China, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, North Korea, and Austria are among the countries where holding dual citizenship is explicitly prohibited by law. Foreigners wishing to become citizens of these nations are generally required to give up their original nationality before any application is considered, according to official government sources and international diplomatic guidance.
China: No Recognition of Dual Nationality
China, an East Asian nation with a population exceeding one billion, leads the list. The Chinese government does not recognize dual citizenship, meaning a person cannot simultaneously hold Chinese citizenship and citizenship of another country. On its official website, the government of China explicitly states: "The People's Republic of China does not recognize dual nationality for any Chinese national." This policy applies to both Chinese nationals seeking foreign citizenship and foreigners seeking naturalization in China.
Malaysia and Saudi Arabia: Strict Prohibitions
Malaysia, a Southeast Asian country, also forbids dual citizenship. Unlike the United States, the United Kingdom, and many other nations, an individual cannot obtain Malaysian citizenship while retaining citizenship of their country of origin. This restriction is confirmed on the Malaysian government's website. Similarly, Saudi Arabia, despite its economic wealth and openness to foreign workers, enforces a strict ban on dual citizenship. According to the UK government's official advisory, dual citizenship is not legal in Saudi Arabia, and a foreigner cannot be recognized as a citizen of both Saudi Arabia and another country.
North Korea and Austria: Official Government Stances
North Korea, known for its military strength and located in East Asia, also has laws that forbid dual citizenship. Canada's government confirms this on its official website, stating that dual citizenship is not recognized in North Korea. Austria, a Central European nation, similarly prohibits dual citizenship. The Austrian government openly states on its website: "In general, Austrian citizenship law does not permit dual or multiple citizenship." This policy is clearly communicated to inform foreigners about the country's legal requirements before they apply for naturalization.
These five countries represent a firm stance against dual citizenship, requiring foreigners to renounce their original nationality as a condition for naturalization. The laws are enforced through official government channels and are recognized by international diplomatic sources, including the UK and Canadian governments.
