Difference Between Citizenship and Nationality

The difference between citizenship and nationality marks an important distinction in both the terms. Often used interchangeably, both terms have different meanings. Nationality refers to the membership one inherits from their parents, while citizenship is a legal status provided by a nation-state. Both the terms define the connection of an individual with a country, however citizenship can be given through legal processes like registration and naturalisation, not alone birth. Despite their similarities, nationality and citizenship carry unique legal implications and cultural significance. This article examines their differences, emphasizing how they define individuals’ connections to a country and their associated rights and responsibilities.

What is Nationality? 

Nationality is a legal bond between a specific country and nation. It represents the membership of a person with a particular nation, determined by birth, descent and naturalisation. Nationality gives a person their political identity within a country and gives certain rights and duties connected to becoming a member of that nation. 

What is Citizenship? 

Citizenship refers to the legal status that allows a person to fully become a member of a specific country and nation. The subset of nationality portrays the formal and active relationship in an individual and the state. Citizenship also refers to particular privileges, rights and responsibilities within a political community. It focuses on active participation and responsibilities of a person of the country. Used interchangeably, the difference between nationality and citizenship is important in both political and legal context. 

Nationality and Citizenship Key Difference 

While “Nationality” represents where an individual is born, “Citizenship” shows the legal requirements and the political status that recognises an individual as a citizen. The differences between Nationality and Citizenship are:

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