Can you keep your Austria citizenship when you become a U.S. citizen?
Not allowed
No, in general
Austrian citizens who voluntarily acquire another citizenship, such as U.S. citizenship, automatically lose their Austrian citizenship unless they obtain permission in advance to retain it.
What the law says
- An Austrian citizen who acquires another citizenship by voluntary action automatically loses Austrian citizenship.
- The exception is where permission to retain Austrian citizenship has been obtained in advance.
- Such permission may be difficult to obtain, as the legislature aims to reduce the number of dual citizenships granted.
- Exceptions are made where it is in the interest of the Republic of Austria to grant this.
“An Austrian citizen who acquires another citizenship by voluntary action automatically loses Austrian citizenship”
What about the U.S. side?
The United States allows dual citizenship. At the oath ceremony you promise to renounce allegiance to other countries, but U.S. law does not make you formally give up your other passport. The question is only whether Austria lets you keep yours.
Source: Austrian nationality law (Wikipedia, summarized on 2026-11-11). Laws change — confirm with the Austria embassy or consulate before your oath ceremony. This is not legal advice.
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