British Passport for U.S. Citizen

by Kevin
(Boston, MA)

Question: I have a unique question. I am a 36 year old U.S. citizen that was born here in the U.S. and still lives here. My mother was originally from England. She was born there and lived there for 23 years and then she came to the U.S. and has lived here every since.

My question is am I allowed to get a British passport as well? The reason I am asking is because I am thinking about moving to England or Australia and I know that having a British passport makes that process easier because of the EU relationship etc. Thoughts?

Answer: British passport are only issued to British citizens. In order for you to obtain a British passport you would have to apply for and be approved for British citizenship.

While you may have that right, the U.S. Government does not encourage dual nationality as a matter of policy because of the problems it may cause. Claims of other countries on dual national U.S. citizens may conflict with U.S. law, and dual nationality may limit U.S. Government efforts to assist citizens abroad. The country where a dual national is located generally has a stronger claim to that person's allegiance.

However, dual nationals owe allegiance to both the United States and the foreign country. They are required to obey the laws of both countries. Either country has the right to enforce its laws, particularly if the person later travels there.

For more information, click the link below.

British Citizenship for a Person Born to a British Mother

For a complete list of requirements for obtaining a British passport for those born outside the UK on or before January 1, 1983, click the link below.

How to Apply for a British Passport