Citizens are quitting America and even paying a fee to do it

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleThe primary motivation for renouncing citizenship is often financial, as the U.S. uniquely taxes its citizens based on citizenship rather than residency, requiring those living abroad to file annual tax returns (AFP via Getty Images)Nearly 5,000 individuals renounced their United States citizenship in 2025, marking the highest number since 2020. The primary motivation for renouncing citizenship is often financial, as the U.S. uniquely taxes its citizens based on citizenship rather than residency, requiring those living abroad to file annual tax returns. Beyond financial considerations, some individuals cite personal and political reasons, expressing disappointment with the country's political direction or specific policies, such as those implemented by Donald Trump. The process of renouncing citizenship is complex, requiring multiple interviews with U.S. diplomatic officials and an in-person oath, and carries the risk of becoming stateless. A significant reduction in consular fees, from 2,350 to 450, is expected to lead to an increase in citizenship renunciations in 2026. In fullNearly 5,000 ‘Americans’ renounced their citizenship last year – the highest mark in yearsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

Raccontata dacnn.comindependent.co.uk