Naturalization

Naturalization is the legal process by which a noncitizen acquires citizenship in a country. Its requirements and effects are set by that country's law.

Citizenship: Legal membership in a state, usually carrying rights and duties defined by its laws. Naturalization is one route into the legal status citizenship names.
Nationality: A legal bond between a person and a state, which may determine diplomatic protection and other rights. Naturalization changes a person’s formal relationship with a state.
Citizenship by descent: Citizenship acquired through a citizen parent or ancestor under a country’s nationality laws. Descent-based citizenship derives from family ties, not a naturalization decision.
Voting rights: Legal entitlements to participate in elections and other formal political decision-making. Naturalization commonly grants access to national elections, subject to local rules.
United States naturalization: The process through which eligible noncitizens become United States citizens under federal law. Its application, examination, and oath illustrate a widely documented national procedure.
Naturalization test: An examination of an applicant’s knowledge or language ability used in some naturalization systems. Some countries use tests to assess applicants before granting citizenship.
Immigration: The movement of people into a country to live there, temporarily or permanently. Immigration can precede naturalization, but living in a country does not itself confer citizenship.
Citizenship by investment: Citizenship granted under a state program in exchange for qualifying financial contributions or investments. These programs can shorten or bypass ordinary residence and integration requirements.
Passport: An official travel document issued by a state to identify its citizens and request their protection abroad. New citizens may become eligible for the country’s passport.
British nationality law: The body of United Kingdom law governing British nationality and citizenship. It sets the rules for naturalization as a British citizen.

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