U.S. – Mexico: Dual Nationality

Mexican Americans may struggle to identify solely as an American when they were raised by Mexican nationals with Mexican customs. Dual nationality with Mexico allows them to honor both cultural influences. Acquiring dual nationality is important if they plan to stay or live long term in Mexico without the hassle of requesting visas, gives them ownership of their identity and heritage, and allows them to travel under the benefits of using a Mexican passport. It is important to consult with an immigration attorney when issues of proof exist when requesting dual nationality.

U.S. nationals who are descendants of Mexican nationals (even if the parent is also a U.S. national) can become a Mexican national. This can be held along with their U.S. nationality/citizenship. The process is called Registro Civil and can be completed at the majority of the Mexican Consulates in the United States, including in Sacramento, CA.

The hardest part of the Registro Civil process is gathering the necessary documents, making sure the names on the documents match the applicable birth certificates, and having the necessary individuals present at the appointment. The Mexican Consulate issues you a new Mexican birth certificate after you meet all the requirements. Once you obtain your Mexican birth certificate, you can set up an appointment at the Mexican Consulate to receive your Mexican passport.

Registro Civil Requirements

1. Certified copy of the Applicant’s birth certificate.
2. Certified copy of the Applicant’s parent’s birth certificate.
3. Certified copy of the parent’s civil marriage certificate.
   1. If only the mother or Applicant is present during Registro Civil, the parent’s marriage must have been celebrated six (6) months before the Applicant’s birth.
   2. If the Applicant was born to unmarried parents, the Applicant must be accompanied by the father. If the father cannot be present, the Applicant must present a Power of Attorney issued in Mexico or issued by any Mexican Consulate in the U.S.
4. Valid parent’s official photograph I.D. (Matricular Consular, Mexican Passport, or Voter’s Card). The names on this I.D. must match their birth certificate.
5. Applicant’s official photograph I.D. (U.S. Passport, DMV I.D., school I.D., letter signed by pediatrician with a picture).
6. Certified copy of the Applicant’s marriage certificate if the Applicant is married.
7. Accompanied by two witnesses. They must be eighteen (18) years or older and have an acceptable identification. (driver’s license or passport). The Mexican Consulate may have witnesses available.
8. Certified copy of a death certificate if any of the parents are deceased.

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