What are the advantages of Dual Citizenship?

[honneh 0]

What are the advantages of dual citizenship? Will it be helpful if we retire here in the philippines?

[chris4gretchen 1]

What are the advantages of dual citizenship? Will it be helpful if we retire here in the philippines?

dual for who? Dual for the Philippine citizen to have Phils and USA citizenship? yes there are certainly advantages. A US passport will get you into many more countries without a visa or with minimum fuss for a visa, whereas a Philippine passport wont get you anywhere as a tourist. Also you have more rights in the USA as a citizen than a green card holder. A green card can be abandoned, revoked etc.

Dual for the US citizen to get Phils citizenship? not going to happen. It takes an act of the Philippine congress to award citizenship on a foreigner. I think that happened once. they do have a program that you can buy some citizenship rights, but its several hundred thousand dollars, and you still arent really a citizen with the same rights.

Chris

Edited November 30, 2008 by chris4gretchen

[tedjen 0]

A naturalized US Citizen when he/she decides to apply for dual citizenship the advantages that I can see are:

1. She/he can stay in the Philippines longer.

2. She/he can buy properties

Disadvantage:

1. You must pay Philippine tax(es).

[jom 4]

What are the advantages of dual citizenship? Will it be helpful if we retire here in the philippines?

dual for who? Dual for the Philippine citizen to have Phils and USA citizenship? yes there are certainly advantages. A US passport will get you into many more countries without a visa or with minimum fuss for a visa, whereas a Philippine passport wont get you anywhere as a tourist. Also you have more rights in the USA as a citizen than a green card holder. A green card can be abandoned, revoked etc.

Dual for the US citizen to get Phils citizenship? not going to happen. It takes an act of the Philippine congress to award citizenship on a foreigner. I think that happened once. they do have a program that you can buy some citizenship rights, but its several hundred thousand dollars, and you still arent really a citizen with the same rights.

Chris

A Philippine passport DOES get you in some countries as a tourist. I for one has gone to Thailand and Hongkong without obtaining a pre-departure visa and was granted a 14 day tourist visa upon entry.

Dual citizenship for a Filipino is very beneficial as stated by many here but I would not let my husband give up his US citizenship for obvious reasons.

[honneh 0]

I am a filipino and I am planning to apply for a dual citizenship because my husband (American Citizen) plans to retire here in PI. Will my dual citizenship helpful to me when we retire here?

[tedjen 0]

I am a filipino and I am planning to apply for a dual citizenship because my husband (American Citizen) plans to retire here in PI. Will my dual citizenship helpful to me when we retire here?

In getting a property, YES it will help you both... But I believe you can still buy property even if you are not a Filipino Citizen. I just don't understand why it says that one of the "advantages" of dual citizenship is it.

Edited November 30, 2008 by tedjen

[iahmjpinoy 6]

I am a filipino and I am planning to apply for a dual citizenship because my husband (American Citizen) plans to retire here in PI. Will my dual citizenship helpful to me when we retire here?

In getting a property, YES it will help you both... But I believe you can still buy property even if you are not a Filipino Citizen. I just don't understand why it says that one of the "advantages" of dual citizenship is it.

I myself have been contemplating applying for my dual citizenship as well. From the Phil gov website, which is geared toward former Phil citizens trying to get their citizenship back, but I higlighted the section about foriegn spouses aquiring citizenship:

Frequently Asked Questions

Dual Citizenship:

With President Arroyo's signing of the Dual Citizenship bill, Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003 (Republic Act No. 9225), Filipinos the world over can once again re-acquire their Philippine citizenship.

Check out the Implementing Rules and Regulations for R.A. 9225

Download Application Form for Citizenship Retention and Re-Acquisition (under R.A 9225) | Checklist of Requirements | Oath of Allegiance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Republic Act No. 9225?

Republic Act No. 9225 is an Act making the citizenship of Filipinos who acquire foreign citizenship permanent, amending for the purpose Commonwealth Act No. 63.

RA 9225, which took effect on 17 September 2003, declares that former natural-born Filipino citizens who acquired foreign citizenship through naturalization are deemed not to have lost their Philippine citizenship under conditions provided in the Act.

There former Filipinos can re-acquire/retain their Philippine citizenship by taking the oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines.

Who is a natural-born Filipino citizen?

Under the Philippine Constitution, a natural-born citizen is a person born of one or both parents who are Filipino citizens at the time of birth.

Does the law RA 9225 apply to dual citizens?

RA 9225 does not apply to dual citizens, i.e., those who have both Philippine citizenship as well as foreign citizenship not acquired through naturalization.

