In an unprecedented surge of interest, Americans are increasingly exploring dual citizenship options following the 2024 presidential election, with Boundless seeing nearly a quarter of a million searches related to citizenship the week of the election, more than double the volume any week in the last year. This trend reflects growing concerns about political stability and represents a significant shift in how Americans view their global mobility options.
A Dramatic Post-Election Surge
During the week of November 4-10, Boundless internal data shows dual citizenship inquiries more than doubled compared to the previous month, with traffic to Dual Citizenship, Explained increasing 300%. This dramatic increase isn’t just a temporary spike — it’s part of a larger pattern that has been building over several years. Between 2020 and 2024, Boundless’ citizenship services have increased 273%, with a 68% increase in clients between October and November.
“The surge in interest around dual citizenship reflects a deeper anxiety about belonging and security in today’s America,” says Xiao Wang, CEO of Boundless Immigration. “While we’re seeing many Americans explore their options, what’s most important is understanding your existing rights and pathways. Whether you’re a green card holder considering U.S. citizenship to secure your status here, or an American seeking to understand your heritage through citizenship claims abroad, these are complex personal decisions that deserve careful consideration and proper guidance.”
Geographic Trends Paint a Complex Picture
The movement isn’t limited to any single region or demographic. Search trends for dual citizenship information show particularly high interest from Hawaii, Washington D.C., Nevada, Washington, and New Jersey. This geographic diversity suggests the trend crosses political and cultural boundaries.
The surge in citizenship-related inquiries is reflected in Boundless’s own data, which shows dramatic growth in people exploring U.S. naturalization across the country. While Boundless serves clients in all 50 states, some regions have seen particularly striking increases compared to last year: California experienced a 58% rise in citizenship applications, while Texas and Florida both saw their numbers double. Georgia recorded an even more dramatic 121% increase, while all other states combined showed a remarkable 200% jump in citizenship seekers.
This coast-to-coast growth in citizenship interest, whether for U.S. naturalization or exploring dual citizenship options, points to a broader national conversation about belonging, security, and civic participation in America.
The Growing American Diaspora
This increased interest in dual citizenship comes at a time when the American expatriate community is already substantial. According to the Association of Americans Resident Overseas (AARO), approximately 5.5 million Americans currently live abroad — enough to constitute the 23rd most populous U.S. state if they were gathered in one place. The largest populations are found in Mexico (1.18 million), Canada (1.05 million), the United Kingdom (325,000), Israel (281,000), and Germany (239,000).
Investment Options and Popular Destinations
For those without family ties to other countries, investment-based citizenship programs offer alternative pathways. The Caribbean region has emerged as a popular choice, with countries like Costa Rica offering programs starting at $150,000 in real estate investments. Panama has also attracted attention with its retiree-friendly policies.
In Europe, Portugal, Malta, and Spain remain highly desirable destinations, though their programs often have higher investment requirements. These countries offer not just citizenship possibilities but also high living standards and access to the European Union.
A Long-Term Trend Accelerates
The current surge isn’t occurring in isolation. Since 2019, U.S. inquiries for dual citizenship have increased substantially across multiple metrics. This growth reflects broader concerns beyond immediate political changes, including:
- Social issues and civil rights
- Healthcare system resilience
- Potential future crises
- Economic stability
- Global mobility options
Looking Forward
Research from investment firm Arton Capitol found that 53% of wealthy Americans are considering leaving the country, regardless of political outcomes. However, experts emphasize that most people aren’t looking to cut ties with the United States entirely.
Instead, this trend represents a new approach to global citizenship, where individuals seek to expand their options rather than limit them. As global uncertainty continues, this movement toward dual citizenship may represent a fundamental shift in how Americans view their place in the world.
For those considering this path, experts recommend thorough research into various programs’ requirements, costs, and implications. Whether through ancestral claims or investment programs, the process of obtaining dual citizenship requires careful planning and often significant resources.
As this trend continues to develop, it may signal a broader transformation in how citizenship itself is viewed in an increasingly interconnected world, where having options for global mobility is becoming less a luxury and more a strategic necessity for many Americans.