Can an American Citizen Maintain Their Citizenship While Living Full-Time in Another Country?

Yes, an American citizen can indeed maintain their citizenship while living full-time in another country, even if they own property there. However, certain conditions and legal considerations must be understood.

Grounds for Losing Citizenship

Generally, an American citizen can only lose their citizenship under the following circumstances:

Formal renunciation of citizenship Joining a foreign military Taking a government job with a foreign government and swearing allegiance to that government

These actions must be deliberate and for them to be considered, every presumption is made in favor of the citizen’s intention not to renounce their citizenship. Simply owning property abroad does not result in the loss of citizenship, nor does it require renewal or periodic documentation.

Possible Discrimination and Persecution

The concept of maintaining citizenship while living abroad raises questions about the experiences of US citizens in foreign countries. Many face significant challenges, including:

Persecution Discrimination

It's important to recognize that simply because an individual renounces or loses their American citizenship does not empower them to avoid these issues. US citizens abroad are often seen as a form of revenue-generating property for the US government, and this can make them targets for various forms of scrutiny and taxation.

US Citizenship and IRS Obligations

Even American citizens living abroad are considered property of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This means that regardless of their realization of their citizenship status, they are subject to US tax laws and regulations. The US tax code and treaties require US citizens to report their income and assets, which can often lead to increased scrutiny and potential enforcement actions.

For those who own property abroad, the complexities can be even greater. The US tax code is designed to track and penalize property that does not remain within the country. This creates a difficult situation for American expatriates who may face penalties for not maintaining property in a foreign country.

To summarize, while living abroad does not inherently result in the loss of citizenship, American citizens are still required to comply with US tax laws and may face significant challenges due to their status. It's crucial for individuals to understand their rights and obligations when it comes to maintaining their citizenship and navigating the US tax system.

Key Points to Remember:

Formal renunciation or certain government jobs involving allegiance can result in the loss of citizenship. Discrimination and persecution faced by US citizens abroad are real issues. US citizens living abroad are still subject to US tax laws and are considered property of the IRS.

Conclusion

Maintaining US citizenship while living abroad requires a clear understanding of the legal landscape. American citizens should be aware of the potential challenges and obligations they face, particularly regarding tax compliance and personal rights. For more detailed advice, consulting with a legal or tax professional is recommended.