A child born of parents who are both Filipino citizens (at the time of birth) in a country that adheres to the jus soli principle (e.g., the United States) is a dual citizen. The child, who is a natural-born Filipino because the Philippines adheres to the jus sanginis principle, is also entitled to apply for a US passport.

Jus soli (right of soil) is the legal principle that a person's nationality at birth is determined by the place of birth (i.e., the territory of a given state).

Jus sanguinis (right of blood) is the legal principle that, at birth, an individual acquires the nationality of his/her natural parent/s.

A child born of one parent who is a Filipino citizen (at the time of birth) and of one foreign parent (e.g., Australian) whose country adheres to the jus sanguinis principle is a dual citizen and is entitled to apply for both Philippine and Australian passports.

A child born of one parent who is a Filipino citizen (at the time of birth) and of one foreign parent (e.g, Australian) whose country adheres to the jus sanguinis principle in a country that adheres to the jus soli principle (e.g., US) would be entitled to apply for Philippine, Australian and US passports.

How do I prove that I am a natural-born Filipino?

A former natural-born citizen, who was born in the Philippines, shall submit the NSO-authenticated copy of his or her birth certificate.

A former natural-born citizen, who was born abroad, shall present a copy of the Report of Birth issued by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate and, in applicable cases, the original copy of the Birth Certificate by competent foreign authorities.

What is the procedure in applying and what documents are required in order to apply?

Applicant shall present a copy of his/her Birth Certificate issued or duly-authenticated by the National Statistics Office (NSO) in Manila.

(Note: Applicants can request for an authenticated birth certificate from the National Statistics Office on-line through the following website: www.ecensus.com.ph)

In case of no records found, applicant must present a Certificate of Non-Availability of Birth Record from the NSO and other secondary documentary proof of being a former natural-born Filipino citizen (e.g. old Philippine passport, baptismal certificate, marriage certificate of applicant’s parents)

Applicant accomplishes form entitled “Petition for Dual Citizenship and Issuance of Identification Certificate (IC) pursuant to RA 9225” and attaches three (3) 2”x2” photographs showing the front, left side and right side views of the applicant.

Applicant submits duly-accomplished petition to the Philippine Consulate / Embassy together with the photos, birth certificate and a valid ID.

(Note: Applicants who are married and who wish to use their married names must submit a copy of their marriage certificate).

Applicant pays a processing fee of US$ 50.00 and is assigned a schedule for his/her oath of allegiance before a consular officer. Applicant takes his/her oath.

Applicant is given the original copy of his notarized oath of allegiance together with an Order of Approval issued by the Philippine Consulate General.

The Philippine Consulate General forwards to the Bureau of Immigration in Manila the petition, oath, order of approval, and other supporting documents for issuance of an Identification Certificate.

The Bureau of Immigration issues an Identification Certificate (IC) and forwards it to the applicant through the Philippine Consulate General.

What is the implementing agency of RA 9225?

Administrative Order No. 91, Section 1 designates the Bureau of Immigration (BI), in consultation with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of the Civil Registrar-General of the National Statistics Office (NSO), as the implementing agency of RA 9225

Where do I apply for re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship if I am in the Philippines?

A former natural-born Filipino citizen who is already in the Philippines and registered in the Bureau of Immigration shall file a petition under oath to the Commissioner of Immigration for the cancellation of the Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) and issuance of an Identification Certificate (IC) as the case may be, under RA 9225.

A former natural-born citizen who is already in the Philippines but has not registered with the BI within 60 days from date of arrival shall file a petition under oath to the Commissioner of Immigration for the issuance of an IC under RA 9225.

Where do I apply for re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship if I am overseas?

A former natural-born citizen who is abroad but is a BI-registered alien shall file a petition under oath to the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate for evaluation. Thereafter, the Embassy or Consulate shall forward the entire records to the Commissioner of Immigration for the cancellation of the ACR and issuance of an IC under RA 9225.

A former natural-born citizen who is abroad and is not a BI-registered alien shall file a petition under oath to the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate for the issuance of an IC under RA 9225.

What is the Oath of Allegiance?

The Oath of Allegiance is the final act that confers Philippine citizenship. It reads as follows:

"I,________________, solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines and obey the laws and local orders promulgated by the duly constituted authorities of the Philippines, and I hereby declare that I recognise and accept the supreme authority of the Philippines and will maintain true faith and allegiance thereto, and that I impose this obligation upon myself voluntarily without mental reservation or purpose of evasion."

Can the conferment of Philippine citizenship be revoked?

