Expert: MRZ - 3/14/2009

Question
I was born in 1965 to Colombian parents living in Cali.  My son was born in Cali in 1984.  I married an American and emigrated permanently to the US in 1989 and have lived here ever since.  I became a US citizen and so did my son.  My son is now a twenty four year old active duty US Marine. My son was adopted by my American husband and we also changed my son's name to a more American sounding name.  My son is in the process of applying for a higher security clearance and his background check questionnaire asked if he is a dual citizen.  I do not know if he is or not.  Could you clarify if he is or isn't a Colombian citizen?

Answer
Hi Nelly,
He is still considered to be a Colombian citizen. The only way to not hold Colombian citizenship would be to renounce it. If you want more specific information please email me at info@colombianpossibilities.com, I prefer the communication to be more direct and private for his sake.
Thanks
Marta