Renouncing or Surrendering U.S. Dual Citizenship for Citizens of Greece

What is the process for renouncing or surrendering dual citizenship between the United States and Greece?

In order to renounce or surrender dual citizenship between the United States and Greece, you must submit a written statement to the Greek Embassy located in the United States. This statement should include a declaration that you are renouncing your Greek citizenship. You must also submit original documents such as your birth certificate, passport, and any other documents that confirm your ties to Greece. The documents will be checked against Greek records and you will be asked to complete any additional paperwork that may be required. Once your documents have been verified and the necessary paperwork has been completed, your Greek citizenship will be officially relinquished.

Are there specific forms or documents that individuals need to complete when renouncing dual citizenship with Greece?

Yes, individuals who wish to renounce their Greek citizenship must submit a formal declaration of renunciation to the Greek Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The specific form to be submitted depends on the country of residence. Generally, it is Form A for EU citizens and Form B for non-EU citizens. In addition to the form, individuals must also provide a valid form of identification, such as a valid passport or national ID card. In some cases, additional documents may be required, such as proof of parentage or marriage certificate.

What are the reasons individuals might consider when deciding to renounce dual citizenship between the United States and Greece?



1. To simplify the paperwork and bureaucracy associated with having two citizenships.
2. To avoid being subject to the laws of both countries.
3. To avoid the potential for double taxation.
4. To avoid potential conflict of interest issues related to politics, trade, or investments in both countries.
5. To simplify international travel and eliminate the need to obtain a visa when traveling between countries.
6. To reduce stress associated with managing two national identities.

Are there legal or financial implications for individuals who choose to renounce dual citizenship with Greece?

Yes, there can be legal and financial implications to renouncing dual citizenship with Greece. For example, individuals who renounce their Greek citizenship may be subject to a one-time taxation of up to 25% of their worldwide assets. Additionally, they may be liable for taxes for any income they received while having dual citizenship. Furthermore, renouncing dual citizenship may affect the individual’s ability to work, travel, and access certain government services in Greece. Lastly, individuals who renounce their dual citizenship may lose certain rights and privileges associated with being a citizen of Greece, such as the right to vote in Greek elections and access to Greek consular services abroad.

How does the renunciation process impact an individual’s rights and responsibilities in both the United States and Greece?

In the United States, renouncing citizenship requires a person to sign an “Oath of Renunciation” in front of a U.S. diplomatic or consular official. Upon approval, the individual is no longer considered a U.S. citizen and is thereby relieved of all rights and privileges associated with U.S. citizenship, including the right to vote, access to consular services overseas, and access to certain federal benefits. The individual also relinquishes any potential claim to U.S. nationality or citizenship in the future.

In Greece, the renunciation process is similar but with some important differences. Individuals must sign a “Declaration of Renunciation” in front of a Greek diplomatic or consular official, after which they are no longer considered Greek citizens and lose all rights and privileges associated with that status, including the right to vote and access to certain benefits. Unlike in the United States, however, individuals renouncing Greek citizenship may still retain the right to be a protected minor or legal ward of the Greek state if they choose to do so. Individuals are also not allowed to return to Greece as non-citizens and must obtain a special visa if they wish to do so.

Are there any fees or costs associated with renouncing dual citizenship, and how are they determined?

Yes, there may be fees or costs associated with renouncing dual citizenship, depending on the country or countries you are a citizen of. Generally, these fees will cover the costs of processing the renunciation paperwork, such as application fees, administrative fees, and the cost of any required documents. The exact amount of the fee and what it covers can vary depending on the country of citizenship. Contact your consular office for more specific information about any applicable fees.

What is the timeline for completing the process of renouncing dual citizenship with Greece from the United States?

The timeline for completing the process of renouncing dual citizenship with Greece from the United States varies. Generally, the process can take anywhere from 6-12 months. The timeline largely depends on how quickly the Greek Consulate processes the application, which can vary depending on their current backlog. Steps in the renunciation process include researching the applicable laws and requirements, submitting an application packet to the Greek Consulate, paying a fee, providing proof of renunciation and completing a follow-up interview with the Greek authorities.

Can individuals renounce dual citizenship for minors, or does the process differ for children?

