Can I Hold Dual Citizenship in Australia as a Nepali Citizen? A Complete Guide for Nepali Migrants
Many Nepali migrants in Australia often ask a simple but important question: Can I hold dual citizenship in Australia while keeping my Nepali citizenship? The answer is not straightforward because both countries follow different citizenship laws.
In this guide, you will understand how Australian citizenship works, what Nepal’s rules say, and why legal advice becomes important before making any decision.
What Is Dual Citizenship?
Dual citizenship means a person holds citizenship of two countries at the same time. It allows you to enjoy rights such as:
Living and working in both countries
Accessing government services
Traveling with two passports (in some cases)
Owning property and doing business in both countries
However, not all countries allow dual citizenship. This is where confusion starts for Nepali citizens in Australia.
Does Australia Allow Dual Citizenship?
Yes. Australia allows dual citizenship. When you become an Australian citizen, you can still hold citizenship from another country if that country also allows it.
So from Australia’s side:
Australia does NOT force you to renounce your previous citizenship
You can become an Australian citizen through naturalisation
You can keep your foreign passport if your home country permits it
Key Point:
Australia accepts dual citizenship, but it does not control Nepal’s citizenship rules.
Does Nepal Allow Dual Citizenship?
No. Nepal does NOT allow dual citizenship in most cases.
According to Nepal’s citizenship laws:
Nepal does not recognise dual citizenship for adults
If a Nepali citizen acquires foreign citizenship (like Australian citizenship), Nepal generally cancels Nepali citizenship
Nepal does provide a “Non-Resident Nepali (NRN)” identity, but that is NOT citizenship
Quick Comparison Table
What Happens If a Nepali Becomes an Australian Citizen?
If you are a Nepali citizen and you apply for Australian citizenship, here is what usually happens:
You take the Australian citizenship oath
Australia grants you citizenship rights
Nepal may automatically cancel your Nepali citizenship under its law
You may need to surrender your Nepali passport
You can apply for NRN card if eligible
Important Risks You Should Understand
Before applying for Australian citizenship, you should carefully consider these risks:
1. Loss of Nepali Citizenship
You may permanently lose your Nepali citizenship once you become Australian.
2. Property Ownership Issues in Nepal
You may face restrictions in owning or inheriting property in Nepal after losing citizenship.
3. Travel and Identity Changes
You will need to use an Australian passport for travel, which may affect your connection with Nepal.
4. Family and Legal Documentation Issues
Some legal rights in Nepal depend on citizenship status.
Why Legal Advice Is Important in These Cases?
Citizenship decisions are permanent and legally sensitive. Once you make the wrong move, you may not be able to reverse it. Many people face unexpected issues later because they did not fully understand the legal consequences before applying.
That is why proper legal guidance matters before you take any step toward Australian citizenship.
At Emigrate Lawyers can help you:
Understand Your Current Legal Status
They review your visa type, residency pathway, and citizenship eligibility so you clearly understand where you stand today.
Avoid Unintentional Loss of Rights
Many Nepali citizens lose important rights simply because they were not aware of how Nepal’s citizenship laws apply after acquiring Australian citizenship.
Plan Your Migration and Citizenship Path Strategically
They help you decide whether you should remain a permanent resident or proceed to citizenship based on your long-term personal and family goals.
Manage Documentation and Legal Process Correctly
They ensure your application is complete, accurate, and compliant, reducing the risk of delays or refusal.
When Should You Seek Legal Help?
You should speak to a lawyer before making any final decision if:
You are planning to apply for Australian citizenship
You still own property or assets in Nepal
You are unsure about your NRN status or eligibility
You want to understand your long-term legal rights in both countries
You want to avoid making irreversible citizenship decisions
Important Reality Check
Before you proceed, understand this clearly:
Australia allows dual citizenship
Nepal generally does NOT recognise dual citizenship
In most cases, acquiring Australian citizenship means you may lose Nepali citizenship rights
This is not just a formality—it can impact your identity, travel documents, property rights, and long-term connection with Nepal.
That is why many applicants only realise the consequences after it is too late to change the decision.
FAQs
Is Nepal going to allow dual citizenship?
As of now, Nepal does not allow dual citizenship, and there are no confirmed government plans to introduce it. Any change would require an amendment to Nepal’s citizenship laws.
Does Nepal allow dual citizenship with Australia?
No, Nepal does not allow dual citizenship with Australia or any other country. If a Nepali citizen acquires Australian citizenship, they generally lose Nepali citizenship rights.
Who can get NRN citizen in Nepal?
Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) status is available to former Nepali citizens who have acquired foreign citizenship or are of Nepali origin living abroad. It allows limited rights such as investment and long-term stay, but it is not citizenship.
Who is eligible for dual citizenship?
In Nepal, dual citizenship is generally not allowed for any adult citizens under current law. Only specific exceptions may apply in very rare cases defined by government regulations, but they do not include Australian citizenship holders.
Final Thoughts
So, can you hold dual citizenship in Australia as a Nepali citizen?
Australia allows dual citizenship
Nepal does NOT generally allow it
Therefore, in most cases, you cannot legally hold both citizenships at the same time
Before making any decision, carefully evaluate your long-term future, family plans, and legal obligations.
Citizenship is not just a status change—it is a life-changing legal decision.
Get Professional Legal Help Before You Decide
If you are unsure about your citizenship pathway or worried about losing your Nepali rights, it is important to get proper legal advice early.
Contact Emigrate Lawyers to understand your situation clearly and make a safe, informed decision before applying.
The sooner you seek advice, the more options you have. We are here to help!
Reach out to us today through any of the following:
Emigrate Lawyers
Email: info@emigratelawyers.com
WhatsApp: 0458 745 646
Phone: 1300 807 134
Text Us: 0483 959 572
Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and is not legal advice. Migration law changes frequently, and applicants should obtain advice specific to their circumstances before lodging any visa application.
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