Questions about dual citizenship come up frequently in the security clearance process, particularly from individuals who already hold citizenship in another country or are considering applying for it. Some countries even grant it automatically based on birth, heritage, or family ties.
Dual citizenship itself is not a disqualifying factor for holding a security clearance. Earlier clearance practices sometimes required individuals to surrender a foreign passport or formally renounce citizenship, but those policies have largely gone away. Renunciation, especially in certain geopolitical contexts, was often viewed as impractical or even counterproductive from a counterintelligence standpoint.
Today, adjudicators focus on three related areas: allegiance to the United States, foreign influence, and foreign preference. The core requirement is that an individual’s primary allegiance is to the United States. That expectation applies to anyone seeking to work in national security.
The context surrounding dual citizenship matters. Applying for or maintaining citizenship to receive benefits from a foreign government may raise concerns under the foreign preference guideline. In contrast, citizenship connected to heritage, family considerations, or long-term planning—such as retirement or benefits for children—may be viewed more favorably when properly mitigated.
Demonstrating strong ties to the United States is key. This includes professional commitments, financial connections, and a clear explanation for why dual citizenship exists. Clearance decisions are not about eliminating every foreign connection, but about ensuring loyalty and transparency.
Dual citizenship is common across many democratic countries. It is prohibited in places like China and Saudi Arabia, but not in the United States. While there is occasional legislative discussion around restricting dual citizenship, clearance policy does not change quickly.
For now, dual citizenship remains manageable within the clearance process when allegiance to the United States is clear and well documented.
