Certificate of Naturalization
An official document confirming the acquisition of a country's citizenship through naturalization.
A certificate of naturalization is an official document confirming that a person acquired a country's citizenship not by birth but through naturalization. It is issued by an authorized state body after the entire procedure is successfully completed and serves as legal proof of the new civic status.
Unlike a birth certificate or a confirmation of citizenship by descent, this document records the fact that citizenship was acquired by an adult or minor on one of the recognized grounds — long-term residence, marriage, investment, or other routes established by the legislation of the specific country.
In practice, a certificate of naturalization is often required as the basis for obtaining a passport, registering a place of residence, and confirming status before various authorities. The issuance procedure, format, and further use of the document depend on the country, so the details should be verified against official sources.
“Treat the naturalisation certificate as the root document: the passport, your children's registration, later inheritance matters all trace back to it. Keep the original apart from the passport — replacing it takes far longer than replacing a travel document.”
Sergey Bolotin — Head of LegalFAQ
What can be done if the certificate is lost?
A duplicate or an official confirmation of the record can normally be requested from the authority that issued it. The procedure and supporting requirements depend on the country.
Does the certificate pass rights to children born after naturalization?
A child's entitlement follows the country's rules on citizenship by descent, while the certificate serves as proof of the parent's status when the child is registered. Transmission rules differ from country to country.
Does the certificate need legalization for use abroad?
Generally yes — when presented to authorities in another country it is accompanied by an apostille or consular legalization and a certified translation. Requirements depend on both jurisdictions involved.
Does the certificate expire?
Usually not: it records a completed acquisition of citizenship and needs no renewal, unlike a passport. Replacement after loss or a change of personal details is handled under the issuing country's rules.
Can the certificate be annulled?
Yes, if citizenship is found to have been obtained on the basis of false information, in which case denaturalization procedures apply. The grounds and the right of appeal are set by national law.