Can you keep your Bulgaria citizenship when you become a U.S. citizen?
Allowed with conditions
Only in some cases
Native-born Bulgarian citizens may keep Bulgarian citizenship when becoming U.S. citizens, but some naturalized citizens must renounce other nationalities.
What the law says
- Bulgaria permits dual citizenship for native-born citizens.
- Dual citizenship is also allowed for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland, countries with a reciprocity agreement with Bulgaria, and spouses of Bulgarian citizens.
- Naturalised citizens who prove Bulgarian origin are also permitted dual citizenship.
- Naturalised citizens not in these groups are required to give up all other nationalities.
- Those required to renounce must provide official proof of release from their previous citizenship within 18 months after the Citizenship Council's approval.
“Bulgaria permits dual citizenship only for native-born citizens”
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 Bulgaria lets you keep yours.
Source: Bulgarian nationality law (Wikipedia, summarized on 2026-11-11). Laws change — confirm with the Bulgaria embassy or consulate before your oath ceremony. This is not legal advice.
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