You do not need to read a ton of literature or learn the terms of the law to understand the concepts of second and dual citizenship. It is all pretty straightforward. We will help you to find out and tell you in simple words how these two concepts differ. After all, from a legal point of view, these are different word combinations.
So, let us deal with this topic thoroughly by referring to experts and the legislation of countries that provide for the issuance of several personal documents.
Differences in concepts between citizenships
In everyday usage, both terms would have the same meaning if we were to speak the language of the common people, because an individual has two passports at once, but they belong to different areas. The main differences lie in the legal meaning of the terms and the rights that the resident has.
The reasons why a person may obtain a second passport that identifies him or her are varied; often they get citizenship by investment.
On the legal side, dual passports are only granted to persons if there is a certain agreement between the states. Both in this situation confirm their data to each other, and the visitor receives the status and the necessary rights. This kind of «double» passport is most often acquired based on special facilities through a program.
The second document can be obtained by anyone, but it does not grant the same rights as a double one. In this case, there is no agreement between the countries that grants the resident the necessary freedoms. In most territories, it is not forbidden to have a second identity card, but in case of legal intervention, it is not valid. Also, in the case of a second document, the person is not protected in any way from double taxation.
In order to decide whether to have a dual or second passport, it is worth taking into account their essential differences. In the first situation, a person has all the necessary rights and responsibilities in both countries. In the second one, he is a citizen of his own state only.
Who supports dual citizenship
There is a whole list of states that have entered into an agreement with each other regarding the granting of dual citizenship. The list of these countries is quite long, with over 60 names. These locations are in Europe, Asia and the Americas.
The desired document identifying you as a person with dual citizenship can thus be obtained automatically in these states under certain conditions:
- a child can be considered a citizen of both countries if his or her parents are already citizens;
- if there is a change in national boundaries;
- if a resident of both countries adopts a child, the latter is also granted dual nationality;
- in the case of naturalization and return to the historical homeland of their nationals.
However, not all republics support this tactic and flatly refuse to provide dual passports. They have their own personal reasons for this. The authorities of the countries where the passport has been issued and granted status are not obliged to report their actions to the neighboring powers.
Problems can start if the legislation of the state, which is basic to the individual, clearly states the degree of responsibility that the citizen must bear for such a step.
In addition, when holding two passports, one should remember to comply with all the laws that are in force in these countries, pay taxes if it is necessary.
Advantages and features of dual citizenship
Holders of two documents have a legally recognizable right of residence, with significantly more pros and advantages than holders of the “second” document
The benefits include the following features:
- Bi-nationals can choose in which country they wish to do their military service and remain registered.
- Taxes are only levied in the country where the resident is located.
- Children born to such persons are automatically citizens of both countries and receive appropriate documentation at birth.
- Persons with dual status are free to travel both within and outside the country, without having to apply for a special permit.
- Entrepreneurs may conduct business in both countries at the same time.
- In case of problems or any questions, a bi-citizen can benefit from assistance from both countries if he is outside of them at that moment.
Getting a guaranteed document is possible if you take advantage of the benefits of dual citizenship, says specialist Evgeniya Morozova. It is much easier for wealthy businessmen and people who have a decent income to obtain a second citizenship, as any country is primarily interested in additional sources of income. However, a bi-national must, however, meet certain list requirements.
Even though a bi-citizen holds a passport of both countries, he is not entitled to benefit from both countries at the same time. For example, one cannot work in both countries at the same time, enjoy the benefits and privileges of residence or receive assistance from the state in more than one field at the same time
