The Department of Citizenship and Naturalization is a vital government agency within the Turks and Caicos Islands that is responsible for creating and managing the vital records of all residents, registering all life events, and providing secure identity documents in accordance with the laws and ordinances of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The primary objective of the Department of Citizenship and Naturalization is to ensure the accurate recording and safekeeping of essential personal information pertaining to individuals residing in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The department handles a wide range of services that are crucial for maintaining an efficient and well-documented society.

The key services provided by the Department of Citizenship and Naturalization include:

The Department facilitates the issuance of Permanent Resident Certificates to foreign nationals who have been granted permission to reside and work in the Turks and Caicos Islands. This service ensures that individuals with permanent residency status can legally live and contribute to the islands' social and economic development.

The Department of Citizenship and Naturalization oversees the naturalization process for individuals who wish to become citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through a well-defined procedure, the department assesses and grants citizenship to eligible applicants, thereby fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion within the local community.

As a British Overseas Territory, the Turks and Caicos Islands are under the sovereignty of the United Kingdom. The department manages the registration of individuals as British Overseas Territory Citizens (BOTC), ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. This registration process acknowledges the special constitutional status of the islands and grants individuals certain rights and privileges associated with BOTC citizenship.

The Department of Citizenship and Naturalization is responsible for issuing and managing the status of individuals as Turks and Caicos Islander (TCI). This status recognizes individuals who are native-born or have acquired the right to be considered Turks and Caicos Islanders, granting them certain rights and privileges within the islands.

The department plays a crucial role in the issuance of passports, serving as the authority responsible for verifying identities, processing applications, and issuing secure travel documents. The passports issued by the Department of Citizenship and Naturalization enable residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands to travel internationally and serve as a reliable proof of identity.

In carrying out its duties, the Department of Citizenship and Naturalization adheres to strict standards of confidentiality, security, and accuracy. It operates in accordance with the Turks and Caicos Islands laws and ordinances, ensuring the proper recording, protection, and accessibility of vital records and personal information.

By diligently fulfilling its mandate, the Department of Citizenship and Naturalization contributes to the overall well-being and governance of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The services provided by the department not only facilitate the legal and administrative requirements of residents but also promote a sense of identity, security, and belonging within the local community.

Through its commitment to efficient service delivery and adherence to legal frameworks, the Department of Citizenship and Naturalization plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of vital records, promoting national security, and enabling the lawful movement of individuals within and beyond the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands.