Nationality is generally defined as the legal relationship or bond between an individual and a nation or state. It is not necessarily solely determined by the place of birth (where you were born). There are two main principles relevant to nationality:
- Jus soli (right of the soil): Nationality is granted based on being born in the territory of a country. For example, in the United States, most people born on U.S. soil are citizens by birth under this principle.
- Jus sanguinis (right of blood): Nationality is assigned based on the nationality or citizenship of one or both parents, regardless of the place of birth.
Thus, nationality can be based on either place of birth or parentage, depending on the laws of the country. Many countries use a combination of both approaches. Furthermore, nationality is a legal status involving allegiance and protection, while citizenship relates to the rights and duties within the country. In summary, nationality is not necessarily where you were born; it can also come from your parents' nationality or other legal ties to a country. Countries vary in their rules for nationality and citizenship acquisition.