How to Obtain U.S. Dual Citizenship for Citizens from Romania

What is the process for obtaining dual citizenship between the United States and Romania?

In order to obtain dual citizenship between the United States and Romania, an individual must first apply for Romanian citizenship through the country’s Ministry of Justice. This usually requires the applicant to provide evidence of their ancestry or some other familial connection to Romania. The applicant must also submit a valid passport and proof of residence in the country, as well as other documents such as a birth certificate and marriage certificate (if applicable). An interview may also be required.

Once the Romanian Ministry of Justice has approved the application, the individual will become a Romanian citizen and may apply for a dual citizenship status with the United States. To do this, they must submit an application to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) including documentation showing proof of their Romanian citizenship and any other relevant information such as proof of identity and residence. The USCIS will then review the application and determine if dual citizenship is granted.

Are there specific eligibility criteria for individuals seeking dual citizenship with Romania?

Yes, individuals seeking dual citizenship with Romania must meet certain criteria outlined by the Romanian government. The basic criteria include having a valid Romanian passport, being of Romanian origin, having legal residence in Romania, and having a clean criminal record. In addition, individuals must pay an application fee and provide proof of identity and parental documents. They may also need to pass language tests or demonstrate financial resources if applicable.

Do I need to be a US citizen first before applying for dual citizenship with Romania?

No, you do not need to be a US citizen first before applying for dual citizenship with Romania. You can apply for dual citizenship with Romania as long as you meet the eligibility requirements.

What documentation is required for the application process for dual citizenship with Romania?

1. Proof of Romanian ancestry, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate or other relevant documents to prove a family connection.

2. Applicant’s valid passport.

3. Proof of Romanian language proficiency (if applicable).

4. Proof of legal residence in Romania for at least five consecutive years at the time of application.

5. Proof of a clean criminal record in Romania and the home country.

6. An application form, signed and dated by the applicant.

7. Two color photographs of passport size (3 x 4 cm).

8. Payment of applicable fee (including administration costs and consular fees).

How does the naturalization process in the United States align with obtaining dual citizenship with Romania?

The naturalization process in the United States does not directly align with obtaining dual citizenship with Romania. In order to obtain dual citizenship with Romania, an individual must first apply for Romanian citizenship. This can be done through naturalization or other special programs such as ancestry or marriage. Once a person has been granted Romanian citizenship, they may then apply for a Romanian passport and use it to travel to and from the United States. To maintain dual citizenship, individuals must abide by the laws of both countries, including any tax and military obligations.

Are there language requirements for obtaining dual citizenship with Romania if I am already a US citizen?

Yes, there are language requirements for obtaining Romanian citizenship by naturalization if you are already a US citizen. According to the Romanian Ministry of Internal Affairs, applicants must have a basic knowledge of the Romanian language, history, and culture. Applicants must prove they have a basic knowledge of the Romanian language by passing a test administered by the National Institute for Educational Evaluation or by providing evidence that they have studied the Romanian language for at least 6 months in a Romanian school. In addition, all applicants must attend an interview with a Romanian Consular Officer to discuss their knowledge of the Romanian language, history, and culture.

What are the residency requirements for individuals seeking dual citizenship with Romania?

In order to obtain dual citizenship with Romania, individuals must meet the following residence requirements:

1. Have lived in Romania for at least 8 years, or a minimum of 5 years if they have Romanian origins.

2. Submit proof of residence to the Romanian Ministry of Justice.

3. Pay a fee of €100 to the Romanian Ministry of Justice.

4. Pass a Romanian language test.

5. Provide documents proving ancestry (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.).

6. Provide a valid passport or national ID card from the country of origin.

Can individuals born in the United States obtain dual citizenship with Romania without residing there?

Yes, individuals born in the United States can obtain dual citizenship with Romania without residing there. Romanian law permits dual citizenship, and it is possible for any individual to become a Romanian citizen in addition to their existing citizenship. The process for obtaining dual citizenship involves submitting an application to the Romanian consulate in the United States and providing proof of Romanian ancestry. Once the application is approved, the individual will receive a Certificate of Naturalization.

What role does the embassy or consulate of Romania play in the process of obtaining dual citizenship?

The embassy or consulate of Romania plays an important role in the process of obtaining dual citizenship. It is responsible for accepting, reviewing, and approving applications for dual citizenship. The embassy or consulate can provide information and assistance to those applying for dual citizenship, review all necessary documents, and issue a Certificate of Romanian Citizenship upon successful completion of the application process.

Are there any fees associated with applying for dual citizenship with Romania?

Yes, there are fees associated with applying for dual citizenship with Romania. The fee for a Romanian citizenship application is €380. Additionally, the Ministry of Interior may charge additional processing fees.

How long does the process usually take to obtain dual citizenship with Romania once the application is submitted?

The process usually takes between six to twelve months to obtain dual citizenship with Romania once the application is submitted. It may take longer depending on the particular circumstances of each case.

Are there any age restrictions or considerations for minors seeking dual citizenship with Romania?

