Czech Republic.

CZECH CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of the Czech Republic.
- Child born out of wedlock, whose mother is not a Czech citizen, is only granted citizenship if their father is a Czech citizen. Either of the parents must declare paternity or a court judgement assigns paternity.
- OTHER: Any person who was a Czechoslovakian citizen up to December 31, 1992, and has not specified whether they are a Czech or Slovak citizen can choose Czech citizenship. They may proclaim this either at local district offices in the Czech Republic or at the Czech Embassies abroad.

CZECH CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Czech citizenship can be applied for upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has resided within the Czech Republic for at least five years, possesss knowledge of the Czech language, has renounced previous citizenship, and has not been convicted of a crime in the previous five years. The five year residency requirement may be waived if the person has permanent residency and falls under any of the following categories:
- Person was born in the territory of the Czech Republic.
- Person was a citizen of the Czech Republic or Czechoslovakia.
- Person is married to a Czech citizen.
- An adopted child, one of whose parents is a Czech citizen, shall acquire Czech citizenship at the date of adoption.

DUAL CZECH CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
Exception: Person has been living in the Czech Republic for five years and the law of their home country does not allow them to be released from their citizenship. Person obtains dual citizenship (citizenship ex-lege).

LOSS OF CZECH CITIZENSHIP:
- VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Czech citizenship is possible under the following conditions:
- Person does not live permanently in the Czech Republic.
- A Czech citizen shall lose Czech citizenship at the moment they acquire, at their own request, the citizenship of another country (unless it is acquired by marriage).
- Person has been living abroad for at least 10 years.
- INVOLUNTARY: The involuntary loss of citizenship is constitutionally prohibited.

Czech citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Czech citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Czech immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Czech citizenship.

DANISH CITIZENSHIP

Danish Citizenship is based on Danish Nationality Law. Danish Embassy officials state that Danish Nationality law is very complicated; they recommend contacting the Danish Embassy with any questions, particularly concerning dual citizenship.

DANISH CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:

Birth within the territory of Denmark does not automatically confer citizenship. The exception is a child born in Denmark to unknown parents.

DANISH CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:

Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Denmark, regardless of the child’s country of birth. Restrictions apply if the child is born prior to January 1, 1979, and only the mother is a citizen of Denmark.

DANISH CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:

Danish citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions:
- Person has resided in Denmark for 7 consecutive years.
- Person has proved that they no longer possesses former citizenship.

DUAL DANISH CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
Exceptions:
- Danish citizen who marries a foreign national and acquires spouse's citizenship is not required to renounce Danish citizenship.
- Child born abroad to Danish parents who acquires the nationality of the country of birth may keep dual citizenship until the age of 22. Before reaching the age of majority (22), the person must apply to retain citizenship. If person does not apply, their citizenship is lost.

LOSS OF DANISH CITIZENSHIP:
- VOLUNTARY: Person seeking to voluntarily renounce Danish citizenship must contact the nearest Danish Embassy, present proof of acquisition of new citizenship, and sign documents renouncing citizenship. These forms will be forwarded to Denmark by the Embassy for registration. The person will receive a confirmation of loss of citizenship from the Danish government.
- INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Danish citizenship: Voluntary acquisition of foreign citizenship.
Danish citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Danish citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Danish immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Danish citizenship.

ESTONIAN CITIZENSHIP

Estonian citizenship is based upon the Estonian citizenship Law passed by the Riigikogu (the Parliament) on January 19, 1995, with an effective date of April 1, 1995.

ESTONIAN CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:

Birth within the territory of Estonia does not automatically confer Estonian citizenship. The exception is a child born to unknown parents.

ESTONIAN CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:

Child of a recognized Estonian mother or father, regardless of the child’s country of birth, even if the father dies before birth.
- OTHER: The following are eligible to acquire Estonian citizenship:
- Foreign woman who married a citizen of Estonia before February 26, 1992.
- Child under 18 years of age, of a foreign mother who marries a citizen of Estonia and establishes permanent residency.
- Child born out of wedlock, who is legitimized (recognized) by the Estonian father.

ESTONIAN CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:

Estonian citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person is at least 15 years old, is familiar with the Estonian language, and has permanently resided in Estonia for at least five years. (Permanent residency time is calculated after March 30, 1990, but may be waived in certain situations.)
Persons Not Eligible For Naturalized Citizenship:
- Person convicted of a serious crime.
- Foreign military personnel on active duty.

DUAL ESTONIAN CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.

LOSS OF ESTONIAN CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Estonian citizenship is permitted by law. Persons who have not completed compulsory military service may not renounce citizenship. Contact Embassy for details and required paperwork.
INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Estonian citizenship:
- Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
- Person has entered into the military or civilian service of a foreign state.

Estonian citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Estonian citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Estonian immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Estonian citizenship.

FINNISH CITIZENSHIP

Finnish citizenship laws are based upon the Finnish Citizenship Act of June 28, 1968, amended in 1984.

FINNISH CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the territory of Finland does not automatically confer citizenship. The exception is a child who is stateless or whose parents are unknown.

