Naturalization

Naturalisation is the legal process through which a foreigner officially becomes a citizen of a country after meeting statutory conditions.

Naturalisation conditions vary between countries but usually include: a minimum number of years of legal residency, proof of language proficiency, knowledge of the host country's history and institutions, and a clean criminal record.

This is the most common path to becoming a citizen, distinct from having citizenship by blood at birth or through a citizenship-by-investment programme. Naturalisation requires a practical and long-term attachment to the country.

After naturalisation, new citizens are usually entitled to the same full rights as native-born citizens, including the right to vote, work without restrictions, and hold that country's passport.

Learn about a typical naturalisation process via our article on United States naturalisation.