The conferment of Philippine citizenship under the IRR shall no longer be subject to the affirmation by the Secretary of Justice. However, Philippine citizenship may be revoked by competent authority upon a substantive finding of fraud, misrepresentation or concealment on the part of the applicant.

Can my foreign spouse also become a Filipino citizen under RA 9225?

No, the law does not apply to the foreign spouse. He/she has the following option if he/she wishes to reside permanently in the Philippines: (a) apply for naturalization; (B) apply for a permanent resident visa.

Can my children (minor or aged 18 years old or over) also acquire Philippine citizenship under RA 9225?

According to Section 4 of RA 9225 (Derivative Citizenship), the unmarried child, whether legitimate, illegitimate or adopted, below eighteen (18) years of age, of those who re-acquire Philippine citizenship under this Act shall be deemed citizens of the Philippines.

A married child, although a minor, cannot therefore be included in the petition of his/her parent.

Children 18 years old and over do not qualify to acquire Philippine citizenship under RA 9225. They have the same options that are open to the foreign spouse.

What is the procedure for derivative acquisition of Philippine citizenship?

The petition under oath has the option to list the names and details of any minor, unmarried children. The applicant should include a copy of the Report of Birth and the original copy of Record of Birth for each minor child.

The Embassy will clarify from Bureau of Immigration the exact procedure in case of the minor children and whether the BI will issue to them a Certificate of Identification.

After I have re-acquired Philippine citizenship, can I apply for a Philippine passport?

Yes, and so can the minor children who are deemed to have acquired Philippine citizenship under RA 9225. You would need to comply with the requirements for first-time passport applicants.

What rights and privileges will dual citizens enjoy?

Those who retain or reacquire their Philippine Citizenship under RA 9225 shall enjoy full civil and political rights and be subject to all attendant liabilities and responsibilities under existing laws of the Philippines and the following conditions:

Those intending to exercise their right of suffrage must meet the requirements under Section 1, Article V of the Constitution, Republic Act No. 9189, otherwise known as “The Overseas Absentee Voting Act 0f 2003” and other existing laws.

Under the Act, the right to vote or be elected or appointed to any public office in the Philippines cannot be exercised by, or extended to, those who are candidates for or are occupying any public office in the country of which they are naturalized citizens and/or those who are in active service as commissioned or non-commissioned officers in the armed forces of the country which they are naturalized citizens.

Those seeking elective public office in the Philippines shall meet the qualifications for holding such public office as required by the Constitution and existing laws and, at the time of filing of the certificate of candidacy, make a personal and sworn renunciation of any and all foreign citizenship before any public officer authorized to administer an oath.

Those appointed to any public office shall subscribe and swear to an oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines and its duly constituted authorities prior to their assumption of office; provided, that they renounce their oath of allegiance to the country where they took that oath.

Can I now acquire land and other properties or engage in business?

As provided for under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, a Filipino citizen is entitled to purchase land and other properties and engage in business. There is no limit in terms of area or size of land or real property he/she could acquire/purchase under his/her name. This right would now apply to former natural-born Filipinos who have re-acquired Philippine citizenship under RA 9225.

Can I now reside in the Philippines without having to apply for entry visa?

Former natural born Filipinos who have re-acquired Philippine citizenship may now reside in the Philippines continuously without having to apply for entry visa. If the foreign spouse and/or child wish to also reside permanently in the Philippines, they may opt to apply for naturalization as a Filipino citizen or apply for a permanent resident visa.

If he/she does not wish to reside permanent in the Philippines, he/she could visit the country as a Balikbayan (refers to a Filipino citizen who is out of the country continuously for at least one year). The foreign spouse or child may enter the country and stay for up to a year visa-free provided the spouse or child is accompanying or traveling with the Balikbayan when the Balikbayan goes home to the Philippines.

As a dual citizen, how long can I stay in the Philippines?

Having reacquired your citizenship, you can stay in the Philippines for as long as you want without having to pay an immigration fees. You can even choose to retire or permanently settle back in the Philippines. As a Filipino citizen, you are subject to duties and other obligations imposed on other ordinary Filipinos, such as paying the necessary community tax residence and other tax liabilities in accordance with the tax laws of the Philippines.

Will I now be required to pay income tax and other taxes? Am I exempt from paying the travel tax?

In accordance with existing laws, income earned in the Philippines is subject to the payment of tax. Filipinos who re-acquire citizenship and opt to reside and work in the Philippines will pay the income tax due at the end of each fiscal year. They are also subject to other obligations and liabilities, such as the community tax and residence tax.