FINNISH CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child born in wedlock of a Finnish father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
- Child born out of wedlock of a Finnish mother, regardless of the child’s country of birth.

FINNISH CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Finnish citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has renounced, or will renounce, former citizenship, is over 18 years of age, has continually resided in Finland for five years, has not committed any offenses, and has a means of support. (This does not apply to foreigners who marry Finnish nationals.)

DUAL FINNISH CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
Exceptions: Dual citizenship is accepted under these circumstances:
- Child acquires Finnish citizenship from one parent and another citizenship from the other parent.
- Finnish citizen who marries a foreigner and automatically acquires the nationality of the foreign spouse without formal request.
- Child born to Finnish parents who becomes a foreign citizen by birth in another country. A child born abroad (as dual citizen) must return to live in Finland before the age of 22 and upon reaching 22 must choose one nationality in order to retain Finnish citizenship.

LOSS OF FINNISH CITIZENSHIP:
Laws concerning automatic revocation of citizenship upon acquiring a new citizenship are conflicting. Finnish citizenship may not be lost by default. Person concerned with dual citizenship should formally make renunciation request.
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Finnish citizenship is permitted by law. Contact the Embassy for details and required paperwork.
INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Finnish citizenship: Person who acquires a foreign citizenship by enlisting in the service of another country.

Finnish citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Finnish citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Finnish immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Finnish citizenship.

FRENCH CITIZENSHIP

French citizenship laws are based upon the French Nationality Code.

FRENCH CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Child born within the territory of France, regardless of the nationality of the parents.

FRENCH CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of France.

FRENCH CITIZENSHIP MARRIAGE:
If the couple has been living in France for a year, after a period of two year's marriage to a French citizen, it is possible to make a declaration of French citizenship by marriage. If the couple is living outside of France, a three year waiting period is required. In addition to the many documents required to prove both the applicants nationality and the spouse's french nationality, there is a requirement for competency in the French language. The declaration of citizenship is made by the couple to the local court, or the French consulate if overseas. The declaration is accepted or rejected by decision of the Ministry of Justice.

FRENCH CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Persons seeking naturalization as French citizens face varying conditions. Residence circumstances are significant. These persons may seek naturalization:
- Person who has been a resident of France for five years.
- Person who has resided in France for two years and has a degree from a University or has rendered important service to France.
The following persons have no residency requirement and may seek naturalization:
- Person who has rendered exceptional service to France.
- Person who has served in a combat unit of the French Army.
- Person who is the spouse or minor child of a person acquiring French citizenship.

DUAL FRENCH CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED.

LOSS OF FRENCH CITIZENSHIP:
Final authority for loss of citizenship lies with the French government.
VOLUNTARY: Contact the French Embassy for details and proper paperwork.
INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of French citizenship: Person serves in a foreign military or civil service and has not complied with French orders to leave such service.

French citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning French citizenship should be taken after consulting with a French immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with French citizenship.

GERMAN CITIZENSHIP

German citizenship is based upon German citizenship law, the principle of descent from the parents (jus sanguinis), and, after January 1, 2000, jus soli.

GERMAN CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the Federal Republic of Germany does not automatically confer citizenship. However, from January 1, 2000, citizenship will be acquired by birth in Germany if one parent has lived in the country for eight years.
GERMAN CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child born in wedlock whose father or mother is a citizen of Germany.
- Child born out of wedlock whose father is stateless or unknown and whose mother is a citizen of Germany.
- Child born out of wedlock to a foreign woman and a German father will be granted German
citizenship upon the legitimization (recognition) of the child by the German father.
GERMAN CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
At the discretion of the German naturalization authority; 8 years residence in Germany is a requirement.

DUAL GERMAN CITIZENSHIP: In principle, not recognized.
Exceptions:
- German citizens abroad who acquire another citizenship can forego the automatic forfeiture of their German citizenship by obtaining a decree from the German authorities permitting them to retain their German citizenship.
- After January 1, 2000, dual citizenship is allowed until age 23.
LOSS OF GERMAN CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: The law allows Germans to petition for a release from German citizenship if they have applied for the acquisition of foreign citizenship and the authorities of the foreign state have stated that they will be naturalized. Petitions may be directed to the federal government in Germany or the nearest German Embassy.
INVOLUNTARY: Voluntary acquisition of foreign citizenship without having received a decree from the German authorities permitting concurrent retention of German citizenship.

German citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning German citizenship should be taken after consulting with a German immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with German citizenship.

GREEK CITIZENSHIP

Greek citizenship laws are based upon the Code of Greek Citizenship, amended in 1968 and 1984.

GREEK CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the territory of Greece does not automatically confer citizenship. The only exceptions are abandoned children or children of stateless parents.

GREEK CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child born in wedlock, of a Greek father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
- Child born out of wedlock, of a Greek mother and an unknown or stateless father, regardless of the child’s country of birth.

GREEK CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
For the foreign person who is not of Greek origin, it is required in addition: a) that he is legally residing in Greece ten years in total within the last twelve years before the lodgment of the application for naturalization. For the foreign persons who do not have the citizenship of any country or for the foreign persons who have been recognized as refugees, five years of residence in Greece within the last twelve years is enough before they lodge the citizenship application. The precondition of the ten-year residence is not required for the spouse of a Greek, who is residing for at least three years in Greece and has acquired a child, as well as for the person who is born and resides permanently in Greece.

