Obtaining My Dual Citizenship: A Journey to Reconnecting with My Roots

There are moments in life that leave a lasting imprint on your heart, and obtaining my dual citizenship was one of them. As a Mexican-American, I’ve always felt deeply connected to my heritage. Still, holding my Mexican passport in hand brought a profound sense of validation and pride. It wasn’t just about securing a document; it was about honoring my roots, my family’s sacrifices, and the journey that has shaped me. This process opened a new chapter in my life—one of learning more about my history, deepening my connection to Mexico, and celebrating this integral part of my identity.

Taking the First Step

For anyone considering this process, I truly applaud you. It took me a long time to overcome the mental barriers of even calling to schedule my appointment. The process felt daunting, but thankfully, my mom was my biggest cheerleader, gently encouraging me to take that leap. Her support reminded me that every step, no matter how overwhelming it seems, is worth it.

Appointments for dual citizenship can be scheduled every Monday. If you don’t get through on your first try, don’t be discouraged—try again the following Monday. To make an appointment, call 424-309-0009 at 8:55 AM CST for the best chance. This phone number is used for all U.S.-based Mexican Consulates. The system offers options in Spanish and English, but keep in mind that the representatives are not official consulate agents. They can provide basic information but will direct you to the official website for any detailed guidance.

My personal experience took place at the Mexican Consulate in Chicago. Once at the Consulate, it’s important to note that the entire process is conducted in Spanish, so prepare accordingly.

My Experience at the Consulate

Here’s a breakdown of my dual citizenship journey:

1. Setting the Appointment

I scheduled my appointment for Wednesday, January 22, as my mom had a passport appointment that day. Although I planned to attend with her, I ended up going alone.

2. What I Brought

I came prepared with:

- My US birth certificate (official copy)

- My US passport (as photo identification)

- My mom’s Mexican birth certificate (official copy)

Please note I went through this process with just my mom’s information. It is highly preferred to proceed with both parents’ birth certificates and their marriage certificate if they’re married. If you’re unable to obtain your parent’s Mexican birth certificate beforehand, it may be possible to obtain it on-site at the Consulate for a small fee. I thankfully had my mom’s with me, but please look further into this option if you’re unable to secure the document in advance.

Note: Your documents should be in good condition—damage to birth certificates may result in delays or being turned away.

3. At the Consulate

After going through security, I checked in by confirming my appointment. I was directed to the Registro Civil area downstairs, where the appointment takes place in an open space at a glass window.

The process began with completing a form that required:

- My name, birth date, and birth hour

- My parents’ and grandparents’ information

- My home address

- My marital status

- The Mexican state my parents are registered in

While I filled out the form, an agent made copies of the documents I brought. They kept my US birth certificate but returned everything else.

Important Tip: Carefully review the information the agents input. An agent accidentally listed my birth year as 1966 instead of 1996. If I hadn’t caught the error, it would have required a lengthy legal correction process in Mexican court.

4. Receiving My Mexican Birth Certificate

Once the paperwork was processed, I was called back up to sign the forms and provide fingerprints—both digital and thumbprints on paper. Moments later, they handed me my official Mexican birth certificate. Holding it in my hands was incredibly emotional. This document represented a lifetime of pride in my roots and sacrifices made by my family.

5. Processing My Passport

Although passport appointments are typically separate, I decided to ask if I could process mine on the same day. The trick that worked for me was going upstairs to the window near the entrance and politely requesting a same-day passport appointment. The agent handed me a clear folder with a number, which allowed me to proceed immediately with this next step.

Back downstairs, I completed additional paperwork, provided my Mexican birth certificate and my state ID, and selected the 10-year passport option for $203. They took my picture for my passport. I paid at the CAJA (payment window) before waiting for my name to be called.

When they handed me my Mexican passport, I was overwhelmed with emotion seeing both of my parents’ last names officially listed. In Mexico, it’s customary to include both parents’ surnames, so this felt like a beautiful representation for my mom’s legacy specifically.

Key Tips for a Smooth Process

- Call early: Appointments fill quickly. Start dialing just before 9 AM CST.

- Prepare your documents: Ensure your documents are in excellent condition and bring originals.

- Double-check details: Review all forms and information carefully for accuracy.

- Explore on-site options: If you don’t have your parent’s Mexican birth certificate, inquire if it can be issued on-site.

- Ask nicely: If you’re interested in completing your passport on the same day, don’t hesitate to ask politely. And multiple people. I was told no by one agent to call again and another directed me upstairs to ask. It doesn’t hurt to be curious.

The Benefits of Dual Citizenship

Holding dual citizenship opens up so many opportunities. I cannot wait to explore these possibilities as I connect more with my new identity.

- Ease of travel: A Mexican passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries.

- Legal benefits in Mexico: You can own property and access legal rights reserved for Mexican nationals.

- Cultural connection: It’s an incredible way to deepen your ties to your heritage and maintain a sense of belonging to both countries.

This experience was so much more than checking off a bureaucratic task—it was a celebration of my identity and the resilience of my family. I hope this guide encourages and empowers you to start your own journey. It takes preparation and persistence, but trust me, the pride you’ll feel is unmatched.

If you’re embarking on this process, know that every case is unique. Stay patient, come prepared, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. ¡Buena suerte!

If you need motivation as you prep for your appointment and/or you want to celebrate the beauty of being de aquí y de allá, visit our online shop. We offer products that embrace the identity of being from both worlds, perfect for honoring your dual heritage.