You will no longer be an American citizen if you voluntarily give up (renounce) your U.S. citizenship.

You might lose your U.S. citizenship in specific cases, including if you:

• Run for public office in a foreign country (under certain conditions)

• Enter military service in a foreign country (under certain conditions)

• Apply for citizenship in a foreign country with the intention of giving up U.S. citizenship

• Commit an act of treason against the United States

Giving up your U.S. citizenship has consequences. You should never make this decision lightly, as it can only be undone under very limited circumstances. Renouncing your U.S. citizenship means that you:

• Give up your rights and responsibilities as a U.S. citizen.

• Must become a citizen of another nation, or risk becoming "stateless."

• May need a visa to visit the United States.

Contact the U.S. Embassy or consulate in the country where you intend to live to renounce your U.S. citizenship.

In Delaware, as in all U.S. states, the renunciation of U.S. citizenship is governed by federal law, not state law. According to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), U.S. citizens have the right to renounce their citizenship voluntarily. This process typically involves appearing in person before a U.S. consular or diplomatic officer in a foreign country and signing an oath of renunciation. Specific acts that can lead to the loss of U.S. citizenship include running for public office, serving in the military of a foreign state, applying for foreign citizenship with the intention to relinquish U.S. citizenship, or committing treason. Renouncing U.S. citizenship is a serious and irrevocable act that results in the loss of all rights and responsibilities associated with being a U.S. citizen, including the right of entry without a visa. Individuals considering this step should consult with an attorney and the U.S. Embassy or consulate in the country where they reside to understand the full implications and procedural requirements.