Question about renouncing citizenship

[Bobula]

I was discussing the election results with a coworker today and we got on to the taboo subject of renouncing citizenship. What would be the legal ramifications of renouncing citizenship to become illegal? Also does anyone know how the process works?

I know there would be the loss of right to vote and own firearms legally, but what else?


DISCLAIMER: I have absolutely zero intent of renouncing my citizenship in any way shape or form, I am just curious.

[littlejake]

It cannot be done while residing in the United States. It must be done on foreign soil and (I believe) at an embassy.

Immediate loss of US Passport. Return to US soil would be very difficult.

Your US assets would likely be frozen.

[Barabas]

I have only conversed with one person (Arudo Debito, famous hakujin Japanese civil rights activist) who has successfully renounced US citizenship. Since he documented the process of becoming a naturalized Japanese citizen several others have also done so. It's apparently easier now than it used to be.

Once renounced, you're at the mercy of the Customs agent who checks you into the country. It can be as pleasant or nightmarish as only bureaucracies can be.

David documents his Customs encounters on his website Debito.org.

ETA: http://travel.state.gov/law/citizens...nship_776.html outlines the requirements and subsequent impact of fulfilling them.

[Bruce]

It cannot be done while residing in the United States. It must be done on foreign soil and (I believe) at an embassy.

Immediate loss of US Passport. Return to US soil would be very difficult.

Your US assets would likely be frozen.

No it wouldn't. You just walk in like every other illegal.

[cadillacmike]

I can't think of a dumber thing to do.

Now there are more dangerous things one can do, that will get one killed or injured / maimed instantly, but dumber - nope that has got to be it.