It’s bad enough being an American abroad if you were born and raised in the country and still consider it home. It’s infinitely worse for “accidental” Americans born in the United States but who have few connections to the country other than the expense and hassle of filing two annual tax returns plus FATCA and FBAR forms.

U.S. tax laws make it impossible for an accidental American in Germany to live a normal life.

Laura Sanchez moved to Europe to be closer to family. Little did she suspect that her U.S. citizenship might be a handicap.