Embracing the Modern Reality: The Case for Second Passports and Multiple Identities

 

 

In today’s globalized world, having a second passport and multiple identities is increasingly common and, in many cases, practical.

However, citizenship laws and state perspectives often lag behind these realities.

 

 

Governments tend to view multiple citizenships as disorderly and a threat at worst.

Traditionally, states prefer individuals to be born, raised, work, pay taxes, draw benefits, die within the same jurisdiction, carry a single passport, and hold only one nationality. This expectation extends to unquestioned loyalty and even potential conscription during the conflict.

The Complexity of Modern Citizenship

Life, however, is more complex. Political loyalty is not necessarily exclusive and often overlaps. Consider the example of many Jews who hold dual citizenship in Israel and their home countries, which serves both as a support system and a safety net.

Similarly, Bavarians can simultaneously take pride in being Bavarian, German, and European. Irish citizens have the unique ability to vote in British elections.

The antiquated idea of one-person, one-state citizenship appears increasingly outdated: over 200 million people now live and work outside their birth countries yet still wish to maintain ties, marry, obtain second passports, or invest there.

The Flaws of Political Protectionism

Political protectionism, where states force individuals to choose a single nationality or restrict their right to second passports, is a misguided response. Given the ease of obtaining citizenship today, this approach seems counterproductive.

Citizenship can be acquired through various means, including investment, marriage, or even as an unintended consequence of birth.

Instead of fetishizing passports, a more logical approach would prioritize residence—notably tax residency—as the primary criterion for an individual’s rights and duties. Residency reflects a voluntary decision to live in a country and adhere to its laws, fostering cohesion and commitment.

The world is slowly moving towards this model, though many governments, especially poorly administered ones, resist the trend. Even wealthy democracies like the Netherlands and Germany attempt to curb this shift through various justifications.

Security Concerns and Modern Realities

State security concerns have historically been a significant reason for restrictive citizenship laws.

During times when defence relied on conscription, citizenship was critical. However, modern warfare no longer necessitates large armies of untrained conscripts.

Few countries still practice mandatory military service, and those that do are phasing it out. Citizenship does not guarantee loyalty; some of history’s most notorious traitors were naturalized citizens. Often, the most passionate defenders of a nation are those who have endured great hardships to reach it.

Political and Financial Implications

Governments associate non-citizens with various political and financial issues, such as tax evasion, benefit claims, and adherence to foreign customs.

While these concerns are valid, relying on citizenship as a symbolic power is not the solution. Instead, specific legislation targeting tax evasion, protecting national languages, and prohibiting foreign traditions like forced marriage would be more effective.

The U.S. policy of taxing citizens regardless of where they live is a particularly absurd example of outdated citizenship laws. It creates unnecessary complexity and is a boon for accountants.

In terms of benefits, residence should be the critical factor. Suppose you live in a country and pay taxes. In that case, you should be treated equally to any other resident, potentially even better than a citizen who has lived abroad and not contributed financially.

Voting Rights and Residency

The most challenging aspect of a residency-based system is voting, traditionally tied to citizenship.

However, there is room for negotiation. For instance, France and Italy allow citizens who live permanently overseas, sometimes with dual nationality, to vote in their elections.

This makes sense. Similarly, countries should grant long-term non-citizen residents the right to vote, at least in local elections. European Union citizens already enjoy this right within the EU.

The Benefits of Multiple Citizenships

Viewing multiple citizenships solely in terms of costs and problems is short-sighted.

It also fosters connections between diasporas—typically wealthy and well-connected—and their home nations, often poorer, to benefit both. Multiple citizenships are inevitable and inherently a liberal concept. They should be celebrated rather than restricted.

Practical Steps for Obtaining a Second Passport

1. Research and Choose a Country:
   • Investigate countries that offer second passports through investment, ancestry, or residency. Consider the benefits, such as visa-free travel, tax advantages, and political stability.
2. Consult Legal Experts:
   • Engage with legal and immigration experts who specialize in second citizenship. They can guide the application process, required documentation, and potential legal implications.
3. Fulfill Requirements:
   • Depending on the country, this might involve making a financial investment, demonstrating residency, or proving ancestry. To avoid complications, ensure all legal and financial obligations are met.
4. Submit Application:
   • Prepare and submit your application with all necessary documents, including proof of investment, residency, or lineage. Be prepared for thorough background checks.
5. Obtain Citizenship and Passport:
   • Once approved, you will be granted citizenship and issued a second passport. This provides the flexibility and security of having an additional nationality.

Starting Over with a New Identity

Starting over with a new identity involves significant challenges. It requires meticulous planning and adherence to legal processes to ensure safety and legitimacy.

1. Legal Name Change:
   • In many countries, changing your name legally is relatively straightforward. This typically involves submitting a petition, providing a valid reason, and sometimes publishing the change in local media. Once approved, new identity documents, such as passports and driver’s licenses, are issued.
2. Maintaining Anonymity:
   • Digital and personal security measures are essential to maintaining a new identity. Use encrypted communication, secure passwords, and be cautious about sharing personal information online. Living discreetly and avoiding drawing attention to yourself is crucial.
3. Financial Stability:
   • Ensuring long-term financial security is critical. Finding legal employment can be challenging, especially with a new identity. Proper financial planning and management are essential to sustaining a new life abroad.

Challenges and Considerations

1. Legal and Ethical Implications:
   • Running from legal issues can lead to severe consequences, including international arrest warrants and difficulties obtaining asylum. It is imperative to consult legal experts to ensure that actions are within legal boundaries. Consider the moral implications of fleeing legal issues and the potential impact on family and loved ones.
2. Cultural and Social Adaptation:
   • Adapting to a new culture and society can be challenging. Learning the local language is crucial for integration and daily interactions. Understanding and respecting local customs and traditions can ease the transition.

Conclusion

Holding a second passport and multiple identities is becoming increasingly relevant in our globalized world. While traditional views on citizenship remain, the practicalities of modern life demand more flexible approaches.

Political protectionism and outdated laws only hinder progress. Embracing multiple citizenships and prioritizing residency over nationality can foster greater cohesion, commitment, and connectivity between individuals and nations.

Obtaining a second passport and starting over with a new identity is a complex process that requires careful planning, legal guidance, and ethical considerations.

As the world slowly but steadily moves towards more inclusive and practical approaches to citizenship, individuals seeking a fresh start or greater security must navigate these changes wisely.

Ultimately, the goal should be to ensure safety, stability, and a sense of belonging while respecting the laws and norms of the chosen refuge. Multiple citizenships are inevitable and a celebration of the interconnected and diverse world in which we live.