When you have successfully applied to become a British citizen you may not need to give up your present nationality to become a British citizen.

 

However, many countries do not allow dual nationality. If you become a British citizen and are a national of a country which does not allow dual nationality, the authorities of your country may view you as having lost your previous nationality or they may refuse to recognise your new nationality. Before you apply for British citizenship you should check your home country’s laws regarding dual nationality.

 

Under the laws of some countries, a married person automatically has his or her partner's nationality. Children may also have a parent's nationality even if they were born abroad.

 

Under international law, the UK cannot give you diplomatic help if you are in your national country. For example, if you hold both British and Chinese nationality the UK would be unable to give you diplomatic help when you are visiting China.

 

If you are planning to visit your former national country, and you are not sure whether you have lost your old nationality, you should check with the country's consulate or high commission in the UK before you travel. If you have not lost the old nationality and want to give it up, they will be able to tell you what to do.

If you are in the UK and want to speak to someone about dual nationality you can contact the Home Office Nationality Quality and Enquiry Team.