One of the most common questions among those applying for Argentine citizenship is whether they must renounce their original nationality. The answer, from the Argentine side, is clear: no. Argentina admits dual and multiple nationality without restrictions. Argentine naturalization does not require any formal or informal renunciation of a prior nationality.
The real analysis lies on the other side: it depends on what the law of the country of origin establishes. Some countries fully permit it, others prohibit it automatically, and others impose specific restrictions (loss of political rights, restrictions on public office, obligation to notify acquisition of another nationality). We advise clients with a comparative analysis so that the decision is made with complete information.
Art. 75 sec. 22 of the Constitution gives constitutional rank to the American Convention on Human Rights, which recognizes the right to a nationality and rejects statelessness. Law No. 346 on Citizenship contains no provision requiring renunciation of the original nationality upon naturalization as an Argentine. On the contrary, Argentina has concluded dual nationality treaties with several countries — Spain, Italy, Sweden, Norway, among others — regulating the legal effects of the dual link.
The situation varies significantly by country. Typical cases:
Spain, Italy, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Brazil, Mexico, Israel, among others. Acquiring Argentine citizenship does not affect the prior nationality.
Some require notification upon acquiring another nationality or impose limitations on holding public office. Others suspend the exercise of political rights abroad.
China, India, Japan and other Asian countries generally require renouncing the prior nationality when acquiring a new one. Each case requires a specific analysis of the law of the country of origin and the practical effects.
Argentina has concluded specific dual nationality treaties with several countries regulating the practical effects of the dual link: exercise of political rights, military service, consular protection, document recognition, and pension entitlements.
Argentine citizens must enter and exit Argentina using their Argentine passport. Using the passport of origin upon entry may cause administrative complications.
Abroad, before the authorities of the country of origin, the dual national will be treated as a national of that country; Argentina cannot exercise consular protection against the authorities of the other nationality.
Some countries require compliance with obligations (military service, asset disclosure) even from dual nationals permanently residing abroad. It is advisable to verify this before naturalization.
Dual nationality may affect the law applicable to succession and the determination of the competent court. Proper estate planning takes this variable into account.