Dual citizenship refers to the legal status of being a citizen of two countries at the same time, enjoying rights and responsibilities in both nations. For many people with ties to Mexico—whether through heritage, marriage, or long-term residency—becoming a dual citizen is an attractive option.
Since 1998, Mexico officially allows dual nationality, meaning you can keep your original citizenship while becoming a Mexican national. This change opened the door for U.S. citizens, expatriates, and children of Mexican parents born abroad to maintain strong legal and cultural ties with Mexico without giving up their previous nationality.
Common scenarios include:
This guide explains how dual citizenship in Mexico works, the different paths to eligibility, the required documentation, and what U.S. citizens should know before applying.
Yes. Mexico recognizes and permits dual nationality. Before 1998, Mexican citizens who acquired another nationality risked losing their Mexican citizenship. Today, that is no longer the case.
Importantly, you do not have to renounce your previous nationality when becoming a Mexican citizen. This is excellent news for U.S. citizens, Canadians, and other foreign nationals who want the benefits of living and working in Mexico while maintaining ties to their home country.
There are multiple ways to qualify for Mexican citizenship. Here are the main options:
1. By Birth or Descent: If you were born outside Mexico but have at least one Mexican parent, you are entitled to Mexican nationality by descent. This is often the easiest and fastest way to claim citizenship.
Children of Mexican nationals, even if born abroad, can apply for dual nationality at any age. The process usually involves providing proof of your parent’s Mexican nationality and your birth certificate.
2. By Birth in Mexico: Anyone born in Mexico automatically qualifies as a Mexican citizen, regardless of their parents’ nationality. This is known as jus soli (right of the soil).
3. By Naturalization: Foreign nationals can apply for naturalization after living in Mexico for a continuous period of five years as a legal resident.
Exceptions for shorter residency periods apply in special cases, such as contributing to Mexican culture, science, or having refugee status.
4. By Marriage: If you marry a Mexican citizen, you can apply for citizenship after two years of legal residence in Mexico as a spouse. The two-year period must be consecutive, and you must demonstrate a stable marriage and integration into Mexican society.
The exact requirements depend on your eligibility category, but in general, you will need:
Applications are handled by the Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores (SRE), Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. You can start the process at an SRE office in Mexico or a Mexican consulate abroad.
Yes, U.S. law permits dual nationality, so American citizens can hold both U.S. and Mexican citizenship simultaneously. However, there are important considerations:
Dual nationality does not affect your right to live and work in the U.S. or Mexico, but it does impose certain legal obligations in both countries.
Pros
Cons
No. Becoming a Mexican citizen does not cause you to lose U.S. citizenship unless you voluntarily renounce it before a U.S. consular officer and intend to give it up. The U.S. government allows its citizens to hold multiple nationalities.
If you qualify, obtaining dual citizenship in Mexico can be a life-changing decision—offering flexibility, legal security, and a deeper connection to the country. Whether you are reclaiming your heritage, planning retirement, or seeking professional opportunities, the benefits are significant.
However, the process requires careful preparation and accurate documentation. Consider consulting an immigration attorney or advisor to avoid delays or complications.
Need help with your application? Contact us for expert guidance and assistance.