DUAL GREEK CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
Exception: Greek law does not automatically remove citizenship upon a person acquiring a foreign citizenship. When a Greek citizen acquires another nationality, they are technically a dual citizen until the Greek government has given permission for the removal of Greek citizenship.

LOSS OF GREEK CITIZENSHIP: A person may not acquire a foreign citizenship until they have received permission from the Ministry of the Interior to renounce Greek citizenship. One cannot assume Greek citizenship to be lost by default.
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Greek citizenship is permitted by law, after receiving permission from the Ministry of the Interior. Those who have not fulfilled required military service or have been prosecuted for a felony are not granted permission to renounce Greek citizenship. Contact Embassy for details and required paperwork.
INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Greek citizenship:
- Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
- Person undertakes service with a foreign country.
- Person has committed acts contrary to the national interest of Greece.

HUNGARIAN CITIZENSHIP

Hungarian citizenship laws are based upon Hungarian citizenship Law 55 dated June 1, 1993.

HUNGARIAN CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the territory of Hungary does not automatically confer citizenship. The exception is a child born to unknown or stateless parents.

HUNGARIAN CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Hungary, regardless of the child’s country of birth.

HUNGARIAN CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Hungarian citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions:
- Persons with no ethnic ties to Hungary must reside in the country for eight years.
- Foreigners who marry Hungarian nationals, or who are parents of Hungarian citizen
minors, or who have been adopted by Hungarian nationals, or who have been recognized as refugees by Hungarian authorities, need only reside in the country for three years.
- Members of an ethnic Hungarian minority of another country need only reside in the
country for one year.

DUAL HUNGARIAN CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED.
LOSS OF HUNGARIAN CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Hungarian citizenship is permitted. Persons seeking to renounce citizenship must address a written statement to the President of the Republic. The Embassy can provide information and assistance, but is not able to act for the person.
INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Hungarian citizenship:Naturalized citizenship was gained by false statements.

Hungarian citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Hungarian citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Hungarian immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Hungarian citizenship.

IRISH CITIZENSHIP

Irish citizenship is based upon the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act of 1956.

IRISH CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Child born within the territory of Ireland, regarding to the citizenship of the parents. If parents are foreigners different rules apply. See here for further info.

IRISH CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
Child born abroad, whose father or mother or grandparent was an Irish citizen by birth.

IRISH CITIZENSHIP MARRIAGE:
Foreigner who marries an Irish citizen can apply for Irish citizenship after three years of marriage.

IRISH CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION: Irish citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following condition: Person has resided in Ireland for a cumulative period of four years out of eight. The last year of residence before application for citizenship must be continual.

DUAL IRISH CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED.
LOSS OF IRISH CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Irish citizenship is permitted by law. Letters of renunciation should be sent to the Department of Justice in Dublin. Contact the Embassy for details and required paperwork.
INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of naturalized citizenship: citizenship was obtained through fraud or false statement.

Irish citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Irish citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Irish immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Irish citizenship.

ITALIAN CITIZENSHIP

Italian citizenship is based upon the Italian Law on Nationality amended February 5, 1992.

ITALIAN CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the territory of Italy does not confer citizenship. Exceptions: A child born to unknown parents, and a child born in Italy, who resides there legally and uninterruptedly until reaching age 18, and who specifically requests Italian citizenship.

ITALIAN CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
Child, at least one of whose parents is an Italian citizen, regardless of the child’s country of birth. Italian law makes provisions for citizenship to be granted to persons
with specific familial ties to Italy.

ITALIAN CITIZENSHIP BY MARRIAGE:
Person who marries an Italian national is eligible for citizenship unless person
has been involved in any criminal proceeding.

ITALIAN CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Certain persons may acquire Italian citizenship upon completion of these periods of legal residency:
- Three years for those with familial ties to Italy.
- Four years for nationals of the European Community.
- Five years for refugees, foreigners of legal age adopted by Italians, and persons who
worked abroad in the service of Italy.
- Ten years for others not falling into above categories.

DUAL ITALIAN CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED.
Amendment dated August 16, 1992, states those Italian citizens who acquire U.S. citizenship will retain Italian citizenship unless they voluntarily renounce their Italian citizenship.

LOSS OF ITALIAN CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation is permitted by Italian law, though is not required when acquiring a foreign citizenship. Contact Embassy for details and required paperwork.
INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Italian citizenship: Person voluntarily chooses to serve in the military of a foreign state, especially during a declared state of war.

Italian citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Italian citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Italian immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Italian citizenship.

LATVIAN CITIZENSHIP

Latvian citizenship regulations are set in the Citizenship Law of the Republic of Latvia.

