nationality. The most common countries of origin have historically been Morocco, Romania, Poland, the United Kingdom and Italy. It is no longer possible to acquire Belgian nationality through marriage (abolished in 1985) or through the "option" procedure between the ages of 18 and 22 years old (abolished in 2013). Declaration A person at least 18 years old can obtain Belgian nationality through declaration if the person meets one of the following criteria: born in Belgium and resident in Belgium since birth OR; resident in Belgium for five years and satisfies language, social and economic integration requirements OR; resident in Belgium for five years and married to a Belgian citizen for three years and satisfies a social integration requirement OR; resident in Belgium for five years and is handicapped, invalid or retired OR; resident in Belgium for 10 years and satisfies a language requirement and proves integration in their community through any means possible. The declaration should be made according to the procedure outlined in the "Nationality declarations" section below. Naturalisation A person at least 18 years old may apply for naturalisation if the person possesses exceptional merits in the fields of sport, culture, or science, which would contribute to the international influence of the country. No residence period is formally required. The person must also explain why they cannot obtain Belgian nationality by declaration. Naturalisation applications are considered by the Belgian Chamber Committee on Naturalisations. Prior to 1 January 2013, any person at least 18 years old could apply for naturalisation after being resident in Belgium for three years. Children A child under 18 years old automatically acquires Belgian nationality if one of their parents acquires Belgian nationality. Loss of Belgian nationality Belgian nationality can be lost through renunciation, deprivation, residence overseas (satisfying specific criteria) or in certain cases applying to children. Renunciation A Belgian citizen at least 18 years old may renounce their Belgian nationality by making a declaration of renunciation (déclaration de renonciation / verklaring van afstand), but this only takes effect if they hold or are about to acquire another citizenship. Deprivation A Belgian citizen (except if they derive their Belgian nationality from a Belgian parent) can be deprived of their Belgian nationality if the person: acquired their Belgian nationality through fraud or false information (such as having entered into a marriage of convenience) OR; is in serious breach of his or her obligations as a Belgian