The question can Lebanese have dual citizenship often arises among those with ties to Lebanon looking to live, work, or invest abroad.
While Lebanon does not formally recognize dual nationality, it does not prohibit Lebanese citizens from acquiring a second citizenship.
In practice, many Lebanese nationals hold dual or even multiple nationalities, though certain legal and practical implications may apply, especially when dealing with Lebanese authorities.
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This post explores what dual citizenship means for Lebanese nationals and what to consider before obtaining another passport.
What Does Dual Citizenship Mean?
Dual citizenship, also known as dual nationality, refers to the legal status of being a citizen of two countries at the same time.
In the case of the United States, this means an individual holds US citizenship while also maintaining citizenship in another country.
It’s important to note that not all countries permit dual citizenship, and for those that do, the laws and requirements can differ significantly.
Why Get Second Citizenship?
A significant majority of Lebanese businessmen and high-net-worth individuals are actively seeking a second nationality as a safeguard against the ongoing political and financial instability in Lebanon.
This pursuit is largely driven by the desire to protect their families and assets amidst the country’s recent years of economic turmoil and uncertainty.
Benefits of Having Two Passports
There are a lot of advantages of having a second passport. These include:
1. Enhanced Global Mobility
A second passport gives you the freedom to travel without the hassle of visa applications.
Whether it’s a last-minute business trip to Europe or a spontaneous getaway to the Caribbean, you can skip the long visa queues and bureaucratic delays.
For instance, a Saint Kitts and Nevis passport offers visa-free access to over 140 countries, including the UK and the Schengen Zone.
This level of mobility is a game-changer for frequent travelers and international professionals.
2. Expanded Economic Opportunities
Dual citizenship can open up global business and investment opportunities.
It removes barriers that often restrict foreigners from buying property, launching companies, or opening bank accounts.
For example, Maltese citizenship gives you full access to the European Union’s single market, making it easier to expand your business, invest across borders, and take advantage of tax incentives.
A second passport is a powerful tool for financial freedom and global entrepreneurship.
3. Access to Better Healthcare and Education
With dual citizenship, you can access top-tier public services in two countries, especially healthcare and education.
Families benefit from affordable or even free education at world-class institutions and advanced healthcare systems.
Portugal, for instance, offers excellent public healthcare and highly ranked universities.
A second passport ensures your family has more choices and better quality of life.
4. Personal and Financial Security
In times of crisis, whether political instability, economic collapse, or civil unrest, a second passport gives you an exit strategy.
Think of it as an insurance policy that protects not just your physical safety but also your assets and way of life.
When things go south, a second passport helps you move quickly and safely.
5. Cultural Enrichment and Global Perspective
Dual citizenship allows you to experience two cultures, broadening your worldview and enriching your personal life.
It encourages language learning, deeper cultural understanding, and a more global mindset.
For children, this often includes access to lower tuition fees or even free education in top universities abroad.
Is Lebanon a Strong Passport?
No. Lebanon’s passport offers limited global access, granting visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to just 44 countries, which ranks the Lebanese passport 91st in the world in 2025.
This limitation is a key factor driving many Lebanese nationals to actively seek second citizenship and passports from countries like Antigua and Barbuda.
Additionally, many are pursuing segunda residencia opportunities in Europe to enhance their mobility and access to more global markets and benefits.
Given the numerous benefits of holding a second passport, it’s no surprise that demand for dual citizenship is growing worldwide.
For Lebanese nationals in particular, the appeal is even more pronounced due to the limitations of their current travel document.
What is the Nationality Law in Lebanon?
Según la Law Library of Congress, Lebanon permits dual nationality, allowing Lebanese citizens to acquire a foreign nationality without automatically losing their Lebanese citizenship.
Interestingly, Lebanese law addresses dual nationality within the context of losing citizenship.
According to Article 8 of the Lebanese Nationality Law, reaffirmed in Article 1 of the Legislative Decree dated January 31, 1946, a Lebanese citizen does not automatically lose their nationality upon acquiring a second citizenship.
Instead, loss of Lebanese nationality only occurs if the individual formally requests it and obtains permission through a presidential decree.
This means that simply becoming a citizen of another country does not result in the loss of Lebanese nationality.
The individual must go through an official process, and even then, the Lebanese government reserves the right to revoke that decision through an order by the Council of Ministers.
However, it’s important to note that while Lebanon allows dual citizenship, the other country involved must also permit it.
Some countries like China, Japan, India and Austria have restrictions on dual nationality, so it’s essential to verify the laws of the other country before acquiring its citizenship.
Dual citizenship in Lebanon
Lebanese authorities consider dual nationals as full Lebanese citizens.
As a result, when in Lebanon, individuals with dual citizenship are subject to all Lebanese laws and obligations, regardless of their second nationality.
For instance, American citizens who also hold Lebanese citizenship and travel with Lebanese documents will be regarded solely as Lebanese nationals by Lebanese security authorities.
How to Get Second Passport as A Lebanese
1. Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
This is the fastest and most direct route for Lebanese nationals looking to obtain a second passport.
Several countries offer citizenship in exchange for a significant financial contribution to the country’s economy.
Popular CBI Programs for Lebanese Citizens:
- Antigua y Barbuda
- Dominica
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- Granada
- Santa Lucía
- Vanuatu
Requirements:
- A one-time donation (usually starting from $100,000), or
- Investment in government-approved real estate or businesses
- Clean criminal record
- Due diligence checks
Time frame: Typically up to 6 months.
2. Ancestry or Descent
If you have parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents from certain countries (like Italy, Ireland, Armenia, or France), you may qualify for citizenship by descent.
Benefits: Often less expensive than investment routes and allows you to obtain a second passport based on your family history.
Tip: Gather your ancestral documents and consult with a legal expert or embassy to check eligibility.
3. Naturalization (Residency-Based Citizenship)
This involves moving to another country, becoming a resident, and then applying for citizenship after a certain number of years.
Countries with Relatively Easy Naturalization Paths:
- Portugal (5 years residency)
- España (2 years for Latin Americans and Sephardic Jews, 10 years for others)
- Canadá (3 years of physical presence within 5 years)
Requirements:
- Legal residence status
- Language proficiency (depending on the country)
- Cultural integration
- Tax residency and compliance
4. Citizenship Through Marriage
Marrying a citizen of another country can sometimes lead to expedited citizenship, although requirements and timelines vary greatly.
Examples:
- France: 4 years of marriage to a French citizen
- Brazil: Usually, you can become eligible to apply for Brazilian citizenship after four years of permanent residency. However, this requirement is shortened to just one year if you’re married to a Brazilian citizen or have a child who is a Brazilian national.
- Canada/USA: Marriage alone doesn’t grant citizenship, but it may ease the path to residency.
5. Special Naturalization Programs
Some countries offer special provisions for individuals with exceptional contributions, investors, or those with humanitarian ties.
Examples:
- Austria: Exceptional achievement in economics, culture, or sports
- Turkey: Citizenship by property investment (minimum USD 400,000)
Ultimately, Lebanese citizens are allowed to hold more than one nationality, making dual citizenship a viable option.
This can offer greater freedom and flexibility, whether for travel, work, or securing a future abroad.
If you’re exploring whether Lebanese nationals can have dual citizenship, be sure to check both local and foreign regulations to make informed, strategic decisions.
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Adam es un autor reconocido internacionalmente en temas financieros, con más de 830 millones de respuestas en Quora, un libro muy vendido en Amazon y colaborador de Forbes.
