Since 1 January 1992, Swiss law has allowed multiple citizenship without any restrictions. Nevertheless, the acquisition of a foreign citizenship is subject to the legislation of the other state concerned.

Swiss citizens who acquire a foreign citizenship

Swiss citizens may acquire another nationality without affecting their Swiss citizenship provided that the legislation of the other state does not require that they renounce their citizenship of origin. For further information on the applicable citizenship legislation of the other state, please contact the competent authority of that state directly. 

Swiss nationals living abroad who have acquired citizenship of another state must notify the representation where they are registered.

Foreign nationals applying for Swiss naturalisation

By acquiring Swiss citizenship, foreign nationals may lose the citizenship of their country of origin if the legislation of their country of origin requires it. Relevant official information can be obtained from the authorities of the country of origin.

Consequences of multiple citizenship for FDFA services

Individuals with multiple citizenship may be entitled to receive only a limited range of FDFA services, which are governed by the Swiss Abroad Act (SAA; CC 195.1) and the Swiss Abroad Ordinance (SAO; CC 195.11). 

Swiss citizens who hold multiple citizenship may receive the same Swiss consular protection as persons who only hold Swiss citizenship. A Swiss citizen who is also a citizen of the state where they reside may receive Swiss consular protection provided that their country of residence does not object. 

Swiss citizens who are also citizens of their country of residence are treated by the local authorities as their own citizens because they consider that the non-Swiss citizenship takes precedence. 

Swiss citizens residing abroad who hold multiple citizenship are generally not entitled to Swiss social assistance if the foreign citizenship takes precedence.