Natalie Portman’s Dual Citizenship

Natalie Portman, the Oscar-winning actress, holds dual citizenship in both Israel and the United States. Her father, Avner Hershlag, is an Israeli-born fertility specialist, and her mother, Shelley Stevens, is an American from Ohio. The couple met while Avner was studying at Ohio State University, later moving to Israel, where Natalie was born.

How Natalie Portman Gained Dual Citizenship

Since her father was an Israeli citizen, Natalie automatically received Israeli citizenship by virtue of being born in Israel under Israeli nationality laws. Israel grants citizenship based on the Law of Return, which applies to Jewish individuals and their descendants, as well as those born in the country.

Though Natalie was born in Israel, her mother was a U.S. citizen by birth. According to U.S. law (specifically jus sanguinis, or “right of blood”), Natalie was automatically granted U.S. Citizenship.

The Benefits of Dual Citizenship

Natalie Portman’s dual citizenship has provided her with unique advantages throughout her life, both personally and professionally:

1. Travel and Mobility: As a citizen of both Israel and the U.S., Natalie enjoys the ability to travel freely between the two countries. This ease of movement has been especially beneficial for her career, allowing her to work in both Hollywood and Israel without visa restrictions.

2. Cultural and Professional Opportunities: Natalie’s dual citizenship allows her to fully engage with both American and Israeli cultures. She has frequently spoken about her connection to Israel and the impact it has had on her personal and professional identity. This connection came to life when she directed and starred in the Hebrew-language film A Tale of Love and Darkness, which was based on Israeli author Amos Oz’s novel.

3. Legal Rights and Protections: Dual citizenship provides Natalie with the legal protections and rights of both countries. Should she ever encounter legal issues in one country, she has the support and backing of the other, giving her more flexibility and security.

Patricia Elizee is the managing partner of the Elizee Law Firm, an immigration law firm located at 1110 Brickell Avenue, Suite 315, Miami, Florida 33131. Phone: 305-371-8846. The law firm was established in 2012. Ms. Elizee earned her Juris Doctorate at the University of Miami School of Law and her Masters in Law from the University of Washington School of Law.