Philippine Dual Citizenship in the USA 2026
RA 9225 is the most popular consular service among Filipino-Americans. Over 4 million Filipino-Americans are eligible. Re-acquire Philippine citizenship to own property, vote, do business, and retire in the Philippines — all while keeping your US citizenship.
Why Get Dual Citizenship?
Benefits
- Own property: Buy land and real estate in the Philippines
- Vote: Register as overseas voter for PH elections
- Business: Start and own businesses restricted to Filipino citizens
- Practice profession: Practice licensed professions (with appropriate board exam)
- Retire: Retire in the Philippines with full citizen rights
- Philippine passport: Get a PH passport for travel convenience in Asia
US Citizenship Unaffected
US law permits dual nationality. The US Supreme Court has ruled that acquiring another nationality does not automatically revoke US citizenship. You can hold both passports simultaneously.
Important: Use your US passport for entering and leaving the US, and your Philippine passport for entering and leaving the Philippines.
Requirements
- Completed RA 9225 Petition form
- US passport (original + 2 photocopies of data page)
- Old Philippine passport (original + photocopy, if available)
- US naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship (original + photocopy)
- PSA Birth Certificate from the Philippines (original + photocopy)
- Four passport-size photos (white background, 4.5cm x 3.5cm)
- Processing fee: $50
If you cannot locate your old Philippine passport, bring any Philippine government ID or document showing your previous Filipino citizenship.
Application Process
- Book appointment at the nearest embassy or consulate
- Prepare documents — ensure PSA birth certificate is current
- Submit application and pay $50 fee
- Take Oath of Allegiance before a consular officer (must be in person)
- Wait 2-4 months for Manila processing
- Receive Order of Approval and Identification Certificate (IC)
- Apply for Philippine passport using your new dual citizenship status
Where to apply: Embassy DC, or Consulates in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Chicago, Honolulu. Outreach missions also visit other US cities.
FAQ
No. US law permits dual nationality. Re-acquiring Philippine citizenship under RA 9225 does not affect your US citizenship in any way. You can hold both US and Philippine passports.
Yes. Minor children (under 18) of approved RA 9225 applicants automatically derive Philippine citizenship. You need to file a separate application (derivative citizenship) with the child's birth certificate and your approval documents.
Dual citizens who wish to run for elective office in the Philippines must first renounce their foreign citizenship and take a personal and sworn renunciation before the Philippine authorities. Simply having RA 9225 approval is not sufficient for running for office.