Carbon dots (CDs) with quantum yield up to 83% have been synthesized with a Mg/N double doping fluorescence-enhanced strategy. Besides N-mediated surface passivation by ethylenediamine, the Mg窶田itric acid chelate played the roles of introducing Mg and preserving the carboxyl group, both greatly contributing to the photoluminescence enhancement of the final CDs. Importantly, the N- and Mg-doping functioned in concert without mutual influence.