Citizenship by Naturalization
The path from permanent residency to full citizenship. Learn the requirements, timelines, and legal processes for 2026.
What Is Naturalization?
Citizenship by naturalization is the legal process by which a non-citizen acquires the citizenship of a country. Unlike birthright citizenship, it is voluntary and typically requires the applicant to hold permanent residency for a specific period (usually 3–10 years), demonstrate good character, and pass language or civics tests. It is the most common way for immigrants to become full citizens.
Common Requirements
- Legal permanent residency for 3-10 years
- Physical presence in the country
- Clean criminal record (Good Moral Character)
- Proficiency in the national language
- Knowledge of history/civics (Citizenship Test)
- Oath of Allegiance
Naturalization Timelines by Country
South Africa
South Africa grants citizenship after 5 years of permanent residence, requiring proficiency in one of the official languages, good character, and intent to continue residing in the country.
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Nigeria
Nigeria offers citizenship through naturalization after 15 years of residency, with conditions including good character, cultural assimilation, and intent to remain in Nigeria.
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Japan
Japan requires 5 years of continuous residence for naturalization, along with renunciation of previous citizenship, good conduct, financial stability, and proficiency in the Japanese language.
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India
India grants citizenship through naturalization after 12 years of residence (11 years preceding application and 1 year immediately before), requiring good character, knowledge of a local language, and intent to reside in India.
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France
France requires 5 years of residence for naturalization, reduced to 2 years for graduates of French universities. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in French, integration into society, and good character.
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Poland
Poland grants citizenship after 3 years of continuous residence with a permanent residence permit, requiring a stable income, knowledge of Polish, and a clean criminal record.
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Mexico
Mexico offers citizenship after 5 years of residency, requiring proficiency in Spanish, understanding of Mexican history and culture, and good character.
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Canada
Canada grants citizenship after 3 out of the last 5 years of physical presence, requiring proficiency in English or French, knowledge of Canadian rights and responsibilities, and no serious criminal history.
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Argentina
Argentina offers naturalization after 2 years of continuous residence, requiring a stable income, good conduct, and intent to reside in Argentina.
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Brazil
Brazil requires 4 years of permanent residency for naturalization, which can be reduced to 1 year under specific conditions. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in Portuguese, good conduct, and financial stability.
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New Zealand
New Zealand grants citizenship after 5 years of permanent residence, requiring proficiency in English, good character, and intent to continue residing in the country.
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Fiji
Fiji offers citizenship after 5 years of residency, requiring good character, knowledge of the responsibilities of citizenship, and intent to reside in Fiji.
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More Details
Explore the full country list for citizenship by naturalization options.
View Process →Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep my original citizenship?
It depends on both countries. Many (like US, UK, Canada) allow dual citizenship, while others (like Japan, Singapore) generally require you to renounce your previous nationality upon naturalization.
How long does the application take?
Processing times vary significantly, from 6 months in some streamlined systems to over 2 years in countries with high backlogs.