With each person’s life improving, the story of nationality and its benefits is of special concern and is extremely necessary. Dual citizenship allows individuals to hold two or more passports and enjoy the benefits and privileges of multiple countries. A common question that arises in this context is: “Does Vietnam Allow Dual Citizenship?” This query reflects the growing interest in understanding the nuances of nationality laws across different nations. Let’s follow VTJ to understand the information and laws about nationality!
Dual citizenship is possible for certain Vietnamese nationals
Does Vietnam Allow Dual Citizenship?
Vietnam’s stance on dual citizenship is nuanced and depends on the individual’s original nationality. Let’s break it down.
For Vietnamese Citizens:
The answer is Yes, dual citizenship is possible for certain Vietnamese nationals. The 2014 Amendment to the Nationality Law introduced provisions allowing specific categories of Vietnamese citizens to hold dual citizenship:
- Those granted special permission by the President of Vietnam
- Individuals reclaiming their Vietnamese citizenship
- Vietnamese citizens residing abroad who have acquired foreign citizenship but wish to retain their Vietnamese nationality
- Adopted children
These exceptions reflect Vietnam’s recognition of its diaspora and the complexities of modern global mobility.
For Foreign Nationals:
The answer is No, foreign nationals seeking Vietnamese citizenship must generally renounce their original citizenship. Article 19 of the 2008 Vietnamese Nationality Law stipulates that foreigners naturalizing as Vietnamese citizens must relinquish their previous nationality.
This policy underscores Vietnam’s preference for singular national allegiance among naturalized citizens, a stance shared by many nations worldwide.
Read more: Tax refund at Vietnam airport: frequently asked questions
Overview of Vietnamese Citizenship Laws
The first information to grasp is about nationality law and Vietnam’s perspective. In 2008, the nationality law was promulgated, adjusting the entry and restoration of Vietnamese nationality. The main idea in this law is that citizens can be granted citizenship through birth, marriage, adoption, naturalization, or restoration.
Foreign citizens and stateless people permanently residing in Vietnam who apply for Vietnamese nationality can be granted Vietnamese nationality according to the 2008 laws. Some typical ideas are:
- Have special meritorious contributions to the cause of building and protecting the Vietnamese Fatherland;
- Benefits the State of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
- Able to ensure life in Vietnam.
- Know enough Vietnamese to integrate into the Vietnamese community
Acquisition of Citizenship Through Birth
Vietnamese citizenship is automatically granted to anyone born within the territory of Vietnam, regardless of the parent’s nationality. Additionally, if one or both parents are Vietnamese citizens, the child is eligible for Vietnamese citizenship, regardless of where they were born. This means that children of Vietnamese citizens who are born abroad are also eligible for Vietnamese citizenship.
Acquisition of Citizenship Through Marriage
Foreigners who marry a Vietnamese citizen may be eligible for Vietnamese citizenship after being married for at least five years and living in Vietnam continuously for three years. This law aims to prevent foreigners from obtaining Vietnamese citizenship solely for the purpose of economic gain or as a cover-up for illegal activities.
Acquisition of Citizenship Through Naturalization
Vietnam allows for the naturalization of foreigners under certain conditions. These include having resided in Vietnam for at least five years, being able to speak Vietnamese, and having a stable income. Applicants must also show evidence of their contributions to the country’s development and integration.
Revocation and Restoration of Citizenship
Vietnamese citizenship can be revoked if an individual has acquired it through fraud or deceit or has committed acts harmful to national security or interests. But they will also have the right to appeal to defend and present evidence for review by Congress. Additionally, those who have lost their Vietnamese citizenship may apply for restoration if they meet certain criteria.
Read more: How to obtain a criminal record certificate in Vietnam?
Vietnam’s Current Stance on Dual Citizenship
Implications of Vietnam’s Dual Citizenship Policy
The Vietnamese government maintains a single nationality policy. To obtain Vietnamese citizenship, applicants must give up their previous citizenship and relinquish their foreign passport.
Implications of Vietnam’s Dual Citizenship Policy
For those seeking to obtain Vietnamese citizenship while maintaining their original nationality, Vietnam’s dual citizenship policy can have significant implications. These include:
- Loss of Rights and Privileges: determines the loss of basic rights of citizens in the old nationality. More specifically, the right to work, the right to own personal property or elections.
- Limited Legal Protections: As dual citizenship is not recognized in Vietnam, those holding it may not receive the same legal protections and rights as Vietnamese citizens. This is extremely important that you should consider.
- Travel Restrictions: In some cases, individuals with dual citizenship may face travel restrictions when entering or leaving Vietnam.
It’s important to note that these implications may vary depending on the individual’s country of origin and their specific circumstances.
Comparison with Other Southeast Asian Countries
For you to have a more general and broader view of the dual nationality perspective in Vietnam, please refer to a few countries below:
Thailand
Citizenship Thailand
Thailand allows for dual citizenship, but only under limited circumstances. Thais who obtain a foreign nationality through birth or marriage may maintain dual citizenship, but they must apply for permission from the Ministry of Interior and meet specific requirements. Additionally, foreigners who become naturalized Thai citizens must renounce their previous nationality, similar to Vietnam’s policy.
Malaysia
Malaysia also recognizes dual citizenship, but it is not widely practiced or encouraged. Those who hold dual citizenship are subject to certain restrictions, such as not being allowed to participate in politics.
Philippines
The Philippines has a more liberal stance on dual citizenship and allows its citizens to hold multiple nationalities. However, those who have acquired foreign citizenship after 2003 are required to register as a dual citizen with the Philippine embassy to retain their Filipino citizenship.
Indonesia
Indonesia does not recognize dual citizenship, and individuals must renounce their previous nationality before obtaining Indonesian citizenship. However, there are exceptions for those marrying Indonesian citizens or those who can prove significant contributions to the country.
In general, you should learn about nationality factors in advance to firmly grasp immigration laws and rights in Vietnam. If necessary, you can turn to experts and lawyers in the industry for advice and support in the simplest and fastest way.
Read more: Vietnam Emergency Visa – Expedited & Urgent Vietnam Visa 2024
FAQs
Can a US citizen get Vietnamese citizenship?
Yes, a US citizen can obtain Vietnamese citizenship through naturalization or marriage to a Vietnamese citizen. You should learn the law or ask lawyers for advice on cases to easily and quickly acquire Vietnamese citizenship. However, they are required to renounce their US citizenship and surrender their passports.
How many passports can you have in Vietnam?
Under Vietnam’s current laws, individuals are only allowed to hold one passport, which must be Vietnamese. This means that if an individual obtains Vietnamese citizenship, they must surrender their previous passport and cannot hold a dual passport.
What countries can a US citizen get dual citizenship?
The US allows its citizens to hold dual citizenship with almost every other country. However, it’s important to note that each country has its own laws and policies surrounding dual citizenship, so it’s essential to research each country’s specific regulations.
What countries cannot have dual citizenship?
There are several countries worldwide that do not allow dual citizenship. Some of these include China, India, Japan, and Singapore. Additionally, many countries in the Middle East do not recognize dual citizenship.
Related Posts