Countries routinely forge bilateral agreements in order that their respective citizens who earn income overseas do not pay income tax twice.

Filipinos who have re-acquired citizenship, as long as they reside permanently overseas, also enjoy the travel tax exemption extended to Filipino citizens permanently residing in other countries, the OFWs and their dependents.

As a dual citizen, am I allowed to practice my profession in the Philippines (e.g. doctor) ?

Under the law, those intending to practice their profession in the Philippines shall apply with the proper authority for a license or permit to engage in such practice.

If I need to get more details on the rules and procedures for the implementation of RA 9225, which government office do I contact in the Philippines?

Under Administrative Order No. 92 Series of 2004 dated 12 January 2004, the Bureau of Immigration has been designated as the government agency in charge of formulating the rules and procedures for the implementation of Republic Act No. 9225. The contact details of Immigration Commissioner Alipio F. Fernandez are as follows: Office of the Commissioner, Bureau of Immigration, Magallanes Drive, Intramuros, Manila, Philippines. Tel. No. (63) 2 527-3265 / Fax No. (63-2) 527-3279

[Rocky_nBullwinkle 6]

I am a filipino and I am planning to apply for a dual citizenship because my husband (American Citizen) plans to retire here in PI. Will my dual citizenship helpful to me when we retire here?

In getting a property, YES it will help you both... But I believe you can still buy property even if you are not a Filipino Citizen. I just don't understand why it says that one of the "advantages" of dual citizenship is it.

I myself have been contemplating applying for my dual citizenship as well. From the Phil gov website, which is geared toward former Phil citizens trying to get their citizenship back, but I higlighted the section about foriegn spouses aquiring citizenship:

Frequently Asked Questions

Dual Citizenship:

With President Arroyo's signing of the Dual Citizenship bill, Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003 (Republic Act No. 9225), Filipinos the world over can once again re-acquire their Philippine citizenship.

Check out the Implementing Rules and Regulations for R.A. 9225

Download Application Form for Citizenship Retention and Re-Acquisition (under R.A 9225) | Checklist of Requirements | Oath of Allegiance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Republic Act No. 9225?

Republic Act No. 9225 is an Act making the citizenship of Filipinos who acquire foreign citizenship permanent, amending for the purpose Commonwealth Act No. 63.

RA 9225, which took effect on 17 September 2003, declares that former natural-born Filipino citizens who acquired foreign citizenship through naturalization are deemed not to have lost their Philippine citizenship under conditions provided in the Act.

There former Filipinos can re-acquire/retain their Philippine citizenship by taking the oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines.

Who is a natural-born Filipino citizen?

Under the Philippine Constitution, a natural-born citizen is a person born of one or both parents who are Filipino citizens at the time of birth.

Does the law RA 9225 apply to dual citizens?

RA 9225 does not apply to dual citizens, i.e., those who have both Philippine citizenship as well as foreign citizenship not acquired through naturalization.

A child born of parents who are both Filipino citizens (at the time of birth) in a country that adheres to the jus soli principle (e.g., the United States) is a dual citizen. The child, who is a natural-born Filipino because the Philippines adheres to the jus sanginis principle, is also entitled to apply for a US passport.

Jus soli (right of soil) is the legal principle that a person's nationality at birth is determined by the place of birth (i.e., the territory of a given state).

Jus sanguinis (right of blood) is the legal principle that, at birth, an individual acquires the nationality of his/her natural parent/s.

A child born of one parent who is a Filipino citizen (at the time of birth) and of one foreign parent (e.g., Australian) whose country adheres to the jus sanguinis principle is a dual citizen and is entitled to apply for both Philippine and Australian passports.

A child born of one parent who is a Filipino citizen (at the time of birth) and of one foreign parent (e.g, Australian) whose country adheres to the jus sanguinis principle in a country that adheres to the jus soli principle (e.g., US) would be entitled to apply for Philippine, Australian and US passports.

How do I prove that I am a natural-born Filipino?

A former natural-born citizen, who was born in the Philippines, shall submit the NSO-authenticated copy of his or her birth certificate.

A former natural-born citizen, who was born abroad, shall present a copy of the Report of Birth issued by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate and, in applicable cases, the original copy of the Birth Certificate by competent foreign authorities.

What is the procedure in applying and what documents are required in order to apply?

Applicant shall present a copy of his/her Birth Certificate issued or duly-authenticated by the National Statistics Office (NSO) in Manila.