In most cases, minors cannot renounce their dual citizenship. The process for renouncing dual citizenship does not differ for minors versus adults, but in most cases a minor cannot legally renounce their dual citizenship without the consent of their parent or legal guardian. According to the U.S. Department of State, “Generally, a minor under the age of 18 cannot renounce U.S. citizenship even if both parents consent. In order for a U.S. citizen who is under the age of 18 to renounce his or her citizenship, both parents must appear together in person before a U.S. consular or diplomatic officer and sign an oath or affidavit consenting to the minor’s renunciation.”

How does the act of renouncing dual citizenship affect travel privileges between the United States and Greece?

Renouncing dual citizenship may affect travel privileges between the United States and Greece, depending on the individual’s circumstances. If the individual was previously a citizen of both countries, they may have to obtain a visa to gain entry into the United States or Greece and may be subject to more rigorous immigration screenings than a citizen of either country would be. It is important to note that each country has its own set of regulations and requirements regarding visas and entry permission, so it is important to check with both countries prior to any travel.

Are there any specific requirements or considerations for individuals with financial or property interests in Greece when renouncing dual citizenship?

Yes, there are certain requirements and considerations that individuals with financial or property interests in Greece should be aware of before renouncing dual citizenship. The Greek government requires that individuals renouncing dual citizenship must first settle any outstanding financial obligations in the country, including payment of any taxes owed. Additionally, individuals should check the laws of their country of origin to ensure that they will not be adversely impacted by giving up their Greek citizenship. Finally, individuals should make sure to properly transfer any property that they own in Greece, as it becoming ownerless after renouncing dual citizenship may be considered an illegal act in the country.

Do individuals need to provide reasons for renouncing dual citizenship, and are there circumstances where renunciation might be denied?

Yes, individuals need to provide reasons for renouncing dual citizenship. Generally, the most common reasons for renouncing dual citizenship are to avoid tax liabilities or a military service requirement. Other reasons may include wanting to simplify the process of travelling between countries, transitioning to a new nationality, or avoiding the potential conflicts of interest that can result from having two national allegiances.

In some countries, there may be certain circumstances where the renunciation of dual citizenship is not allowed or is deemed invalid. For example, some countries may not allow an individual to renounce their citizenship if they have been charged with a crime or if they owe taxes to the country. Additionally, some countries may have strict regulations on citizens who wish to renounce their citizenship and it may not be possible in all cases.

How does the renunciation process impact individuals with dual citizenship who are currently residing in the United States?

The renunciation process can impact individuals with dual citizenship who are currently residing in the United States in various ways. Depending on the individual’s circumstances, the process may be time-consuming and costly. It is important to note that renouncing a U.S. citizenship may result in significant tax implications, so it is important to seek professional advice before proceeding with the process. Additionally, depending on the individual’s circumstances, renouncing a U.S. citizenship may also mean losing other benefits or privileges associated with being a U.S. citizen, such as the ability to petition for family members to receive a U.S. visa or the ability to enter or exit the United States without restrictions. It is also important to note that once an individual has completed the renunciation process, they are no longer eligible for protection under U.S. laws or to receive any consular assistance from the U.S. government in their home country or any other foreign countries they may travel to. Finally, if an individual does not have any other citizenship or residency status, they could be subject to deportation from the United States upon completion of the renunciation process.

Can individuals renounce dual citizenship if they have outstanding legal or financial obligations in Greece?

Yes, individuals can renounce dual citizenship even if they have outstanding legal or financial obligations in Greece. However, individuals should be aware that renouncing their Greek citizenship may have legal and financial consequences. Depending on the individual’s circumstances, they may be required to settle any outstanding obligations before they can renounce their Greek citizenship. Additionally, individuals should research their local laws to ensure that they will not be affected by their decision to renounce their dual citizenship.

What steps can individuals take to ensure a smooth transition after renouncing dual citizenship with Greece?

1. Be sure to have all the necessary paperwork in order. You will need to provide your Greek identity card, Greek passport, and proof of citizenship in the other country in order to be accepted as a single nationality.

2. Submit your application for renunciation of your Greek citizenship to the appropriate Greek authorities. This must be done before you can legally give up your Greek citizenship.

3. Once you have received confirmation of your renunciation of Greek citizenship, make sure to notify the relevant authorities in the other country of your new status.

