US Reminds Dual Citizens to Use American Passports for Travel

The United States government has reminded dual nationals that they must use a valid US passport when entering or leaving the country, regardless of whether they also hold a passport from another nation.

The advisory applies to all US citizens with dual nationality, including adults and children, no matter how long they have lived abroad. Officials said a passport issued by another country cannot replace a US passport for travel into or out of the United States. The reminder is particularly relevant for people who usually travel using their second nationality.

The government has also warned US citizens not to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), which is intended for eligible foreign travellers under the Visa Waiver Program. As US citizens are not considered foreign visitors, they are not eligible to use ESTA. 

Any application submitted by an American citizen is likely to be refused or cancelled, which could disrupt travel plans. The advisory comes as international travel continues to increase and more people hold dual nationality through migration, family connections or employment overseas. 

Officials have urged dual nationals to check that their travel documents are in order before travelling, warning that missing or incorrect documentation could lead to delays at airports and border crossings. The reminder is especially important for Americans living overseas, who should ensure that their US passports remain valid. 

Many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay. Travellers with passports close to expiry may be refused entry, even for short visits. The US State Department has advised citizens to renew their passports well before they expire, particularly before busy travel periods when processing times may be longer.

Although dual citizenship provides greater flexibility for international travel, it does not remove the legal requirements attached to US citizenship. The US government has made clear that American citizens must use a valid US passport when travelling into or out of the United States.