(Note: Applicants can request for an authenticated birth certificate from the National Statistics Office on-line through the following website: www.ecensus.com.ph)

In case of no records found, applicant must present a Certificate of Non-Availability of Birth Record from the NSO and other secondary documentary proof of being a former natural-born Filipino citizen (e.g. old Philippine passport, baptismal certificate, marriage certificate of applicant’s parents)

Applicant accomplishes form entitled “Petition for Dual Citizenship and Issuance of Identification Certificate (IC) pursuant to RA 9225” and attaches three (3) 2”x2” photographs showing the front, left side and right side views of the applicant.

Applicant submits duly-accomplished petition to the Philippine Consulate / Embassy together with the photos, birth certificate and a valid ID.

(Note: Applicants who are married and who wish to use their married names must submit a copy of their marriage certificate).

Applicant pays a processing fee of US$ 50.00 and is assigned a schedule for his/her oath of allegiance before a consular officer. Applicant takes his/her oath.

Applicant is given the original copy of his notarized oath of allegiance together with an Order of Approval issued by the Philippine Consulate General.

The Philippine Consulate General forwards to the Bureau of Immigration in Manila the petition, oath, order of approval, and other supporting documents for issuance of an Identification Certificate.

The Bureau of Immigration issues an Identification Certificate (IC) and forwards it to the applicant through the Philippine Consulate General.

What is the implementing agency of RA 9225?

Administrative Order No. 91, Section 1 designates the Bureau of Immigration (BI), in consultation with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of the Civil Registrar-General of the National Statistics Office (NSO), as the implementing agency of RA 9225

Where do I apply for re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship if I am in the Philippines?

A former natural-born Filipino citizen who is already in the Philippines and registered in the Bureau of Immigration shall file a petition under oath to the Commissioner of Immigration for the cancellation of the Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) and issuance of an Identification Certificate (IC) as the case may be, under RA 9225.

A former natural-born citizen who is already in the Philippines but has not registered with the BI within 60 days from date of arrival shall file a petition under oath to the Commissioner of Immigration for the issuance of an IC under RA 9225.

Where do I apply for re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship if I am overseas?

A former natural-born citizen who is abroad but is a BI-registered alien shall file a petition under oath to the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate for evaluation. Thereafter, the Embassy or Consulate shall forward the entire records to the Commissioner of Immigration for the cancellation of the ACR and issuance of an IC under RA 9225.

A former natural-born citizen who is abroad and is not a BI-registered alien shall file a petition under oath to the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate for the issuance of an IC under RA 9225.

What is the Oath of Allegiance?

The Oath of Allegiance is the final act that confers Philippine citizenship. It reads as follows:

"I,________________, solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines and obey the laws and local orders promulgated by the duly constituted authorities of the Philippines, and I hereby declare that I recognise and accept the supreme authority of the Philippines and will maintain true faith and allegiance thereto, and that I impose this obligation upon myself voluntarily without mental reservation or purpose of evasion."

Can the conferment of Philippine citizenship be revoked?

The conferment of Philippine citizenship under the IRR shall no longer be subject to the affirmation by the Secretary of Justice. However, Philippine citizenship may be revoked by competent authority upon a substantive finding of fraud, misrepresentation or concealment on the part of the applicant.

Can my foreign spouse also become a Filipino citizen under RA 9225?

No, the law does not apply to the foreign spouse. He/she has the following option if he/she wishes to reside permanently in the Philippines: (a) apply for naturalization; (B) apply for a permanent resident visa.

Can my children (minor or aged 18 years old or over) also acquire Philippine citizenship under RA 9225?

According to Section 4 of RA 9225 (Derivative Citizenship), the unmarried child, whether legitimate, illegitimate or adopted, below eighteen (18) years of age, of those who re-acquire Philippine citizenship under this Act shall be deemed citizens of the Philippines.

A married child, although a minor, cannot therefore be included in the petition of his/her parent.

Children 18 years old and over do not qualify to acquire Philippine citizenship under RA 9225. They have the same options that are open to the foreign spouse.

What is the procedure for derivative acquisition of Philippine citizenship?

The petition under oath has the option to list the names and details of any minor, unmarried children. The applicant should include a copy of the Report of Birth and the original copy of Record of Birth for each minor child.

The Embassy will clarify from Bureau of Immigration the exact procedure in case of the minor children and whether the BI will issue to them a Certificate of Identification.

After I have re-acquired Philippine citizenship, can I apply for a Philippine passport?

Yes, and so can the minor children who are deemed to have acquired Philippine citizenship under RA 9225. You would need to comply with the requirements for first-time passport applicants.

What rights and privileges will dual citizens enjoy?