4. Make sure you have a valid passport for the other country to ensure a smooth transition when travelling between countries.

5. Change any documents or accounts with banks and other organizations that may require proof of nationality or residency status.

6. Stay informed about any changes in immigration laws and regulations in both countries to ensure that you are compliant with any new requirements for entry or residence.

How does the renunciation process affect family members or dependents with dual citizenship in the United States and Greece?

The process of renouncing dual citizenship in the United States and Greece can have an impact on family members or dependents who are part of the same family unit. This may be especially true if they are also dual citizens of the two countries.

The United States does not recognize dual citizenship or provide benefits to citizens with dual nationality, so any benefits received in one country would likely not be available in the other. Also, family members or dependents with dual citizenship would have to make a choice which country they will remain a citizen of and be subject to its laws and regulations.

Additionally, if any of the family members or dependents have been using benefits, such as health care, education or social security, from either country they may lose access to those benefits after renouncing their dual citizenship. They would also need to obtain new documents such as a passport and obtain a visa from the other country if they wish to travel there.

What are the potential consequences or benefits for individuals in terms of employment, education, or healthcare after renouncing dual citizenship with Greece?

Employment: If an individual renounces their dual citizenship with Greece, they may no longer be eligible for government jobs and certain employment opportunities within the Greek economy. This could negatively affect their prospects of finding employment in Greece.

Education: An individual who renounces their dual citizenship with Greece may no longer be eligible for any scholarships or financial support from the Greek government for higher education.

Healthcare: Individuals who renounce their dual citizenship with Greece may no longer be eligible to receive free or discounted healthcare services from the Greek government. They would have to purchase private health insurance or pay out-of-pocket for their medical expenses.

Can individuals renounce dual citizenship if they have not yet acquired US citizenship or are in the process of doing so?

Yes, individuals can renounce dual citizenship even if they have not yet acquired US citizenship or are in the process of doing so. The process for renouncing dual citizenship is different depending on the country, but generally involves filing an application with the relevant embassy or consulate. Each country also has its own rules and requirements for renouncing citizenship, so it is important to contact the relevant embassy or consulate to ensure that all necessary steps are taken.

How does renouncing dual citizenship affect the ability to own property or conduct business in Greece?

Renouncing dual citizenship will not have any effect on the ability to own property or conduct business in Greece. However, there are restrictions in place for foreign investors when purchasing property in Greece. For instance, non-EU nationals must obtain special permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before being able to purchase land or real property in the country. Additionally, all foreign investors must hire a lawyer to manage the process and ensure that all of the necessary documents are filed with the appropriate authorities.

Are there any diplomatic or consular implications for individuals who have renounced dual citizenship with Greece?

Yes, there are diplomatic and consular implications for individuals who have renounced dual citizenship with Greece. They may not be eligible for certain diplomatic or consular services, such as the issuance of passports or visas. They may also be barred from entering certain countries that require a Greek passport or proof of citizenship. Individuals with renounced dual citizenship may also be subject to certain restrictions related to travel, banking, property ownership, and other activities within Greece.

What resources or guidance is available for individuals considering or going through the process of renouncing dual citizenship between the United States and Greece?

1. The Greek Embassy in the United States: The Greek Embassy in the United States provides guidance on the process of renouncing dual citizenship between the United States and Greece. The embassy can also provide information on relevant Greek laws and procedures.

2. U.S. Department of State: The U.S. Department of State provides detailed information on renunciation of U.S. citizenship, including relevant procedures and fees.

3. American Citizen Services: American Citizen Services is a U.S. government agency that provides assistance to citizens of the United States who are abroad, including assistance with renunciation of dual citizenship between the United States and Greece.

4. Greek Consulates: Greek consulates located in the United States provide assistance to individuals with renouncing dual citizenship between the United States and Greece. They can provide guidance on relevant Greek laws and procedures, as well as help coordinate any necessary paperwork or documents needed for the process.

5. Lawyer: Speaking to a lawyer with experience in dual citizenship issues can be an invaluable resource for individuals considering or going through the process of renouncing dual citizenship between the United States and Greece. A lawyer can provide personalized advice on relevant laws and procedures, as well as help with any paperwork or documents needed for the process.