Quote:
Originally Posted by Militaryman
@ fifi. Although I don't have a SSN or US passport, flying beneath the radar is not an option as I regularly cross the border on military business using my Cdn passport. Two years ago I was given a little grief by a US border agent claiming I was a US citizen because I hadn't made a renounciation declaration at a US consulate/embassy (IAW INA Sect 349a(5)). I didn't argue at the time as I had a plane to catch and a meeting to get to!
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Yes, that birthplace is the one quirk, isn't it. I crossed the border in July (knowing full well that I am supposed to use my US passport). When the friendly border agent asked my citizenship, I answered that I was dual, and he asked me which passport I wanted to use. I handed him my Canadian one with no problem. Obviously he didn't know the rules... or didn't care. That was at Port Angeles, and we were one of the earlier cars off of a full ferry. Can't guarantee that would happen every time, though.
I know the rules of citizenship have changed many times, even in the last 20 years. I'd do a bit of further investigating to see if you 'really' are a US citizen. State seems to be reasonable to deal with. Explain your circumstances to them and see what their take is. My dual Brit/US friend received a letterfrom State when she turned 21, asking her to pick one. She never answered, and still continues to hold two current passports. I think the rules change so much that no one can be bothered to keep track of which rule existed when.
BTW, thanks for the service to Canada! My husband just retired after 26 years in the Navy. Good times!