Yes, there are age restrictions and considerations for minors seeking dual citizenship with Romania. In general, children of Romanian citizens born outside of Romania are eligible for Romanian citizenship, provided that either parent has Romanian citizenship at the time of the child’s birth. However, minors must be at least 18 years old in order to apply for and obtain Romanian citizenship. Additionally, minors under the age of 18 who are born outside of Romania to a parent with dual citizenship must renounce one of their citizenships before reaching the age of majority (18).

Can individuals with dual citizenship in the United States automatically acquire citizenship with Romania through descent or ancestry?

No, individuals with dual citizenship in the United States do not automatically acquire citizenship with Romania through descent or ancestry. To acquire Romanian citizenship, individuals must meet the requirements for naturalization and pass a written test.

Is there a difference in the process for obtaining dual citizenship with Romania for married couples?

No, the process for obtaining dual citizenship with Romania is the same for married couples as it is for individuals. The individual requirements of each applicant must be met and the application must be submitted along with applicable supporting documentation.

What are the potential challenges or obstacles that individuals may encounter when applying for dual citizenship with Romania?

1. Lengthy Processing Times: Depending on your individual situation, the application process for obtaining dual citizenship with Romania can be lengthy and take up to two years or more for completion due to the paperwork and administrative details that must be fulfilled.

2. Evidence of Eligibility: Applicants may be required to submit evidence of Romanian ancestors, such as birth and marriage certificates, as well as other documents that prove their eligibility for dual citizenship. These documents may be difficult to obtain or require payment of fees.

3. Financial Requirements: In some cases, individuals may need to meet financial requirements in order to become eligible for dual citizenship, such as having a certain amount of money in a Romanian bank account.

4. Language Requirements: Romania has Romanian as its official language, and applicants may need to demonstrate proficiency in that language in order to qualify for dual citizenship.

5. Immigration Restrictions: Depending on the country of origin of the individual applying for dual citizenship, there may be immigration restrictions that must be met before they can be approved for dual citizenship with Romania.

Can individuals with dual citizenship with Romania maintain their original citizenship even if they acquire US citizenship?

Yes, individuals with dual citizenship with Romania can maintain their original citizenship even if they acquire US citizenship. According to Romania’s Citizenship Law, dual citizenship is allowed under specific conditions, such as if the individual was born to a Romanian parent outside of Romania, or if the individual has married a Romanian citizen.

How does the process of obtaining dual citizenship with Romania affect individuals who are refugees or asylum seekers in the United States?

The process of obtaining dual citizenship with Romania for refugees or asylum seekers in the United States is complicated and depends on their individual circumstances. Generally, they must first obtain permanent residence status and meet all applicable requirements. Depending on their personal history and country of origin, they may be eligible for a simplified application process or need to provide additional documents. After obtaining permanent residence in Romania, they will then need to apply for Romanian citizenship. The process typically requires submitting an application, providing documents proving identity and date of birth, attending an in-person interview, and paying a fee. Depending on the individual’s circumstances, the application process can take several months to a year before dual citizenship is granted.

Are there any specific requirements for individuals holding dual citizenship with Romania and working or studying in the United States?

Yes, individuals holding dual citizenship with Romania and working or studying in the United States must comply with all applicable immigration laws and regulations. This includes applying for any necessary visa(s) that are required for the individual’s activities in the U.S. In addition, they may be subject to certain tax and reporting requirements as per the laws of the country in which they are currently living and working.

What steps should be taken to ensure compliance with both US and Romania laws during the dual citizenship application process?

1. Research the legal requirements of both countries for dual citizenship. Each country has different criteria for dual citizenship applications, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the relevant laws and regulations.

2. Gather all required documents for the application process. This will depend on the specific requirements of each country, but typically documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, proof of residence, and photographs are required for dual citizenship applications.

3. Submit the application to both governments in accordance with their instructions, and make sure to include all necessary documents.

4. Follow up with both countries to ensure that the application has been processed and that your citizenship has been granted in both countries. This may involve contacting local embassies or consulates for assistance.

5. Be aware of any ongoing obligations or taxes required to maintain dual citizenship status in both countries. This may include filing taxes in both countries or renewing your status periodically.

Are there any recent changes or updates in the procedures for obtaining dual citizenship with Romania for US citizens?

Yes, the procedures for obtaining dual citizenship with Romania for US citizens have recently changed. According to the Romanian Citizenship Law (Law No. 21/1991 on Romanian Citizenship), US citizens who meet certain requirements are eligible to apply for dual citizenship with Romania. Those requirements include having at least one grandparent who was born in Romania, being born in Romania, or having lived in Romania for at least five years prior to application. In addition, applicants must prove they have sufficient Romanian language skills and pass a criminal record check. As of February 2021, the following additional changes have been made to the procedures for obtaining dual citizenship with Romania for US citizens:

1. Applicants must provide proof of their Romanian ancestry when submitting their application. This can include birth or marriage certificates, as well as documents relating to adoption or guardianship.

2. Applicants must also provide proof of residence in Romania during the five year period prior to the application. This can be done by providing documents such as utility bills and rental agreements, as well as evidence of employment or study in Romania.

3. Applicants must also provide proof of sufficient Romanian language skills. This can be done by submitting a certificate from an approved Romanian language school, or by taking a language test administered by a Romanian embassy or consulate.

4. The criminal record check must now be completed in the country where the applicant is applying from, and not in Romania.