Legal Question in Immigration Law in Illinois

Re: Citizenship

U.S. citizens are subject to loss of citizenship if they perform certain acts voluntarily and with the intention to relinquish U.S. citizenship. Briefly stated, these acts include:

1. obtaining naturalization in a foreign state;

2. taking an oath, affirmation or other formal declaration to a foreign state or its political subdivisions;

3. entering or serving in the armed forces of a foreign state engaged in hostilities against the U.S. or serving as a commissioned or non-commissioned officer in the armed forces of a foreign state;

4. accepting employment with a foreign government if a) one has the nationality of that foreign state or b) a declaration of allegiance is required in accepting the position;

5. formally renouncing U.S. citizenship before a U.S. consular officer outside the United States;

6. formally renouncing U.S. citizenship within the U.S. (but only "in time of war"); and,

7. conviction for an act of treason.

The acquisition of nationality and citizenship of a foreign country depends on that specific foreign country's laws. It is easy to acquire citizenship in some countries while extremely hard or impossible in others.

If you want to expatriate to Mexico we may be able to help you. If you want to expatriate to some other country you will have to contact an attorney from that specific country.

Good luck!

Re: Citizenship

Having represented persons who have done this, we would strongly recommend that you consult the U.S. Department of State Website (travel.state.gov) about "dual citizenship" first and then speak to a professional who will advise you about the implications of giving-up your U.S. Citizenship that go beyond what may "meet the eye".