LATVIAN CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- A child whose parents were citizens of Latvia on the day of birth, regardless of the child’s place of birth.
- If, at the time of birth, one of the parents is a citizen of Latvia and the other parent is an alien, if the child was born in Latvia..
- A child born outside of Latvia, but both parents otherwise permanently reside in Latvia.
- A child born outside of Latvia, but the parent with whom the child lives otherwise
permanently resides in Latvia.
- If, at the time of birth, one parent is a citizen of Latvia and the other parent is an alien and the permanent place of residence of both parents is outside Latvia, then the child's citizenship shall be decided upon by mutual agreement of the parents.
- If, at the time of birth, one parent is a Latvian citizen and the other parent is stateless or is unknown, then the child shall be a Latvian citizen regardless of the child’s place of birth.

LATVIAN CITIZENSHIP BY MARRIAGE:
The marriage of a Latvian citizen to an alien or a stateless person, and the dissolution of such marriage, shall not cause a change in citizenship of Latvian citizens. The acquisition or loss of the citizenship of Latvia by one spouse does not affect the citizenship of the other spouse.

LATVIAN CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
- A person can be granted the citizenship of Latvia through naturalization, upon their
request.
- The citizenship of Latvia shall be granted through naturalization only to those who are registered in the Residents’ Registry and who comply with other (unspecified) conditions established by the Citizenship Law.

DUAL LATVIAN CITIZENSHIP: Not recognized. If a citizen of Latvia simultaneously can be considered a citizen or subject of a foreign country in accordance with the laws of that country, the citizen shall be considered solely a citizen of Latvia in relations with the Republic of Latvia.

LOSS OF LATVIAN CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY:
- Any person, who is a citizen of another state or has been guaranteed the citizenship of another state, shall be entitled to renounce Latvian citizenship. An application to renounce citizenship can be denied if the person has not fulfilled obligations to the state or if the person has not fulfilled military service obligations. A decision to deny an application for the renunciation of citizenship can be appealed to the courts.
INVOLUNTARY: Latvian citizenship may be revoked by a decision of a Regional Court, if:
- Person has acquired the citizenship of another state without submitting an application for renunciation of citizenship of Latvia.
- Person is serving in the armed forces, military forces, security service, police (militia), or is employed in a juridical institution of a foreign state, without permission from the Cabinet of Ministers;
- Person has intentionally provided false information when verifying their right to hold Latvian citizenship or has illegally obtained the citizenship of Latvia.
The revocation of Latvian citizenship shall not affect the citizenship of the person's spouse, children, or other family members.

Latvian citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Latvian citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Latvian immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Latvian citizenship.

LITHUANIAN CITIZENSHIP

Lithuanian citizenship is based upon the Law on Citizenship of the Republic of Lithuania, dated December 5, 1991. Persons who possessed Lithuanian citizenship prior to June 15, 1940, their children and grandchildren, must apply for citizenship to the Lithuanian Embassy.

LITHUANIAN CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within Lithuania does not automatically confer citizenship. The exception is a child of unknown or stateless parents.

LITHUANIAN CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child, both of whose parents are citizens of Lithuania, regardless of child’s country of birth.
- Child born abroad, one of whose parents is a citizen of Lithuania.
- Child born abroad, one of whose parents is a citizen of Lithuania with permanent residence in Lithuania.

LITHUANIAN CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Lithuanian citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has passed examinations in the Lithuanian language and in the basic provisions of the Constitution, has permanently resided in Lithuania for at least 10 years, has a permanent place of employment or a legal source of support, and is a stateless person or has renounced previous citizenship.

LITHUANIAN CITIZENSHIP BY MARRIAGE:
Foreigner who marries a citizen of Lithuania must fulfill all the basic naturalization requirements except that residency requirement is three years after marriage.

DUAL LITHUANIAN CITIZENSHIP:
Not generally recognized. Specificity not provided.

LOSS OF LITHUANIAN CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Lithuanian citizenship is permitted by law. Contact Embassy for details and required paperwork.
INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Lithuanian citizenship:
- Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.
- Person lives abroad over 3 years without government permission.
- Person enters the civilian or military service of a foreign state.

Lithianian citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Lithianian citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Lithianian immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Lithianian citizenship.

LUXEMBOURG CITIZENSHIP

Luxembourg citizenship is governed by the Law of January 1, 1987. This Law is based on the principle of descent (jus sanguinis).

LUXEMBOURG CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the territory of Luxembourg does not automatically confer citizenship.

LUXEMBOURG CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child whose father or mother is a citizen of Luxembourg, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
- Child born out of wedlock to a foreign mother and Luxembourger father is considered a citizen of Luxembourg if paternity is legally established.

LUXEMBOURG CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Application for Luxembourg citizenship through naturalization falls into two categories:
- Naturalization:
- Citizenship granted through the Legislature requires a 10-year residency in
Luxembourg as well as sufficient (unspecified) national assimilation.
- Option Policy:
- The Option is reserved for various categories of foreigners who have special ties with the country (birth within the territory, adoption, or marriage to a Luxembourg national). Citizenship is granted by declaration, subject to the approval of the Minister of Justice.

DUAL LUXEMBOURG CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
Exception: Child born abroad to Luxembourg citizens, who acquires another citizenship due to laws in the country of birth. However, at the age of 18 a decision must be made of which nationality the individual wishes to maintain. Upon this decision, the other nationality must be renounced.

