FlagSageNaturalization
Glossary term
Naturalization is the process by which a country grants citizenship to a foreign national after they meet conditions set by its law, usually including a period of lawful residence.
Each country sets its own conditions. In the United States, USCIS describes naturalization as the process by which citizenship is granted to a lawful permanent resident after meeting requirements established by Congress. Its general route asks for at least five years as a permanent resident, continuous residence for those five years, physical presence for at least 30 months of them, good moral character, basic English, knowledge of civics and an oath of allegiance.
Other countries use different residence periods, language and knowledge tests, and rules on time spent abroad. Check the current official guidance of the country concerned.
Naturalization can affect a person's existing citizenship, because many countries do not accept dual citizenship. It does not by itself change tax residence, although a new citizenship can bring its own tax and reporting rules, as US citizenship does.
Not to be confused with
- Citizenship by descent. Citizenship by descent passes through a parent, while naturalization is granted after an application and conditions such as residence.
- Dual citizenship. Dual citizenship is the result of holding two citizenships, which naturalization may or may not allow.
Sources
- Citizenship and NaturalizationOfficial guidance
- I am a Lawful Permanent Resident of 5 YearsOfficial guidance
- Dual citizenshipOfficial guidance
Related
- Countries covered
- General
- Sources
- 3 sources
- Tax year
- Current rules as checked
- Review
- Not professionally reviewed
Sources checked November 8, 2026