Is is possible to keep both American and Japanese nationalities?

Question

I was born in Hawaii but my parents are both Japanese, so I have two nationalities at the moment. I think I heard that I must choose one of them by the age of 22. Is it possible to have US citizenship without abondoning Japanese nationality?

Answer 1

Unfortunately I have heard that we do have to choose a nationality when we are 18 (or 22 like you say).

You shouldn't go based on which you like better like Miss Above stated.

That would be beyond stupid.

Base your decision on where you live, if you want a decent job, government benefits etc. etc.

But I doubt I need to tell you that. =p

Answer 2

Going by your nickname here I'm assuming you are a boy, so you are going to have to choose and the Japanese government will be sending you a letter when the time comes. (the letter went to my brother and someone else I know) However, as to if they actually enforce it, I don't know. I fear that one day a passport may not be renewed, etc. If you want to keep both, it's illegal in Japanese law but you could tell them you are planning to return to Japan soon and will pick them. The American government will also be wanting you to register. American government allows but does not encourage dual citizenship. Strictly it states if you run for office, serve in military, gaining citizenship, etc. for another country then you lose citizenship but again I have not heard of that happening to anyone for sure. You have to decide for yourself which country you want to live in, which citizenship makes most sense for you, how you want to deal with this, etc.

Answer 3

I guess no. Knowing the American government you have to choose whether to be an American citizen or to be a Japanese national. If you are presently residing in the USA, well i guess "por delecadeza", choose to be an American citizen, since you are enjoying the priveleges of the country, if not then choose to be a citizen of Japan...think hundred times maintaining 2 citizenship is expensive at the same time

Answer 4

well yes and no. just chose what you think would be best. (i hate america and love Japan so i would go based on that)