What is the difference between a "citizen" and a "national?"

[bobweaver]

For example, "32 Chinese nationals were discovered in a cargo container..."

Am I a "U.S. citizen," or am I an "American national?"

[tjdee]

1. They're communist?

I think that's why?

In the way that Britons are subjects and not citizens?

[bobweaver]

2. They also frequently refer to "Mexican nationals" being deported

[Historic NY]

3. Interchangable term........

National means citizen of......so in a way you would be a US national.

[murray hill farm]

4. A national would be one born in a country..

a citizen can be one who was either born in the country..or who was born in another country, but attained citizenship in the country. So..one could attain citizenship..but would still not be considered a national..just a citizen. When born in the country, one would be both citizen and national.

[bobweaver]

5. OK, thanks.