Celebrities Who Became U.S. Citizens: Naturalization and Dual Nationality

Several high-profile entertainers, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jim Carrey, and Ryan Reynolds, have obtained U.S. citizenship through naturalization. These individuals often maintain dual citizenship with their birth countries, allowing them to work and hold political office within the United States while retaining their original national identities.

Why do celebrities apply for U.S. citizenship?

Celebrities typically seek U.S. citizenship to eliminate the need for work visas and to gain the right to vote or hold public office. Most foreign artists enter the U.S. on an O-1 visa, which is reserved for individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). While the O-1 visa allows for professional work, it is temporary.

Naturalization provides permanent residency and legal protections that visas do not. For some, the move is political. Arnold Schwarzenegger, born in Austria, required U.S. citizenship to run for and serve as the Governor of California, a position he held from 2003 to 2011, as documented by the Official Website of the State of California.

Which celebrities hold dual U.S. citizenship?

Many stars from Canada and Europe maintain their original passports while holding U.S. citizenship. This dual status simplifies international travel and allows them to maintain ties to their home countries.

• Ryan Reynolds: The Deadpool actor was born in Vancouver, Canada. Reynolds holds dual citizenship, allowing him to maintain his Canadian identity while residing and working permanently in the U.S.
• Jim Carrey: Born in Newmarket, Ontario, Carrey naturalized as a U.S. citizen to support his long-term career in Hollywood.
• Natalie Portman: Born in Jerusalem, Portman holds dual citizenship in Israel and the United States, as noted in her professional biographies.
• Mila Kunis: Kunis emigrated from Soviet Ukraine to the U.S. as a child. She later became a naturalized citizen, a transition she has discussed in interviews regarding her immigrant experience.

How does the naturalization process work for high-profile figures?

The legal path to citizenship for celebrities generally follows the same requirements as any other foreign national, though they often utilize specialized immigration attorneys. According to USCIS, the standard process requires a person to be a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) for at least five years, show a basic understanding of English, and pass a test on U.S. history and government.

Celebrities often obtain their Green Cards through employment-based categories before applying for naturalization. The “Extraordinary Ability” category (EB-1) is the most common route for world-renowned actors and musicians, as it allows them to bypass certain labor certifications required for other workers.

Comparison of Citizenship Status

Common Questions About Celebrity Citizenship

Can celebrities keep their original citizenship?
Yes, if their home country allows dual nationality. Canada and Israel, for example, permit their citizens to hold U.S. passports without forfeiting their original citizenship.

Do celebrities get a “fast track” to citizenship?
There is no official “celebrity” fast track. However, those with extraordinary achievements can apply for an EB-1 visa, which accelerates the path to a Green Card, the prerequisite for naturalization.

Does U.S. citizenship affect their taxes?
Yes. The U.S. is one of the few countries that taxes its citizens on their global income, regardless of where they live. According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), U.S. citizens must report worldwide income annually.