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 Illinois, as in all states, the regulation of U.S. citizenship, including the renunciation of citizenship, is governed by federal law, not state statutes. Under federal law, U.S. citizens can voluntarily renounce their citizenship by appearing in person before a U.S. consular or diplomatic officer in a foreign country and signing an oath of renunciation. Certain actions can also lead to the loss of U.S. citizenship, such as serving in the armed forces of a foreign state engaged in hostilities against the U.S., or holding a policy-level position in a foreign government. However, these actions must be accompanied by the intention to relinquish U.S. citizenship. Renouncing U.S. citizenship is a serious and irrevocable act that requires careful consideration. Once renounced, the individual loses the rights and responsibilities of a U.S. citizen, may become stateless if not already a citizen of another country, and would require a visa to visit the U.S. An attorney specializing in immigration law can provide guidance on the process and consequences of renouncing U.S. citizenship.