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Dual citizenship (also called dual nationality) means a person is legally recognized as a citizen of two countries at the same time. This status arises through various means, including birth in one country to parents from another, naturalization while retaining original citizenship, or marriage. The United States permits dual citizenship, though it neither encourages nor prohibits the practice.

In criminal law and true crime contexts, dual citizenship creates complex legal issues. When a dual citizen is arrested abroad, both countries may claim the right to provide consular assistance, though the country where the arrest occurs typically takes precedence. Extradition becomes more complicated when a suspect holds citizenship in the country from which extradition is sought, as many nations prohibit or restrict extraditing their own citizens. This has allowed some criminal suspects to avoid prosecution by fleeing to their other country of citizenship.

Jurisdictional questions also arise when dual citizens commit crimes. Both countries may claim the right to prosecute under principles of nationality jurisdiction, particularly for serious offenses like terrorism or espionage. U.S. law addresses citizenship retention and loss through provisions that specify acts which may result in loss of U.S. nationality, though the Supreme Court has held that loss of citizenship requires voluntary, intentional relinquishment.

Dual citizenship can affect security clearances, as background investigations must cover activities in both countries. Some high-profile criminal cases have involved defendants using dual citizenship to complicate investigations, delay extradition proceedings, or claim protection from foreign governments. The practical effect in criminal proceedings depends heavily on treaties between the involved nations and the specific circumstances of each case.