Dual citizenship can be obtained free for month

Mexican nationality certificates for U.S.-citizen minors and students of Mexican parents can be obtained free of charge this month at Tijuana’s civil registry offices as part of a statewide campaign.

The Soy México (I am Mexico) campaign allows applicants to be exempt from paying for certification services, including as translation and apostille authentication of the U.S. birth certificate.

In Tijuana, this means a $292 savings, officials said. It is estimated that 23,000 children and young adults could benefit from this campaign.

“This is an expedite and safe process that generates legal certainty, and in support of family budgets, it is free,” said Angélica Félix, an official with the Tijuana Civil Registry.

Those interested can request an application form at Tijuana’s civil registry offices.

Requirements are an original and copy of the minor’s U.S. birth certificate, as well as the original and copy of the parent’s Mexican birth certificate with the QR code, copy of an official ID and the certified CURP, or Unique Population Registry Code.

Having dual citizenship provides benefits such as access to public education, employment opportunities, health services, property rights, voting rights and eligibility to run for public office, among others.

“Allowing people to be citizens of two nations opens up a range of possibilities in terms of trade, tourism, education and collaboration in various fields,” said Elizabeth Márquez, director of the Civil Registry in Baja California.

The statewide campaign began in July for Mexicali and San Felipe residents. Ensenada, San Quintín and Rosarito will be next in September.

The launch ceremony in Tijuana took place Monday at City Hall, where a group of children and young adults received their Mexican nationality certificates.

Tijuana Mayor Montserrat Caballero quoted the wellknown phrase of late singer Chavela Vargas: “Mexicans are born wherever they want.”

She told the group of children and young adults: “From now on, you will live without borders and without walls.”