Dual citizens must navigate specific requirements when obtaining a passport, as they owe allegiance to both countries and must comply with each nation's laws. For U.S. dual nationals, the process begins with securing a U.S. passport, which is mandatory for entering or exiting the United States, regardless of other citizenships. The application process mirrors that of single-nationality citizens but requires careful attention to documentation—particularly proof of U.S. citizenship—and adherence to both countries' travel regulations. Many dual citizens unknowingly hold this status, so verifying eligibility with both governments is critical before applying.

• U.S. dual nationals must use a U.S. passport to enter or leave the U.S., even if holding another valid passport ^[1][2][8]
• The application process requires Form DS-11 for first-time adult applicants, along with proof of citizenship, photo ID, and fees ^[5][8]
• Some countries prohibit dual citizenship or impose military/service obligations, requiring research before applying ^[2][3]
• Expedited processing is available for emergencies, with options to apply at U.S. embassies/consulates abroad ^[6][9]

How to Obtain a Passport as a Dual Citizen

U.S. Passport Application Process for Dual Citizens

Dual citizens applying for a U.S. passport must follow the same procedural steps as single-nationality applicants, but with added considerations for their second citizenship. The process is standardized through the U.S. Department of State, whether applying domestically or abroad. Key steps include completing Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport), providing original proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, naturalization certificate), presenting a government-issued photo ID, and submitting a passport photo. Fees vary but start at $165 for first-time adult applicants ^[5][8].

For dual citizens born abroad or naturalized, additional documentation may be required:

• Foreign-born applicants must submit a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240) or a Certification of Birth (DS-1350) if claiming citizenship through U.S. citizen parents ^[5].
• Naturalized citizens must provide their Certificate of Naturalization (N-550 or N-570) as proof of citizenship ^[5].
• Expired passports can serve as secondary proof of citizenship if submitted alongside another valid ID (e.g., driver’s license) ^[4][6].

Dual citizens applying from outside the U.S. should contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate, as procedures may differ slightly. For example, embassies often require in-person appointments and may have specific local instructions for document submission ^[6][8]. Processing times typically range from 4–6 weeks for routine service, with expedited options (2–3 weeks) available for an additional $60 fee ^[5][10].

Navigating Dual Citizenship Obligations and Challenges

While the U.S. permits dual citizenship, the second country’s laws may impose restrictions or requirements that affect passport applications. Critical considerations include:

• Entry/Exit Requirements: Some countries mandate use of their passport for entry/exit, even for dual citizens. For example, the Philippines requires Filipino-U.S. dual nationals to use a Philippine passport when entering or leaving the Philippines, in addition to their U.S. passport for U.S. travel ^[4].
• Military Service Obligations: Countries like South Korea, Israel, or Mexico may require dual citizens to fulfill military service or face penalties, including exit bans until compliance ^[2].
• Tax and Legal Compliance: U.S. dual nationals must file U.S. taxes regardless of residency, while the other country may have its own tax obligations ^[2][3].
• Prohibited Dual Citizenship: Nations such as China, India, or Japan do not recognize dual citizenship for adults, potentially requiring renunciation of one nationality upon reaching adulthood ^[3].

To avoid legal complications, dual citizens should:

• Consult both countries’ embassies to confirm passport and travel rules ^[2][3].
• Carry both passports when traveling, using the appropriate one for each country’s borders ^[1][9].
• Check for exit bans or service obligations before applying for passports, as some countries restrict departure until duties (e.g., military service) are fulfilled ^[2].

Emergency and Special Cases

Dual citizens facing urgent travel needs—such as family emergencies—can leverage expedited services or consular assistance. Key options include:

• Expedited Processing: Available for an additional $60 fee, reducing processing time to 2–3 weeks ^[5][10].
• Urgent Travel Appointments: Some U.S. passport agencies offer same-day or next-day passports for life-or-death emergencies with proof (e.g., a doctor’s letter) ^[9].
• Overseas Applications: U.S. embassies/consulates can issue emergency passports (limited validity) for dual citizens abroad ^[6].
• Secondary Passports: Frequent travelers to conflicting regions (e.g., Israel and Arab states) may apply for a second U.S. passport by submitting Form DS-82 and a signed statement justifying the need (e.g., visa restrictions) ^[7].

For dual citizens without a valid U.S. passport, re-entry to the U.S. is still possible but complex:

• Land Border Crossings: Entering via Canada or Mexico may allow U.S. citizens to present alternative IDs (e.g., birth certificate + driver’s license) ^[9].
• Consular Assistance: U.S. embassies can issue emergency travel documents for return trips, though this may involve delays ^[6].