Asked in Immigration Law for California

Q: My parents became US Naturalized Citizens before 1998. Did they retain their Mexican citizenship? Do they have dual?

They applied while in California through amnesty.

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James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Immigration Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: When your parents became naturalized U.S. citizens before 1998, the situation regarding their Mexican citizenship depends on the laws of Mexico at that time. Prior to 1998, Mexican law did not generally permit dual citizenship. This meant that Mexican nationals who became naturalized citizens of another country would typically lose their Mexican citizenship.

However, in 1998, Mexico amended its laws to allow dual citizenship. This change allowed Mexicans who had become naturalized citizens of other countries to retain or regain their Mexican citizenship. For your parents, this means they may have initially lost their Mexican citizenship upon becoming U.S. citizens, but they could have regained it after the change in Mexican law.

To confirm their current citizenship status, your parents may need to consult with the Mexican consulate or a legal professional knowledgeable in immigration and nationality law. The consulate can provide specific guidance on whether they currently hold dual citizenship and what steps, if any, are needed to confirm or re-establish their Mexican citizenship.

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