Those who retain or reacquire their Philippine Citizenship under RA 9225 shall enjoy full civil and political rights and be subject to all attendant liabilities and responsibilities under existing laws of the Philippines and the following conditions:

Those intending to exercise their right of suffrage must meet the requirements under Section 1, Article V of the Constitution, Republic Act No. 9189, otherwise known as “The Overseas Absentee Voting Act 0f 2003” and other existing laws.

Under the Act, the right to vote or be elected or appointed to any public office in the Philippines cannot be exercised by, or extended to, those who are candidates for or are occupying any public office in the country of which they are naturalized citizens and/or those who are in active service as commissioned or non-commissioned officers in the armed forces of the country which they are naturalized citizens.

Those seeking elective public office in the Philippines shall meet the qualifications for holding such public office as required by the Constitution and existing laws and, at the time of filing of the certificate of candidacy, make a personal and sworn renunciation of any and all foreign citizenship before any public officer authorized to administer an oath.

Those appointed to any public office shall subscribe and swear to an oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines and its duly constituted authorities prior to their assumption of office; provided, that they renounce their oath of allegiance to the country where they took that oath.

Can I now acquire land and other properties or engage in business?

As provided for under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, a Filipino citizen is entitled to purchase land and other properties and engage in business. There is no limit in terms of area or size of land or real property he/she could acquire/purchase under his/her name. This right would now apply to former natural-born Filipinos who have re-acquired Philippine citizenship under RA 9225.

Can I now reside in the Philippines without having to apply for entry visa?

Former natural born Filipinos who have re-acquired Philippine citizenship may now reside in the Philippines continuously without having to apply for entry visa. If the foreign spouse and/or child wish to also reside permanently in the Philippines, they may opt to apply for naturalization as a Filipino citizen or apply for a permanent resident visa.

If he/she does not wish to reside permanent in the Philippines, he/she could visit the country as a Balikbayan (refers to a Filipino citizen who is out of the country continuously for at least one year). The foreign spouse or child may enter the country and stay for up to a year visa-free provided the spouse or child is accompanying or traveling with the Balikbayan when the Balikbayan goes home to the Philippines.

As a dual citizen, how long can I stay in the Philippines?

Having reacquired your citizenship, you can stay in the Philippines for as long as you want without having to pay an immigration fees. You can even choose to retire or permanently settle back in the Philippines. As a Filipino citizen, you are subject to duties and other obligations imposed on other ordinary Filipinos, such as paying the necessary community tax residence and other tax liabilities in accordance with the tax laws of the Philippines.

Will I now be required to pay income tax and other taxes? Am I exempt from paying the travel tax?

In accordance with existing laws, income earned in the Philippines is subject to the payment of tax. Filipinos who re-acquire citizenship and opt to reside and work in the Philippines will pay the income tax due at the end of each fiscal year. They are also subject to other obligations and liabilities, such as the community tax and residence tax.

Countries routinely forge bilateral agreements in order that their respective citizens who earn income overseas do not pay income tax twice.

Filipinos who have re-acquired citizenship, as long as they reside permanently overseas, also enjoy the travel tax exemption extended to Filipino citizens permanently residing in other countries, the OFWs and their dependents.

As a dual citizen, am I allowed to practice my profession in the Philippines (e.g. doctor) ?

Under the law, those intending to practice their profession in the Philippines shall apply with the proper authority for a license or permit to engage in such practice.

If I need to get more details on the rules and procedures for the implementation of RA 9225, which government office do I contact in the Philippines?

Under Administrative Order No. 92 Series of 2004 dated 12 January 2004, the Bureau of Immigration has been designated as the government agency in charge of formulating the rules and procedures for the implementation of Republic Act No. 9225. The contact details of Immigration Commissioner Alipio F. Fernandez are as follows: Office of the Commissioner, Bureau of Immigration, Magallanes Drive, Intramuros, Manila, Philippines. Tel. No. (63) 2 527-3265 / Fax No. (63-2) 527-3279

I think it matters on your situation. Having a dual citizenship means you have all the priviledges, and obligations for both Countries, USA and RP, but none of the protection of one against the activites of the other.

If you plan to engage in a profession in both countries, or own property in the Philippines, while you reside in the United States, then you might require a dual citizenship.

If you plan to eventually return permanently to the Philippines, by swearing a simple oath, you can regain your Philippine citizenship when that happens. In the meantime, you still have the protection of the United States, should you go back for a visit, and Philippine history repeats itself.

[iahmjpinoy 6]

I think it matters on your situation. Having a dual citizenship means you have all the priviledges, and obligations for both Countries, USA and RP, but none of the protection of one against the activites of the other.

