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Naturalisation

The legal process by which a non-citizen acquires citizenship of a country, typically after a qualifying period of residency and the satisfaction of integration requirements.

Also known as:Naturalization

Definition

The legal process by which a non-citizen acquires citizenship of a country, typically after a qualifying period of residency and the satisfaction of integration requirements.

Naturalisation is the standard pathway from long-term residency to citizenship. Most jurisdictions require an unbroken period of legal residence (commonly 5–10 years), proof of integration (language test, civic knowledge test, or both), a clean criminal record, and renunciation of prior citizenship in some cases.

In the investment-migration context, naturalisation is the end-state of every RBI / Golden Visa pathway. Portugal's five-year window is the shortest in Western Europe; Malta's 12- or 36-month MEIN route is technically a residency-then-naturalisation programme rather than direct CBI.

Naturalisation is distinct from CBI, which grants citizenship directly without a prior residency period.

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Frequently asked questions

Where can I see this term in practice?

Follow the related programme and guide links on this page to see how the term applies to live programmes.

Who can explain how this applies to me?

An adviser can explain how the term affects your application. Book a consultation or send us a message.

What is investment migration?

Investment migration is the legal process of obtaining citizenship or residency in a foreign country through a qualifying financial contribution — such as a government fund donation, real estate purchase, or business investment. Programmes are offered by sovereign governments and are fully legal, internationally recognised, and increasingly common among UHNW and HNW individuals and families.

What is the difference between residency and citizenship by investment?

Residence by investment gives you the right to live in a country; citizenship by investment makes you a national with a passport and full civic rights.

Residence permits usually need renewing and may carry stay requirements, while citizenship is generally permanent. Many families combine the two to cover different needs.

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