Naturalization
In short
Naturalisation is the legal process where a person who was not born in a country applies to become a citizen of that country. It usually requires an official application and approval from the government.
In plain words
It is a way for foreigners to gain full rights in a new country. Instead of being born there, they follow specific rules and laws to join the nation officially.
A simple example
A person moves to the United Kingdom from another country and lives there for several years. After meeting all the legal requirements, they apply to become a British citizen.
Why it matters
It allows people to gain important rights like voting and holding certain jobs. It also helps people feel a permanent sense of belonging to their new home.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse it with repatriation, which is the process of returning to one's original country.