Losing U.S. citizenship is a serious matter. Those who give up their citizenship lose the rights and privileges that come with being an American. However, in some cases it is possible to regain citizenship after having renounced it.
Can you get U.S. citizenship back after renouncing it?
Yes, it is possible to regain U.S. citizenship after renouncing it, but the process is difficult. You must apply for a visa and permanent residency, live in the U.S. for at least 5 years, pass citizenship tests and interviews, and take the Oath of Allegiance.
Applying for a visa and green card
The first step is obtaining a visa to return to the United States. This requires filing Form DS-160 and attending an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Once back in the U.S., you must apply for lawful permanent residency (a green card). This involves filing Form I-485 and undergoing background checks and interviews with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Meeting residency requirements
After getting a green card, you must live continuously in the U.S. for at least 5 years. During this time, you cannot be absent from the U.S. for more than 1 year. You must be physically present in the country and establish a permanent home and connections in your community.
Passing citizenship tests and interview
Within 90 days of completing the 5-year residency requirement, you must file Form N-400 to apply for naturalization. This application to regain citizenship includes an English and civics test. You will also undergo an extensive interview about your background and qualifications for citizenship.
Taking the Oath of Allegiance
The final step is taking the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony. This recites your loyalty and commitment to the United States. Once sworn in, your U.S. citizenship is restored.
How long does it take to regain U.S. citizenship?
Typically, it takes around 6-10 years to regain citizenship after renouncing it. This includes:
- 1+ years to obtain a visa and green card
- 5 years of continuous residency
- 6+ months to process naturalization application
However, processing times can vary greatly. It depends on your individual situation and background checks.
Can you expedite regaining U.S. citizenship?
There is no way to expedite or speed up the process. The requirements for residency, testing, and interviews are fixed by law. However, you can make sure your application is complete and respond promptly to any requests to help avoid delays.
Why would someone renounce U.S. citizenship?
There are a few reasons why individuals might renounce their U.S. citizenship:
- To avoid U.S. taxes – The U.S. taxes citizens and green card holders worldwide on all income. Renouncing can reduce tax burdens.
- Dual citizenship issues – Some countries require you to renounce other citizenships when naturalizing. This forces people to choose.
- Privacy reasons – U.S. citizens have enhanced reporting requirements to the IRS and Treasury Department.
- Marriage to foreigner – Marrying a foreign citizen and living abroad may lead some to renounce ties.
- Disagreement with U.S. policies – A rejection of American policies or politics motivates some.
Can you regain citizenship if you renounced to avoid taxes?
Renouncing citizenship to avoid U.S. taxes makes regaining citizenship more difficult. You must provide evidence that:
- You have been tax compliant for the past 5 years
- Renouncing for tax purposes is not one of your reasons for reapplying
- You are up-to-date on all outstanding tax obligations
Refusing to certify tax compliance can be a barrier to regaining citizenship later on. Any noncompliance must be resolved before reobtaining a visa or green card.
What privileges do you lose when renouncing U.S. citizenship?
Those who renounce citizenship lose many rights and privileges, including:
- Right to vote in U.S. elections
- Ability to sponsor family members for green cards
- Eligibility for a U.S. passport and consular services
- Ability to easily travel to the U.S., unless a visa is obtained
- Right to live and work in the United States
- Ability to hold public office and civil service jobs
- Access to certain benefits like Medicaid and Social Security
Renouncing cuts ties that are difficult and time-consuming to restore. Former citizens must rebuild connections and meet all visa and residency requirements.
Conclusion
Regaining U.S. citizenship after renouncing it is possible but challenging. It requires an extended period of living in the U.S., undergoing background checks, passing tests, and proving one’s worthiness to naturalize. Renouncing citizenship is a weighty choice with lasting consequences. However, for those committed to restoring their American allegiance, the path remains open in most cases.