Can you keep your Rwanda citizenship when you become a U.S. citizen?
Allowed
Yes, in general
Rwandan citizens who become U.S. citizens keep their Rwandan citizenship, since Rwanda allows dual nationality.
What the law says
- Rwanda has allowed dual nationality in principle since 1993 and in practice since 2003.
- Rwandans may renounce their nationality only by complying with an administrative process.
- Rwandans of origin cannot be deprived of their nationality.
- Naturalized persons can be denaturalized for fraud, misrepresentation, or concealment in a naturalization petition, or for crimes against the state or state security.
“Rwanda has allowed dual nationality in principle from 1993”
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 Rwanda lets you keep yours.
Source: Rwandan nationality law (Wikipedia, summarized on 2026-11-11). Laws change — confirm with the Rwanda embassy or consulate before your oath ceremony. This is not legal advice.
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