Acquisition of citizenship by birth: which countries grant citizenship by birth?

Citizenship by birth is also commonly referred to as the "right of the land." This means that a child has the right to obtain the citizenship of the country in which he was born, regardless of his nationality or cultural and linguistic identity. If we analyze the historical aspect of this legal phenomenon, then this principle of acquiring citizenship is especially common among countries where there are significant processes of mixing of different population groups as a result of migration processes. However, most countries do not grant the right to obtain citizenship based on the fact of birth on their territory. Even some of the countries where this possibility existed before have now changed the legislation.

Where did such changes take place?

Australia and New Zealand can be cited as an example of the mentioned states. Previously, it was possible to obtain citizenship by birth there, but later this opportunity became available only under certain conditions. For example, in Australia, in order for a child to obtain citizenship of this country, at the time of its birth, one of the parents must have either the relevant citizenship or a residence permit. Another such option is possible if the child will live in Australia for the first 10 years of his life. As for New Zealand, one of the parents must legally reside in the country or have its citizenship.

We could cite many more such examples, but we will move on to those countries where there is an unconditional right to obtain citizenship by birth.

Where such an opportunity is available today?

Let's start with those states that are especially attractive to many people who are thinking about emigration. These are the USA and Canada. When a child is born on the territory of these countries, he has the right to receive their citizenship. It is also worth mentioning Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, and Cuba. If the country of birth is El Salvador, Jamaica, Guatemala and Mexico, the child can also obtain the citizenship of these countries.

There are other countries where this opportunity is available, but people mostly consider the USA and Canada to be key in this list, because these countries are associated with many opportunities for development, career, successful and socially protected life.

Consultation of a migration law specialist

The full-scale invasion caused many Ukrainians to consider moving. Some have already moved to other countries, which is especially true for residents of front-line cities. Therefore, in such a situation, it is natural to research Ukrainian and foreign migration legislation in order to look for the necessary legal norms specifically for your situation.

By the way, sometimes Ukrainians worry about the fact that the birth of a child during a forced temporary stay abroad will automatically make him a citizen of another country. However, this does not happen. For example, the right to obtain US or Canadian citizenship in such cases is only a right, not an obligation. If the parents want the child to have Ukrainian citizenship, nothing prevents this. So you have no reason to worry.

The migration law practice team of Prikhodko&Partners law firm employs specialists who will provide you with high-quality advice and answers to all questions that are relevant to you.