What does the process of naturalization allow a foreign national to achieve?

The process of naturalization is specifically designed to allow foreign nationals to become U.S. citizens. Naturalization involves meeting certain criteria set by U.S. immigration laws, which typically include a period of residency, demonstrating good moral character, knowledge of U.S. history and government, and an ability to read, write, and speak English. Once a foreign national successfully completes the process, they gain the rights and privileges that come with citizenship, such as the ability to vote, obtain a U.S. passport, and receive protection from deportation. This distinguishes naturalization from other immigration processes, which may grant different statuses, such as legal permanent residency, but do not provide citizenship.