U.S. Renunciation

Renouncing US citizenship is a process conducted through a US consulate that involves severing all ties with the United States through an application and oath. The benefits typically entail reducing cross-border tax and reporting burdens, simplifying one’s financial and tax affairs by reducing dual-nationality complexity. In some cases, individuals simply may wish to renounce for political or personal identity reasons.

Once an application is made to the U.S. Consulate, the applicant must appear in person at the U.S. consulate to sign formal documents confirming that the choice is voluntary and informed, as well as to acknowledge that they understand the consequences of this decision and intend to give up U.S. citizenship.

An overhead view of five people standing close together, head-to-head, and embracing and standing on a bluish gray surface.

During this interview they Consular officer will assess whether you understand what you are doing and are acting voluntarily, require a renunciation fee before finalizing the application.

Since the application is taken very seriously, it is important that it be prepared professionally by a qualified U.S. immigration lawyer and that all taxes be filed and updated at the time of the renunciation appointment.

Taking this step does not remove a person’s ability to enter the United States as a Canadian citizen, but they can no longer vote or work in the United States without a work permit. As such it should be undertaken with the utmost of care.