For SBA lenders

What specific documentation is required from a lender to verify the U.S. citizenship of an owner who also holds citizenship in another country?

Short answer

A lender verifies dual citizenship by requiring proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., U.S. Passport, Birth Certificate) as the primary determinant, as the existence of other citizenships does not negate U.S. eligibility.

The rule

For SBA purposes, if an individual holds U.S. citizenship, their status as a dual citizen does not affect their eligibility. The critical factor is proof of U.S. citizenship. Lenders must obtain standard documentation (e.g., valid U.S. passport, U.S. birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization) to confirm this.

Facts that matter

Dual citizenship
U.S. citizen
Verification documents
Eligibility
Passport

Example structure

An applicant for a 7(a) loan discloses they are a dual citizen of the U.S. and Canada. The lender requires a copy of their U.S. passport as sufficient proof of U.S. citizenship for eligibility purposes.

What specific documentation is required from a lender to verify the U.S. citizenship of an owner who also holds citizenship in another country?

The rule

Facts that matter

Example structure

What lenders usually care about

Official sources