If you plan to engage in a profession in both countries, or own property in the Philippines, while you reside in the United States, then you might require a dual citizenship.

If you plan to eventually return permanently to the Philippines, by swearing a simple oath, you can regain your Philippine citizenship when that happens. In the meantime, you still have the protection of the United States, should you go back for a visit, and Philippine history repeats itself.

Yep, that's the reason why I haven't jump on it yet.. I want to make sure of all my options and obligations before going for it.... and I know this subject has been debated before, but the grey area is which side do you fall under when things go bad, as you didn't renounce your US Citizenship when you take the oath to gain your Phils citizenship back... hay nakoh, will do some more research when I get a chance..

Back to putting up Christmas lights for me..

Ingats!!

[nickoftime 0]

I am a filipino and I am planning to apply for a dual citizenship because my husband (American Citizen) plans to retire here in PI. Will my dual citizenship helpful to me when we retire here?

I assume that you know that if you would become a US citizen, you need to renounce your Philippine citizenship. That's the reason why you need to apply for re-acquiring your Philippine citizenship without renouncing your US citizenship. It becomes dual because you both become a US and a Philippine citizen. And since you would simply re-acquire your Philippine citizenship, you will be considered to have remained a Filipino with all the rights and duties as a Filipino.

[LonnieNCarmie 0]

What are the advantages of dual citizenship? Will it be helpful if we retire here in the philippines?

Dual citizenship for an U.S. Citizen is not possible in the Philippines for the American Citizen but possible for the Filipino citizen.

In a bad economy here in the States our dollar has started to be more valuable in the Philippines.

Be careful American Citizens cannot own property in the Philippines only the Filipino spouse can own the

property. The only way around this is to have a corporation in the Phils, and put in the property in the name of the corp.

U should consult a reputable attorney before you do this.

[iahmjpinoy 6]

What are the advantages of dual citizenship? Will it be helpful if we retire here in the philippines?

Dual citizenship for an U.S. Citizen is not possible in the Philippines for the American Citizen but possible for the Filipino citizen.

In a bad economy here in the States our dollar has started to be more valuable in the Philippines.

Be careful American Citizens cannot own property in the Philippines only the Filipino spouse can own the

property. The only way around this is to have a corporation in the Phils, and put in the property in the name of the corp.

U should consult a reputable attorney before you do this.

If you were a Filipino Citizen, then got naturalize and became an American/US Citizen, you can get your Filipino citizenship back and have dual-citizenship. As stated in the form:

With President Arroyo's signing of the Dual Citizenship bill, Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003 (Republic Act No. 9225), Filipinos the world over can once again re-acquire their Philippine citizenship.

This law helps the once Filipino Citizens get their citizenship back without losing their current citizenship to what ever country they are a citizen of now(i.e. U.S.A). I don't think this helps you if you're Filipino and never had Filipino citizenship.

What is Republic Act No. 9225?

Republic Act No. 9225 is an Act making the citizenship of Filipinos who acquire foreign citizenship permanent, amending for the purpose Commonwealth Act No. 63.

RA 9225, which took effect on 17 September 2003, declares that former natural-born Filipino citizens who acquired foreign citizenship through naturalization are deemed not to have lost their Philippine citizenship under conditions provided in the Act.

There former Filipinos can re-acquire/retain their Philippine citizenship by taking the oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines.

Who is a natural-born Filipino citizen?

Under the Philippine Constitution, a natural-born citizen is a person born of one or both parents who are Filipino citizens at the time of birth.

Isn't an American, a citizen of the United State of America, regardless of where they came from? I was a natural born Filipino Citizen but became an American/US Citizen by naturalization, so I no longer can own a certain amount of land, do certain business, etc.. unless I get my dual-citizenship back.. I'm an American/US Citizen, but my nationality is Filipino... so, if your Filipino spouse becomes an American Citizen, then she also can't own property as you stated..

[chris4gretchen 1]

Isn't an American, a citizen of the United State of America, regardless of where they came from? I was a natural born Filipino Citizen but became an American/US Citizen by naturalization, so I no longer can own a certain amount of land, do certain business, etc.. unless I get my dual-citizenship back.. I'm an American/US Citizen, but my nationality is Filipino... so, if your Filipino spouse becomes an American Citizen, then she also can't own property as you stated..

Youre confusing two different things. If you are a US citizen who has filipino parents, or became a US citizen and lost your Philippine citizenship etc etc then you can get your Philippine citizenship back because you had it at some point, even if only from your birth status (example, one of your parents are from the Phils, but you were born in the USA where they were at the time. thus you are US citizen and can have Philippine citizenship also).

