citizenships

Citizenship is a legal status linking an individual to a state. It typically confers a set of civil, political, and social rights, such as the protection of the state, access to public services, and the possibility of participating in elections, as well as duties, including obedience to laws and fidelity to the state.

Citizenship can be acquired by birth within a territory (jus soli); by descent from a citizen parent (jus sanguinis); or by naturalization, which usually requires residence, language or civic tests, and an oath or declaration. Some countries also grant citizenship through marriage, adoption, or special programs.

Citizenship can be lost or suspended in some circumstances, such as voluntary renunciation, deprivation or loss due to fraud; in many places, acquiring another citizenship affects existing status. Many states permit dual or multiple citizenship, while others restrict or prohibit it.

Distinct from mere residency, citizenship provides enduring legal ties to the state and typically includes passport rights and consular protection abroad. It also entails duties like paying taxes in the state of citizenship and, in some jurisdictions, mandatory military or civil service. Rights and obligations vary by country.

Some people are stateless, lacking recognized citizenship, often due to gaps in the law or conflict. International law recognizes the right to a nationality, and organizations work to reduce statelessness. In recent decades, citizenship-by-investment programs have emerged, attracting applicants in exchange for economic contributions, though they are controversial.