AboutDavid Chanter Expertise I have a MA in Political Science and have worked or visited every province and territory in Canada. I work for the federal government as a Media Monitoring Officer where I scan everyday all the major newspapers in Canada. I would be pleased to answer questions on: Canadian politics (federal and provincial); Canadian geography; and, life in Canada.
Expert: David Chanter Date: 8/14/2007 Subject: dual citizen?
Question I discovered your site by accident, but found it rather informative. Unfortunately, I couldn't find answers to all of my questions, and am not quite sure where to look. Maybe you could offer some assistance?
I was born in 1968, in Massachusetts, USA. My mother (and family) are all US citizens. My father (deceased 5 years ago) was a Canadian citizen (born/raised in Canada, from Canadian citizens, but I am unsure of his citizenship status at his death). He lived in the USA since shortly before my birth, until his death.
As a child, I was told I was a legal citizen of both countries. I don't recall the sources, but I was later told that if I remained in the USA, I would automatically lose my Canadian citizenship at either age 18 or 23. Throughout my childhood, I visited with Canadian family members often, but haven't been to Canada is roughly 15 years.
My own children are getting older (12-16) and are curious of their Canadian heritage, which has reopened my own curiousity of my own citizenship status. Any help you could offer, would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance,
Answer I am not an expert on dual citizenship. However, the following government publications on dual citizenship should answer your question. Regarding your childrens' interest in Canada, the website canada.gc.ca is an excellent place to start an on-line exploration of their heritage.
