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2d ago

Pope Leo XIV's Dual Citizenship Raises Legal Questions in the U.S.

The U.S. State Department may review the citizenship of the first U.S.-born pope, though termination is deemed highly unlikely.

Faithful wait for Pope Leo XIV weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican, Wednesday, May 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)
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Pope Leo XIV waves as he arrives for his first weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican, Wednesday, May 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)
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Overview

  • Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, is the first U.S.-born leader of the Catholic Church and holds dual citizenship in the U.S. and Peru.
  • As the head of the Vatican City, a recognized sovereign state, Pope Leo's dual citizenship status introduces complex legal and diplomatic considerations.
  • The U.S. State Department may review the citizenship of Americans serving as foreign heads of state but cannot revoke it unless there is intent to renounce, as per a 1980 Supreme Court ruling.
  • Experts, including legal scholar Peter Spiro, believe it is highly unlikely that Pope Leo's U.S. citizenship will be terminated since there is no evidence of renunciation.
  • Historical precedent shows previous popes retained their original citizenship, and Peruvian law allows Pope Leo to maintain his citizenship without conflict.