Dual citizenship in the UK
Last reviewed · Reviewed by the BritainTest editorial team
A common worry when applying for British citizenship is whether you will have to give up your current nationality. The good news is that the UK allows dual citizenship. The catch is that your other country's rules may not. This guide explains what to check. It is general information, not immigration advice. For the whole process, see our how to become a British citizen guide.
Does the UK allow dual citizenship?
Yes. The UK allows you to be a British citizen and also hold the citizenship of one or more other countries. You do not have to give up another nationality to become British, as far as UK law is concerned. You can also become a citizen of another country without losing your British citizenship.
Your other country's rules matter
This is the important part. Some countries do not allow dual citizenship. If yours is one of them, becoming a British citizen could mean you automatically lose your original citizenship. The UK cannot change or advise on another country's law, so you must check with that country's government or embassy before you apply.
What it means in practice
A dual citizen can hold two passports, one from each country. You may have rights and responsibilities in both countries, which can include things like tax or, in some countries, military service. Being a citizen of two countries can also affect which passport you use to travel, so it is worth understanding both sets of rules.
Check before you apply
Before you apply for British citizenship, find out whether your country allows dual nationality, so you do not lose your original citizenship by surprise. Check your own country's rules with its authorities, and confirm the British side on GOV.UK.
Frequently asked questions
- Does the UK allow dual citizenship?
- Yes. You can be a British citizen and hold the citizenship of one or more other countries at the same time.
- Do I have to give up my nationality to become British?
- Not as far as the UK is concerned. But your other country's rules may differ, so check with that country.
- Can some countries take away my citizenship if I become British?
- Yes. Some countries do not allow dual citizenship and may remove yours if you become British. Check with that country's authorities.
- Can I hold two passports?
- Yes. A dual citizen can hold a passport from each country they are a citizen of.
- Where do I check my other country's rules?
- With that country's government or embassy. The UK cannot advise on another country's law.
Official sources (GOV.UK)
This page explains dual citizenship and British citizenship and is for study and preparation only. It is general information, not immigration advice, and does not determine your eligibility for settlement or citizenship. For official rules and any updates, rely on GOV.UK; GOV.UK guidance controls if anything here differs.
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