Dual citizenship in Canada: can you keep both?

Many permanent residents ask the same question before they apply: “If I become Canadian, do I lose my first citizenship?” The answer has two parts. Canada’s side is simple. The other country’s side is different for every country, and only that country can answer it. This page explains both parts and what to check. It is general information, not legal advice. For the steps of applying, see the citizenship process, step by step.

Canada’s side: multiple citizenship is allowed

Canada allows you to hold more than one citizenship. You can have other citizenships and keep your Canadian citizenship. The Government of Canada says this on its travel page about dual citizenship.

In the oath at the ceremony, you promise to be faithful to the King of Canada, to obey Canada’s laws and to fulfil your duties as a Canadian citizen. You can read about it in our guide to the Oath of Citizenship.

The other country’s side: its law decides

Canada’s rules only control Canadian citizenship. They cannot decide whether you keep the citizenship of your country of birth. Each country has its own nationality law. The Government of Canada notes that other countries may not allow multiple citizenship, and some may even treat it as unlawful. Depending on the country, taking another citizenship may mean you lose the first one, or you may have to take steps with that country’s government.

The Government of Canada also warns that some countries do not recognize your Canadian citizenship at all. In that country, you may be treated only as their citizen, and local authorities may refuse to let Canadian officials help you. Depending on the country, dual citizens may need that country’s passport to enter or leave, may need an exit visa, or may have to register for military service. Exit bans, local taxes and rules on registering children can also apply.

If you are a citizen of China, or another country

We do not summarise any other country’s nationality law on this site, because we could not confirm the details from an official source, and they can change. Before you apply, check the rules yourself with an official source of that country, such as its embassy or consulate in Canada or its government website. Good questions to ask:

• Does my country allow its citizens to hold another citizenship?
• If not, do I lose my citizenship automatically, or do I have to apply or tell the authorities?
• What happens to my passport and other identity documents from that country?
• Can I still enter my country of birth, and with which document?
• Are there effects on property, inheritance, military service or taxes?

Write down the answer and where it came from. Do not rely on chat groups or forums. If your situation is complicated, ask a qualified lawyer in that country.

Travel after you become a Canadian citizen

This part is easy to miss. The Government of Canada says that dual citizens need a valid Canadian passport to return to Canada by air. This applies even if you are only passing through Canada, and even if the country you are leaving asks you to use its passport. In some cases a special authorization may allow travel without a Canadian passport, but do not plan on it.

What this means in practice:

• Do not book flights back to Canada until you have your Canadian passport, unless you have checked the rules for your case.
• If you still use another country’s passport, check that country’s entry and exit rules too.
• Check the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories for each country before you go.

Does dual citizenship affect the test?

No. The test checks what you know about Canada from the study guide Discover Canada. Your other citizenship does not change the questions or the pass mark. Whether you can apply depends on the normal requirements; see Am I eligible?.

Rules can change

Canadian rules and other countries’ rules can change. This page was checked in November 2026. Always confirm with IRCC, the Government of Canada travel pages and the other country’s official sources before you decide.

Ready to work on the part you control? Start with practice test 1.