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 Kentucky, 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 renounce their citizenship in a formal process that requires them to appear in person before a U.S. consular or diplomatic officer in a foreign country (not in the U.S.) and sign an oath of renunciation. Running for public office in a foreign country, serving in a foreign military, applying for foreign citizenship with the intent to relinquish U.S. citizenship, or committing an act of treason can also lead to loss of U.S. citizenship, but only under certain conditions that typically require the individual to have the intention of giving up their citizenship. Renouncing U.S. citizenship is a serious and irrevocable act that leads to losing the rights and responsibilities of a U.S. citizen, potentially becoming stateless, and requiring a visa to visit the U.S. Individuals considering this step should consult with an attorney and contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate for the proper procedures.