LOSS OF LUXEMBOURG CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Luxembourger citizenship must be done in the country. Persons living in Luxembourg make their declaration before a civil officer in their local area. In eight days the person will receive a certificate of renunciation. Four days later, the renunciation will be published in the Gazette, making it final. If the person resides out of the country, the declaration must be made in the capital, Luxembourg City, before a civil officer.
INVOLUNTARY: The following are grounds for involuntary loss of Luxembourger citizenship:
- Voluntary acquisition of a foreign citizenship.
- Grave crime against the State of Luxembourg (applies only to naturalized citizens).
Luxembourg citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Luxembourg citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Luxembourg immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Luxembourg citizenship.

MALTA CITIZENSHIP

Maltese citizenship for the Republic of Malta is based on the 1964 Constitution, as amended, and the Maltese Citizenship Act. (UKC-Commonwealth Nation)

MALTESE CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
- Persons born between September 21, 1964 and January 8, 1989: Child born within the territory of Malta, regardless of the nationality of the parents.
- Persons Born On or after January 8, 1989: Birth within the territory of Malta does not automatically confer citizenship.
- Persons born in the territory of Malta, on or before September 21, 1964: Child of a
Maltese-born parent.

MALTESE CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child born on or before September 21, 1964: Child born abroad, whose father or paternal grandparents were born in Malta and who were also citizens of the United Kingdom and Colonies (UKC).
- Child born between September 21, 1964 and January 8, 1989: Child born abroad, whose father was a citizen of Malta.
- Child born on or after January 8, 1989: Child born abroad, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Malta.
- Child born between September 21, 1964 and January 8, 1989: Child born abroad, whose mother was a citizen of Malta; conditional citizenship circumstances, contact Embassy)

MALTESE CITIZENSHIP BY MARRIAGE:
Foreign national who marries a citizen of Malta is eligible to register for Maltese citizenship.

MALTESE CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Maltese citizenship is acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person must be 18 years or older, have resided in Malta for at least five years, and have renounced previous citizenship.

DUAL MALTESE CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
Exceptions:
- Child born abroad, who obtains the citizenship of the birth country, is allowed to maintain dual citizenship until age 19. Person then has from age 19 to 20 to renounce foreign citizenship or Maltese citizenship will be revoked.
- Certain native-born Maltese emigrants are permitted to possess dual citizenship. If questions arise, contact the Embassy.

LOSS OF MALTESE CITIZENSHIP:
- VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Maltese citizenship is permitted by law. Contact the Embassy for details and required paperwork.
- INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of citizenship: Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship.

Maltese citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Maltese citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Maltese immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Maltese citizenship.

DUTCH CITIZENSHIP

Dutch citizenship is based upon the Dutch Nationality Act of 1984.

DUTCH CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of the Netherlands does not automatically confer citizenship.

DUTCH CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child born in wedlock, one of whose parents is a Dutch citizen.
- Child adopted, one of whose parents is a Dutch citizen and the adoption is in accordance with Dutch law.
- Child born out of wedlock whose mother is a Dutch citizen.
- Child born out of wedlock, of a foreign mother and Dutch father -- citizenship will not be granted until the child is legitimized and recognized by the Dutch father.

DUTCH CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Dutch citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions:
- Having resided continually in the country for at least five years and able to speak the Dutch language.
- Foreign spouses of Dutch nationals may apply for citizenship after three years of marriage, provided they are able to speak the Dutch language.

DUAL DUTCH CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
Exceptions:
- Dutch child born abroad who acquires the citizenship of country of birth. Upon reaching the age of majority, person must chose which nationality to keep.
- Person, who involuntarily obtains another citizenship may not be asked to renounce Dutch citizenship. Questions concerning dual citizenship and what constitutes involuntary acquisition of a foreign citizenship are not entirely clear in Dutch courts. In cases where the status of Dutch dual citizenship is unclear, contact the Dutch consulate for clarification.

LOSS OF DUTCH CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Dutch citizenship may be accomplished in the Netherlands or abroad. Dutch citizens living abroad may send letters of renunciation to the nearest Dutch embassy or consulate.
INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Dutch citizenship: Voluntary acquisition of foreign citizenship.

Dutch citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Dutch citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Dutch immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Dutch citizenship.

NORWEGIAN CITIZENSHIP

Norwegian citizenship is defined by the Norwegian Nationality Act of December 8, 1950.

NORWEGIAN CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the territory of Norway does not automatically confer citizenship. Only in rare cases will citizenship be granted. Abandoned children of unknown parents are considered Norwegian citizens.

NORWEGIAN CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child born in wedlock acquires Norwegian nationality if the father or mother is a Norwegian national.
- Child born out of wedlock acquires Norwegian nationality if the mother is a Norwegian national.

NORWEGIAN CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Norwegian citizenship may be granted upon fulfillment of the following conditions:
- Person is at least 18 years of age.
- Person has resided in Norway for the past seven years and has a record of good conduct.
- Does not owe more than NOK 20,000 in connection with child maintenance payments.
- Residence time limit for individuals married to a Norwegian national is computed thus: Take the period of time the individual has been married and add the period of time of residence in Norway. To be eligible for naturalization, the total must amount to at least eight years.
- Nordic nationals (from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden) are granted Norwegian
nationality after living in Norway for two years.
- Children are included in a parent’s application; adopted children are included, provided the adoption can be approved in Norway.

