A record number of Americans renounced their US citizenship in the last few years — here's how you do it

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The number of Americans renouncing their citizenship has grown significantly over the past few years, hitting a record high of 5,411 in 2016. Renunciations fell slightly last year, though there were still nearly 1,000 more than in 2015. 

Americans may choose to renounce their citizenship for a variety of reasons: High taxes (the US is one of the few countries that taxes citizens based on worldwide income), family circumstances, and legal complications are just some of the explanations.

The process of renouncing US citizenship can be complex and expensive.  Here's how to do it:

Make sure you have a second nationality before you renounce.

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If you are not a citizen of another country, it is possible for you to become stateless after renouncing, which means you won't be protected by any government. Stateless people can have significant trouble owning property, working, receiving medical help, and attending school.

A US Consulate can deny your request to renounce your citizenship if you don't already have a second passport or another nationality. 

 

Schedule appointments with an embassy or consulate abroad.

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If you want to renounce, you'll need to schedule multiple appointments with a US embassy or consulate in another country. 

Ideally, you can attend these meetings in the same country where you intend to live, but you're allowed to go to any US embassy or consulate as long as your stay in that country is legal.

Consulates require you to show up with your US birth certificate and, if you own one, a certificate of naturalization from the country where you will be living.

Meet with diplomatic officials to discuss your case and sign documents.

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Before the first appointment, you'll need to fill out and sign the DS-4079 questionnaire, which is used to request the loss of US citizenship

Diplomatic officials use the first interview to ensure that you aren't renouncing your citizenship under duress. The second appointment includes reading an oath in which you state your desire to renounce citizenship.

Your documents are then sent to the US State Department, which reviews the paperwork and makes a decision on your case in about one or two months. You will receive your Certificate of Loss of Nationality afterward. 

See the rest of the story at Business Insider

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SEE ALSO: Here's The Law That's Driving Record Numbers Of Americans To Renounce Their Citizenship

SEE ALSO: Why a record number of Americans are giving up their citizenship

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