Dual citizenship happens when due to the laws between two countries, a person has two citizenships at the same time. This can either happen due to birth circumstances or through the choice of the person.
The Republic Act 9225 or the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003 enables those who are natural-born Filipinos who have acquired foreign citizenship through the process of naturalization shall be eligible for dual citizenship under the act, and may thus either retain or re-acquire their citizenship in the Philippines.
This allows individuals to enjoy the rights and privileges of citizenship in both countries and engage in various activities with fewer restrictions, including full civil, economic, and political rights as Filipinos.
Who is Eligible for Dual Citizenship?
Only natural-born citizens of the Philippines who have become citizens of another country by reason of naturalization may retain or re-acquire their Philippine citizenship under this Act.
Natural-born Filipinos are:
- Legitimate child born before January 17, 1973: The father was a Filipino citizen at the time of the child’s birth, as indicated in the PSA Birth Certificate. If the father is not Filipino, the child must have formally elected Filipino citizenship upon reaching the age of majority.
- Illegitimate child born before January 17, 1973: The mother was a Filipino citizen at the time of the child’s birth, as indicated in the PSA Birth Certificate.
- Child born on or after January 17, 1973: The father or mother was a Filipino citizen at the time of the child’s birth, as indicated in the PSA Birth Certificate.
Under the principle of derivative citizenship, unmarried children below eighteen (18) years of age, whether legitimate, illegitimate, or adopted, of former Filipino parents who retained/reacquired their Philippine citizenship under this law, may also be deemed Filipino citizens, if they are included in the parent’s application for retention/reacquisition of Philippine citizenship.
Take note that persons who are considered dual citizens at birth, need NOT apply for dual citizenship under Republic Act 9225:
- A child born in the United States on or after 17 January 1973 when either or both parent/s was still a Filipino citizen is considered to be a dual citizen at birth.
- A child born in the Philippines on or after 17 January 1973 with an American parent and a Filipino parent and who was issued a Consular Report of Birth by the U.S. Embassy in Manila is considered to be a dual citizen at birth.
Duran & Duran-Schulze Law Can Help!
Duran & Duran-Schulze Law, which specializes in immigration and citizenship law, is committed to assist you throughout the process of acquiring your dual citizenship.
Expert Guidance and Assistance
With our knowledge and expertise, we ensure that clients receive accurate and reliable guidance to mitigate delays and maximize chances of success.
Documentation and Filing
We can assist you in gathering and authenticating these documents to ensure compliance with Philippine legal standards. We also assist you in filing your application, ensuring accuracy and completeness to avoid unnecessary delays or rejections.
Appeals and Representation
In case of complications or denials, we provide assistance with appeals, advocating your rights and interests every step of the way.
Need further information and assistance in acquiring Dual Citizenship in the Philippines? Talk to our team at Duran & Duran-Schulze Law to know more about the requirements and process. Call us today at (+632) 8478 5826 or +63 917 194 0482, or send an email to info@duranschulze.com for more information.