DUAL NORWEGIAN CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
Exceptions: The Norwegian Nationality Act permits an individual to be a national of more than one country in the following cases:
- If the individual acquired dual nationality at birth from their parents.
- If the individual was born of Norwegian parents in a country where a second nationality is based on birth in the country.
- If an individual is granted Norwegian nationality in accordance with the provision relating to “Notification through the County Governor’s Office” and “Persons born before 1979” whereby the former nationality is not automatically lost.

LOSS OF NORWEGIAN CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of citizenship is granted under the condition that a new citizenship has been granted or soon will be granted. Letters of renunciation may be sent to nearest Norwegian Embassy.
INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Norwegian citizenship:Person voluntarily obtains foreign citizenship.

Norwegian citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Norwegian citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Norwegian immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Norwegian citizenship.

POLISH CITIZENSHIP

Polish citizenship is governed by the Constitution of the Republic of Poland and the Citizenship Act of February 15, 1962.

POLISH CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the territory of the Republic of Poland does not automatically confer citizenship. A child who was born in or is found within the territory of Poland acquires citizenship if both parents are unknown, whose citizenship cannot be established, or who is stateless.

POLISH CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child acquires citizenship regardless of the child’s country of birth if both parents are citizens of Poland, or if one of the parents is a citizen of Poland and the other is not known, of unknown citizenship, or is stateless.
- Child, one of whose parents is a citizen of a foreign country, and the child acquires Polish citizenship by birth: The child’s parents must submit an affidavit explaining these circumstances to Polish authorities within three months of the child’s birth. The parents may choose foreign citizenship for the child if the laws of the foreign country grant the child citizenship based on descent from the foreign parent. Formal recognition of Polish citizenship by descent can be granted to this child at age 16 if an affidavit expressing the child’s will to become a Polish citizen is executed before, and submitted to, the Polish authorities.

POLISH CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Citizenship can be granted by the President of the Republic of Poland. An alien is eligible to apply for citizenship if:
- They have resided in Poland as a lawful resident for at least 5 years.
- They submit of evidence of the loss (or renunciation) of foreign citizenship.

DUAL POLISH CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED. Poland does not recognize dual citizenship of its citizens. Polish law does not forbid a Polish citizen from becoming the citizen of a foreign state but Polish authorities will only recognize the Polish citizenship.

LOSS OF POLISH CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of citizenship may be in Poland or through the nearest Polish embassy. A Polish citizen may gain foreign citizenship after receiving permission from the President of the Republic of Poland to renounce Polish citizenship. The loss of citizenship is effective on a date it is granted; Polish citizens with promissory citizenship in a foreign state would be then be stateless if they had not yet acquired that citizenship.
INVOLUNTARY: The Constitution prohibits an involuntary loss of Polish citizenship.

Polish citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Polish citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Polish immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Polish citizenship.

PORTUGUESE CITIZENSHIP

Portuguese citizenship is based upon Citizenship Law #37/81, dated 1981, and regulated by Decree Law #322/82.

PORTUGUESE CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the territory of Portugal does not automatically confer Portuguese citizenship.

PORTUGUESE CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Portugal, regardless of the child’s country of birth. Parents of a child born abroad must make a declaration of desire for Portuguese citizenship for the child and register the child either at a Portuguese consulate abroad or at government offices in Portugal.

PORTUGUESE CITIZENSHIP BY REGISTRATION:
The following are eligible for citizenship by registration:
- Foreign spouses who have been married to a Portuguese citizen for over 3 years.
- Foreign child adopted by Portuguese citizens.

PORTUGUESE CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Portuguese citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions:
- Person is at least 21 years old.
- Person has resided in Portugal for at least six years if originally from a Portuguese
speaking country or for 10 years for other nationals.
- Person has a working knowledge of Portuguese.
- Person possesses a good moral character and civil record.
- Person has a viable means of support.

DUAL PORTUGUESE CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED.
Exception: Portuguese citizens who obtained a second citizenship prior to October of 1981 lost their Portuguese citizenship under the previous Citizenship Law #2098, dated July, 1959. Upon adoption of the new law, # 37/81, these persons were able to petition for the return of their Portuguese citizenship.

LOSS OF PORTUGUESE CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Portuguese citizenship is permitted by law. Contact the Embassy for details and required paperwork.
INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Portuguese citizenship: Upon reaching age 21, dual citizen does not formally express their desire to maintain their Portuguese citizenship.

Portuguese citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Portuguese citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Portuguese immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Portuguese citizenship.

SLOVAK CITIZENSHIP

Slovak citizenship Law is based upon the National Council of the Slovak citizenship Law dated 1993. Persons who were citizens of the Slovak Republic up to December 31, 1992, are considered Slovak citizen.

