naturalization
n.n. the legal process of becoming a citizen of a country. It usually involves living in the country for a certain amount of time and passing a test about the language and history.
n. the legal process by which a foreign national acquires the nationality of another country. Often involves a period of residency, a language proficiency test, and a demonstration of knowledge of the host country's history and government.
The process of naturalization can take several years.
After living in the city for five years and passing the citizenship exam, she applied for naturalization.
The legal framework for naturalization varies significantly between nations, often reflecting historical tensions between the desire for national security and the need for a diverse, skilled workforce.
From Middle French naturalisation.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Last updated May 19, 2026