QUESTION:
I am a U.S. citizen by birth and have worked and resided in the U.S. my entire life. However, I recently discovered that, because my mother was a Canadian citizen, I appear to be eligible for Canadian citizenship under the transitional provision of the Canadian Citizenship Act of 1977, paragraph 5(2)(b) but my application must be made before 14 August 2004.
My general question is whether obtaining dual citizenship offers any advantages and, if it does, whether they outweigh any resulting disadvantages.
I recently retired. My income is in the form of a pension, SRA, interest, and dividends, all from U.S. sources. I am a U.S. resident and, at least for the foreseeable future, intend to remain one. I have a U.S. passport. Beginning in 2006, I plan to spend several years traveling the world with, at most, only infrequent and short return visits to the U.S.
Under these circumstances, what are the advantages and disadvantages, if any, of dual U.S.-Canadian citizenship? What rights and responsibilities will I be giving up or obtaining? In particular: Will it affect my entry and exit into other countries and my status while inside a country? Will it affect the income or other taxes I am obligated to pay?
Regards,
