by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 9:15 AM ET, Thu March 19, 2026
Canadians with dual citizenship are being urged to think twice before travelling without fully understanding the rules that may apply to them abroad.
In a new advisory, Global Affairs Canada is reminding travellers that holding more than one citizenship can come with added responsibilities, and, in some cases, unexpected complications at borders, during their stay or when trying to leave a country.
The message: Don’t assume travel will be straightforward just because you hold a Canadian passport.
More Than Just Paperwork
While dual citizenship can offer flexibility, officials say it also means navigating two sets of laws, which don’t always align.
Some countries require its citizens to enter and exit using that country’s passport, even if they also hold Canadian citizenship. That means travellers may need to carry multiple valid passports and present the correct one depending on where they are.
Failing to do so can lead to delays, additional questioning or even denied entry.
Legal Obligations Don’t Disappear
Another issue is legal responsibility.
Ottawa warns that dual citizens may still be subject to local laws and obligations in their other country of citizenship, including taxes, mandatory military service or administrative requirements.
RELATED: Canadian Travellers With British Citizenship Face New UK Passport Requirement
Those obligations can apply even if the traveller primarily lives in Canada.
A False Sense of Familiarity
The advisory also highlights a less obvious risk: Overconfidence.
Travellers returning to a country where they have citizenship — particularly to visit family — may feel more comfortable and let their guard down. But officials caution that this familiarity can lead to overlooked health and safety risks.
Longer stays, exposure to local food and water, and outdated assumptions about personal immunity can all increase the likelihood of illness or other issues.
Leaving May Not Be Simple
In some destinations, travellers may also need permission to leave.
Certain countries require exit visas or proof that local obligations have been met before allowing departure. Without them, travellers could face delays or be prevented from leaving altogether.
Limited Help From Canada
Perhaps most importantly, Ottawa is warning that consular support is not guaranteed.
Some countries do not recognize dual citizenship and may treat travellers solely as their own nationals. In those cases, Canadian officials may have limited ability (or no ability) to provide assistance if something goes wrong.
That could include situations involving detention, questioning or confiscation of travel documents.
What Travellers Should Do
Global Affairs Canada is advising dual citizens to research entry and exit requirements, understand any legal obligations tied to their other citizenship, and consult official travel advice before departure.
One rule remains non-negotiable: Canadians must use a Canadian passport to return to Canada by air.
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