Dual Citizenship in Switzerland: Can I Keep My Old Passport?
Switzerland has allowed dual citizenship without restriction since 1 January 1992. If you naturalise, you therefore do not have to give up your previous nationality. Whether you can actually keep it, however, is decided by your country of origin.
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The app is available in German, French, Italian and Romansh. The naturalisation test is held in the local language.
1. What does Swiss law say?
Until 1991, the Citizenship Act required applicants for naturalisation to refrain from doing anything aimed at retaining their previous nationality. With the revision of 23 March 1990, this rule was abolished, and it has no longer applied since 1 January 1992. Since then, anyone who becomes Swiss does not have to renounce their previous nationality.
2. Your country of origin decides
Switzerland does not require you to renounce your nationality, but many states decide for themselves whether their citizens lose their passport when they voluntarily acquire another nationality. Be sure to clarify this with the embassy or consulate of your country of origin before naturalisation. In some countries you have to obtain a permit before you become Swiss, and afterwards it is too late.
Position in common countries of origin (voluntary acquisition of a foreign nationality)
Since 27 June 2024, Germany has generally accepted multiple nationality. A retention permit is no longer necessary. Source
Anyone who acquires a foreign nationality keeps the Italian one (Law No. 91/1992, Art. 11). Source
Another nationality generally has no effect on French nationality. Source
Portuguese nationality ends only if you expressly renounce it. Source
British law does not restrict multiple nationality. Source
Polish nationality is lost only through release with the consent of the President of the Republic. Source
Multiple nationality is permitted and is entered in the civil status register. Source
You automatically lose Austrian citizenship unless retention was applied for and approved before naturalisation. Source
Anyone living abroad who voluntarily acquires another nationality loses Spanish nationality after 3 years, unless they declare within that period that they wish to keep it. Source
In principle, loss is automatic. There are exceptions, for example if you lived in the new country for 5 uninterrupted years before reaching adulthood, or if you take the nationality of your spouse or registered partner. Source
Without previously approved retention, Sri Lankan nationality lapses. Source
China does not recognise dual citizenship. Anyone living abroad who voluntarily takes on a foreign nationality automatically loses Chinese nationality. Source
Only a selection, as of September 2026. The rules may change and often depend on your personal situation. Only the information from the authorities of your country of origin is binding.
3. What does dual citizenship mean in everyday life?
- Voting rights: As a dual citizen, you have the same rights and duties in Switzerland as all other Swiss citizens.
- Military service: Men with a Swiss passport are in principle liable for military service. With Germany, France, Austria and Italy, Switzerland has agreements that provide a choice of the state in which the service is performed. Whether a military service exemption tax is payable depends on the individual case.
- Consular protection: If you are staying in your other home country, Switzerland can generally not intervene diplomatically on your behalf there.
- In Switzerland, for dual citizens, Swiss nationality is legally the decisive one.
4. Our tip before your application
Clarify the question of dual citizenship early, ideally before you submit your naturalisation application. Also allow for any costs in your country of origin for a retention permit, in addition to the Swiss naturalisation fees.
Frequently asked questions
Does Switzerland allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Since 1 January 1992, dual citizenship has been allowed in Switzerland without restriction. When you naturalise, you do not have to give up your previous nationality.
Will I lose my German passport if I become Swiss?
No. Since 27 June 2024, Germany has generally accepted multiple nationality, and a retention permit is no longer necessary.
What do Austrians need to be aware of?
Austria automatically withdraws citizenship if you voluntarily take on a foreign one. This can only be prevented if retention was applied for and approved before naturalisation. Apply for retention before you receive Swiss citizenship. Under the Austrian Citizenship Act it is granted, for example, for services already rendered or still expected in the interest of the Republic, or for a particularly compelling reason in private and family life. Source: oesterreich.gv.at (loss, withdrawal and renunciation of citizenship).
Who decides whether I can keep my old passport?
Your country of origin alone. Switzerland does not require you to renounce it. Enquire at the embassy or consulate of your country of origin before your application.
Official sources
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