The legal process by which a foreign national acquires citizenship of a country other than their country of birth. This process typically involves meeting residency requirements, demonstrating language proficiency, and passing a citizenship test on the country’s laws, history, and government. The applicant may also be required to take an oath of allegiance. Naturalization confers the same rights and responsibilities as those held by native-born citizens. Requirements and processes vary by country but generally include a period of legal residency, good moral character, and integration into the society of the host country.

Etymology:

The term “naturalization” comes from the Latin word “natura,” meaning “nature,” combined with the suffix “-ization,” indicating a process. It entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally referring to the act of granting citizenship.