What is a Certificate of Loss of Nationality (CLN) and how is it issued?

A Certificate of Loss of Nationality (CLN) is a formal document issued by the U.S. Department of State to confirm that an individual has voluntarily relinquished their U.S. citizenship. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), citizens may lose their status by performing certain expatriating acts—such as naturalizing in a foreign state or taking an oath of allegiance to a foreign state—with the specific intent to relinquish U.S. citizenship.

The process typically involves an in-person interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. During this process, the individual must sign a 'Statement of Voluntary Relinquishment' and undergo an administrative review to ensure the decision is made voluntarily and with full understanding of the consequences, which include the loss of the right to live and work in the U.S. and the loss of U.S. consular protection. Once approved, the document is sent to the Department of State in Washington, D.C., for final review and approval. It is important to note that the process is irrevocable; once the CLN is issued, the individual is considered a foreign national and may require a visa to enter the United States in the future.