What Is Dual Citizenship?

Dual citizenship is when a person is a citizen of two countries at the same time, which has its pros and cons due to the complexities of the legal status. One frequently cited advantage of dual citizenship is the ability to hold two passports. A potential disadvantage is the possibility of double taxation.

 

Dual Citizenship As A Nigerian.

Any person born in Nigeria before or after the date of independence (1960) whose parents or grandparents belong to an indigenous community or are Nigerian citizens are classified as a Nigerian citizen from birth. 

Such as any person born outside Nigeria to parents who are Nigerian citizens.

A foreign woman marrying a Nigerian citizen and a person of legal age (18 years) residing outside Nigeria was born in Nigeria but with a Nigerian grandparent, may apply for and retain Nigerian citizenship through registration.

An individual who has made or can make a useful contribution to progress and Welfare of Nigeria; that he is of legal age and legally competent; and have resided primarily in Nigeria, you may qualify to apply for a certificate of naturalization.

Dual citizenship is permitted for persons who have a Nigerian parent, under Section 25 of the Nigerian Constitution of 1999.

 

Pros Of Being A Dual Citizen In Nigeria.

Political rights

Dual nationals can fully participate in the political life of any country of which they are nationals.

These include the right to vote and stand as a candidate, as well as the right to donate to political candidates.

Work and travel

Unlike foreigners, a person who has dual citizenship does not need a visa or permit to visit the countries where they hold citizenship and can stay as long as they like. 

They also have the right to seek work in either country, while foreigners have to go through a lengthy process to obtain a work permit. 

They are also exempt from any foreign entrepreneur restrictions.

Social Services

Dual citizens can enjoy the benefits and privileges of all countries of which they are citizens. 

For example, they may be travelling for medical treatment or procedures that are not available in the other country of their citizenship.

You can also get an education at the same price as domestic students.

Two passports

As a dual citizen, you can carry passports from both countries.

A Dual citizens’ passport eliminates the need for long-stay visas and any questioning of the purpose of travel during customs procedures. 

This can be particularly beneficial if you need to visit relatives in both countries, or if you are a student or businessman studying or doing business in both countries.

Ownership

Another benefit of dual citizenship is the ability to own property in both countries.

Some countries restrict land ownership to citizens only.

As a legal citizen of two countries, you can purchase property in either or both of the countries. If you travel frequently between the two countries, this can be especially helpful, as owning a property offers a cheaper way to live in two places.

 

Cultural education

As a dual citizen, you benefit from immersing yourself in the culture of both countries.

Some government officials also like dual citizenship, seeing it as a way to boost the country’s image as a top tourist destination.

Dual citizenship offers people the opportunity to learn about the history of both countries, learn two (or more) languages ​​and experience a different way of life.

 

Cons Of Being A Dual Citizen In Nigeria.

Your Native Country’s Assistance Is Limited

Dual citizens are subject to the laws and regulations of both countries.

Either country has the authority to impose laws on the dual citizen. So, if you have committed a crime or have been accused of one, deciding which country to prosecute in can be difficult.

For example, if you are an original US citizen, and you are sued in Nigeria (country of your second citizenship), the US government may provide limited or no assistance.

 

Complex Citizenship Procedures

Another downside of dual citizenship is that the process might be complicated and time-consuming.

Some dual nationalities may take years to process. It can also be a costly affair. If you’ve already decided on dual citizenship, you should hunt for a reasonably priced immigration lawyer.

A person can obtain Nigerian citizenship as a second citizenship if they obtained their first citizenship by birth.

Therefore, acquisition of Nigerian citizenship through registration or naturalization is conditional on renunciation of citizenship of other countries not acquired by birth.

Dual Obligation and Responsibility.

Dual citizenship implies that you are obligated by the laws of two distinct countries.

Citizens in several countries are required to serve in the military.

If one of your countries mandates it, you may risk losing citizenship in the other.

As a result, you must research the citizenship requirements of the country you intend to use as your second home.

 

Conclusion

If you are considering it, you need to know the benefits and the drawbacks. 

You need to also consider how comfortable you will be in the country you are going to want to move to. It’s a big step and one that needs to be well-thought-out. 

As always, we here at Ehis Travels wish you the best of luck in working through this important decision, and we hope that you will find our guide helpful in your decision-making process.

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