If you are not born of Filipino parents and you are a US citizen such as myself, who married a filipine citizen, there is no way for me to become a Philippine citizen unless the Philippine Congress acts to declare me one which is extremely rare. Just marrying a Filipino/filipina will not give you any options to attain citizenship in the Philippines, unlike here in the USA. There is a procedure for foreigners to become a citizen. There is no procedure in the Philippines for that.

So if you have Filipino heritage and can prove it , you can regain your citizenship there. If you were born somewhere else and you dont have filipino heritage in you, then you cant be a Philippines citizen. Unless Congress votes to enact and gift you citizenship.

Chris

Edited December 1, 2008 by chris4gretchen

[iahmjpinoy 6]

Isn't an American, a citizen of the United State of America, regardless of where they came from? I was a natural born Filipino Citizen but became an American/US Citizen by naturalization, so I no longer can own a certain amount of land, do certain business, etc.. unless I get my dual-citizenship back.. I'm an American/US Citizen, but my nationality is Filipino... so, if your Filipino spouse becomes an American Citizen, then she also can't own property as you stated..

Youre confusing two different things. If you are a US citizen who has filipino parents, or became a US citizen and lost your Philippine citizenship etc etc then you can get your Philippine citizenship back because you had it at some point, even if only from your birth status (example, one of your parents are from the Phils, but you were born in the USA where they were at the time. thus you are US citizen and can have Philippine citizenship also).

This is true as long as the Filipino parent is still a Filipino Citizen @ the time of birth.. The requirment is that 1 parent still had to be a Filipino citizen at the time of your birth... This law RA9225, is geared towards filipino's who lost their citizenship thru naturalization:

RA 9225, which took effect on 17 September 2003, declares that former natural-born Filipino citizens who acquired foreign citizenship through naturalization are deemed not to have lost their Philippine citizenship under conditions provided in the Act.

If you(non-Filipino nationality) and your wife(filipina nationality) are both US/American citizen @ the time of you childs birth, then he/she cannot get dual citizenship, unless your wife(filipina nationality) applies for dual citizenship and the child is still under 18, can be included and get his/her dual citizenship as well..

According to Section 4 of RA 9225 (Derivative Citizenship), the unmarried child, whether legitimate, illegitimate or adopted, below eighteen (18) years of age, of those who re-acquire Philippine citizenship under this Act shall be deemed citizens of the Philippines.

A married child, although a minor, cannot therefore be included in the petition of his/her parent.

Children 18 years old and over do not qualify to acquire Philippine citizenship under RA 9225. They have the same options that are open to the foreign spouse

If you are not born of Filipino parents and you are a US citizen such as myself, who married a filipine citizen, there is no way for me to become a Philippine citizen unless the Philippine Congress acts to declare me one which is extremely rare. Just marrying a Filipino/filipina will not give you any options to attain citizenship in the Philippines, unlike here in the USA. There is a procedure for foreigners to become a citizen. There is no procedure in the Philippines for that.

So if you have Filipino heritage and can prove it , you can regain your citizenship there. If you were born somewhere else and you dont have filipino heritage in you, then you cant be a Philippines citizen. Unless Congress votes to enact and gift you citizenship.

This two statements above would be false according to the remark I just posted above, even if you are of Filipino decent, if you were never a Filipino citizen under one of the circumstances above, you would have to apply like any other foriegner or have your parent that was a former Filipino citizen apply and include you in the petition if your under 18.. That whole RA9225 has to be fully read to understand how/who can qualify for dual citizenship(Filipino)

Unless I've missed something in that act, please point it out, as it is rather long to go thru, as you stated, your confusing two different things.. Let me clarify what I meant in my previous post: An American is a description of a citizen of the United States of America, regardless of their nationality.

Chris

[chris4gretchen 1]

Was your mother or father a philippine citizen? did they become US citizen? then they are deemed to have not lost their Philippine citizenship. (RA 9225, which took effect on 17 September 2003, declares that former natural-born Filipino citizens who acquired foreign citizenship through naturalization are deemed not to have lost their Philippine citizenship under conditions provided in the Act. )

If yes to the above... then are you born in USA but from Philippine citizen? If yes, then you can apply for Philippine citizenship since you are born of philippine citizens in another country. You dont have to apply as a foreigner. The applying and being under 18 and unmarried is if your parents lost their Philippine citizenship and are not currently Philippine citizens.

i think you should talk to your parents and find out what is their Philippine status. That will give you your status. You can also contact a Philippine Immigration Attorney.

Chris