SLOVAK CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the territory of Slovakia does not automatically confer Slovak citizenship. Exceptions:
- Child born in Slovakia to parents who are unknown or stateless.
- Child born in Slovakia who did not automatically receive the citizenship of foreign parents.

SLOVAK CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child, one of whose parents is a citizen of Slovakia, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
- Child adopted by a citizen of Slovakia.

SLOVAK CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Slovak citizenship is acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has been permanently residing in the territory for at least five years, has a command of the Slovak language, and has not been pronounced guilty of a deliberate crime within the last five years. Foreigners married to Slovak nationals need not fulfill these requirements.

DUAL SLOVAK CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED. If a citizen of Slovakia holds another citizenship, their Slovak citizenship is considered to be dominant.

LOSS OF SLOVAK CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY:
- Voluntary renunciation of citizenship is possible only on the condition that the applicant is able to prove citizenship of another state or that the granting of citizenship can be reasonably assumed. Release of Slovak citizenship is possible only upon an individual's own petition. Decisions regarding release from citizenship are made by the District Offices. Citizenship is cancelled upon receipt of the document of renunciation.
- Persons involved in criminal proceedings, serving a prison term, or who are delinquent in their taxes or debts are not allowed to renounce citizenship.
INVOLUNTARY: Slovak citizenship cannot be revoked by a decision of any state authority.

Slovak citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Slovak citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Slovak immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Slovak citizenship.

SLOVENIAN CITIZENSHIP

Slovenian citizenship is based on the Citizenship Act of June 25, 1991.

SLOVENIAN CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
- Child born in the Republic of Slovenia with at least one parent a citizen.
- Child born in the Republic of Slovenia with unknown parents, or parents with no citizenship.

SLOVENIAN CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
Children born abroad to Slovenian citizens must meet the following requirements to be granted citizenship:
- Both parents must be citizens of Slovenia.
- One parent is unknown or has no citizenship, but the other parent is a citizen of Slovenia.
- Child must either be registered with appropriate authorities or return home to Slovenia as a permanent resident before the age of 18.
- After age 18, a person who was not registered and is now considered a legal adult, can still obtain Slovenian citizenship by personally declaring for Slovenian citizenship before the age of 23.

SLOVENIAN CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Slovenian citizenship can be acquired by fulfillment of the following conditions.
- Person must be at least 18 years old.
- Person must have lived in the Republic for at least 10 years, the most recent five years prior to the petition for citizenship without interruption.
- Descendants of Slovenian expatriates, up to the third generation, and foreign spouses of Slovenian citizens, need only reside for one year.
- Person must have an assured residence and means of support.
- Person must prove by examination a working knowledge of the Slovenian language.
- Person must have been released from previous citizenship or can prove that such a release will be granted if the person acquires citizenship of the Republic of Slovenia.
- The person has not been sentenced for a criminal offence anywhere for a prison term longer than one year.
- There must be no ban on the person’s residence in the Republic of Slovenia.
- Acceptance into citizenship must present no threat to public order or the security and defense of the State.
- The person must have all tax duties paid.
- A Citizen of another republic who had permanent residence in the Republic of Slovenia on December 23, 1990 may apply for citizenship.

DUAL SLOVENIAN CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
Exception: Slovenian expatriates who may had involuntarily fled the country, as well as their descendants, are the only categories of people in the dual citizenship category. This policy is now in flux; any questions regarding the possibility of dual citizenship should be directed to the Slovenian Consul.
LOSS OF SLOVENIAN CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Renunciation of citizenship is permitted if the conditions listed below are met:
- Person is over 18 and lives in a foreign country.
- Person has no military service obligations.
- All debts and legal obligations have been satisfied.
- The person faces no pending criminal proceedings.
- Person has proof that foreign citizenship will be granted.
- If new citizenship is not adopted within one year, decree of dismissal may be cancelled.
- Children (under 18) lose their citizenship upon the request of their parents. If the child is older than 14 years, the child must give their consent to the loss of citizenship.
- The petition for loss of citizenship can be rejected if the interests of the State take precedence.
INVOLUNTARY: A citizen of Slovenia, residing in a foreign country and in possession of foreign citizenship, may involuntarily be deprived of Slovenian citizenship if any of the following apply:
- The person is a member of any organization engaged in activities to overthrow the government of the Republic of Slovenia.
- The person is a member of a foreign intelligence service jeopardizing the interests of the Republic, or harms such interests by serving under a government authority or organization of a foreign state.
- If a person is frequently sentenced for criminal offences or prosecuted for public order offences.
- If a person declines to fulfil duties that are mandatory for a citizen of the Republic of Slovenia.

Slovenian citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Slovenian citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Slovenian immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Slovenian citizenship.

BRITISH CITIZENSHIP

British citizenship is regulated by the British Nationality Act of 1984.

Due to Great Britain's historic relationship with its former colonies and the British Commonwealth, certain groups of peoples fall into special categories. British citizenship requirements and special considerations for these groups are frequently different than for those considered to be foreign nationals and, to a degree, are different from category to category. Persons included in these special categories are:
- British Dependent Territories Citizens
- British Overseas Citizens
- British Subjects
- British Protected Persons
- Commonwealth Citizens
- Citizens of the Republic of Ireland.
After January 1, 1983, the following qualify for British citizenship:

BRITISH CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
- Child born in the United Kingdom, at least one of whose parents is a British citizen or has settled in the United Kingdom.
- Child born in the United Kingdom whose parents are unknown.

