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US President Donald Trump reignited the conversation by suggesting the repeal of birthright citizenship in the US.
According to the World Population Review, there are as many as 33 countries globally that offer unrestricted birthright citizenship. (Photo: Shutterstock)
Birthright citizenship is a legal principle that automatically grants citizenship to individuals born within a country’s borders. There are two major types of birthright citizenship: ancestry-based citizenship, which is determined by the citizenship of one’s parents, and birthplace-based citizenship, known as jus soli, a Latin term meaning “right of the soil.” In the United States, this principle is protected under the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution, ensuring that any child born on US soil is automatically granted citizenship, regardless of the parents’ immigration status or nationality.
This policy has sparked significant debate worldwide. US President Donald Trump reignited the conversation by suggesting the repeal of birthright citizenship in the US, a country long associated with this right. Trump argued that abolishing birthright citizenship would reduce illegal immigration and prevent the birth of “anchor babies,” a term used to describe children born to non-citizens to secure benefits. However, critics argue that such a change would lead to legal challenges and raise serious ethical concerns.
According to the World Population Review, there are as many as 33 countries globally that offer unrestricted birthright citizenship. Let’s explore some of them and examine the potential benefits of this policy.
Argentina
In Argentina, anyone born on the country’s soil is automatically granted citizenship, with a few exceptions. For instance, children of foreign diplomats or government officials are excluded from this rule. Similarly, those born in the disputed Falkland Islands also qualify for Argentine citizenship.
Paraguay
With Paraguay’s birthright citizenship policy, individuals born in the country enjoy significant advantages, such as free education and healthcare. This policy also plays a role in Paraguay’s strategy to attract foreign investment and promote family-oriented immigration.
Canada
As one of the leading countries offering jus soli, Canada grants automatic citizenship to nearly all individuals born within its borders. Foreign nationals can also obtain Canadian citizenship through naturalisation by meeting residency requirements and demonstrating proficiency in either English or French.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s approach to birthright citizenship ensures that all children born within the country are immediately granted citizenship. The nation’s peaceful political climate and focus on environmental preservation make it a desirable location for expectant parents looking to settle in a stable and welcoming environment.
Peru
In Peru, the constitution guarantees citizenship to anyone born within its territory. Recent amendments have expanded this right, allowing children born outside Peru to Peruvian parents to apply for citizenship at consular offices, provided they were not registered by the age of 18.
Antigua and Barbuda
Since the policy was enacted in 1981, anyone born in Antigua and Barbuda automatically acquires citizenship. In addition to jus soli, the country also offers citizenship through descent and naturalisation, making it an appealing option for families seeking a relatively simple path to citizenship.
Fiji
In Fiji, citizenship is automatically conferred on anyone born within the country’s borders, though this was not the case between 1990 and 1997. During this period, citizenship was granted only to children with at least one Fijian parent. Foreign nationals can become Fijian citizens through naturalisation after living in the country for a minimum of five years.
