Can you keep your Côte d'Ivoire citizenship when you become a U.S. citizen?
Not allowed
No, in general
Ivorians of origin may lose their Ivorian nationality if they voluntarily acquire another nationality, such as U.S. citizenship.
What the law says
- Ivorian nationals can renounce their nationality pending approval by the state.
- Ivorians of origin may lose their nationality for voluntarily acquiring another nationality.
- Actions indicating allegiance to another country, like voting or serving in public office there, can also cause loss.
- Dual nationality is typically not allowed in Ivory Coast, except for automatic bestowal for married women or for naturalized persons.
- Persons who voluntarily lost their status and wish to repatriate must establish residency and request reinstatement.
“Ivorians of origin may lose their nationality for voluntarily acquiring another nationality”
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 Côte d'Ivoire lets you keep yours.
Source: Ivorian nationality law (Wikipedia, summarized on 2026-11-11). Laws change — confirm with the Côte d'Ivoire embassy or consulate before your oath ceremony. This is not legal advice.
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