BRITISH CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child born overseas to a British citizen if at least one of his parents is a British citizen other than by descent.
- Child born overseas to a British citizen in service to the Crown.
- Child born outside of the United Kingdom with certain family connections (unspecified) to the United Kingdom.

OTHER:
- Child adopted by Order of the Court of the United Kingdom.
- Person registered by the Secretary of State as a British citizen. (Often used for children born abroad to British citizens.)

BRITISH CITIZENSHIP SPECIAL CATEGORIES:
Persons falling into these categories may be registered as British citizens if they have lived in the United Kingdom lawfully for five years; the twelve months preceding the application must be of continuous residence.
- British Overseas Citizen
- British Subject
- British Protected Person
- British Dependent Territory Citizen

BRITISH CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
British citizenship may be granted upon fulfillment of the following conditions:
- Person has been a resident of the United Kingdom for five years.
- Persons married to British citizens are required to reside in the United Kingdom for the three years preceding application, with certain restrictions on periods spent outside the United Kingdom.
- Person is of good character and has sufficient knowledge of English, Welsh, or Scottish Gaelic.
- Person intends on remaining in the United Kingdom or entering Crown service.

DUAL BRITISH CITIZENSHIP: RECOGNIZED.

LOSS OF BRITISH CITIZENSHIP:
Unless it is required for other reasons, British citizens need not renounce their citizenship upon obtaining a foreign citizenship. Those who have voluntarily renounced British citizenship are entitled to reacquire it once. Otherwise, the resumption of British citizenship is at the discretion of the Secretary of State.
VOLUNTARY: A completed application for renunciation, together with documentary evidence of citizenship, plus fee, should be submitted to the British Embassy. Application will be sent to England to be processed for approval. In approximately two months the person will receive the processed application as acceptance of the renunciation.

British citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning British citizenship should be taken after consulting with a British immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with British citizenship.

SPANISH CITIZENSHIP

Spanish citizenship based on the Articles 17 through 26 of the “Codigo Civil” that was modified by Laws 18/1990 and 29/1995.

SPANISH CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the territory of Spain does not automatically confer citizenship. The exception is a child born to unknown or stateless parents.

SPANISH CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child, at least one of whose parents is a citizen of Spain, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
- Child born of non-Spanish citizen parents, provided at least one of the parents was born in Spain.

SPANISH CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Spanish citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of conditions which vary according to the person involved.
- Persons with no ties to Spain must reside in the country for at least 10 years.
- Persons who are former nationals of Portugal, the Philippines, or certain South American countries need only reside for two years.
- Persons who were born in Spain, who have married a citizen of Spain, or who were born outside of Spain of a mother or father who was originally Spanish, need only reside one year.

DUAL SPANISH CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
Exception: Spain has dual citizenship treaties with the following countries: Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Peru, the Dominican Republic, Argentina, and Honduras. Spaniards residing in the above countries do not lose their rights as Spaniards if they adopt the nationality of the country of residence. For all other countries, Spanish citizenship is revoked upon the acquisition of foreign citizenship.

LOSS OF SPANISH CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Spanish citizenship is permitted by law. Submission of a Letter of renunciation and passport is required. Contact the Spanish Embassy for more details and required paperwork.
INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Spanish citizenship: Person voluntarily acquires citizenship of a country with which Spain does not have a dual citizenship agreement.

Spanish citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Spanish citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Spanish immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Spanish citizenship.

SWEDISH CITIZENSHIP

Swedish citizenship is based upon the Swedish Nationality Law.

SWEDISH CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH:
Birth within the territory of Sweden does not automatically confer citizenship.

SWEDISH CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child born in wedlock, whose father is a citizen of Sweden, regardless of the child’s country of birth.
- Child born out of wedlock, whose mother is a citizen of Sweden and whose father is
unknown or stateless, regardless of the child’s country of birth.

SWEDISH CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Swedish citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person is at least 18 years of age, has resided in Sweden for at least five years, has led a respectable life, and has renounced former citizenship.

DUAL SWEDISH CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
Exceptions: Child who obtains a foreign citizenship through birth abroad or by having parents of different nationalities may retain dual citizenship. However, if the child was born abroad and has never resided in Sweden, Swedish citizenship will be lost at age 22 unless an application to retain it is made. Any Swedish citizen can retain dual citizenship, as long as dual citizenship was not obtained through a conscious desire to voluntarily obtain a foreign citizenship.

LOSS OF SWEDISH CITIZENSHIP:
Loss of a person's citizenship also applies to any of the person's minor children.
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of citizenship is permitted under Swedish law. Person must present proof of new citizenship. Contact the Swedish Embassy for details and required paperwork.
INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Swedish citizenship: Person voluntarily acquires a foreign citizenship and does not fall into a category of dual citizenship exception.

Swedish citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Swedish citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Swedish immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Swedish citizenship.