A Commonwealth citizen is a citizen of a Commonwealth of Nations member state. While most Commonwealth countries do not distinguish between them and the citizens of other countries, some grant limited rights and privileges. For example, in 14 Commonwealth countries, resident Commonwealth citizens are eligible to vote in elections. The status is most significant in the United Kingdom, where they are not considered foreign nationals under British law. They may be eligible to vote in elections, stand for public office, and access certain public services, subject to their right of abode (e.g. indefinite leave to remain).
In addition to voting and residency rights, in certain situations, Commonwealth citizens may receive consular assistance from fellow Commonwealth countries. Notably, they are entitled to emergency assistance from British embassies and consulates when in a non-Commonwealth country, where their own government has no diplomatic representation.