Legal Definitions - alien friend

An alien friend is a legal term referring to a person who is not a citizen or national of a particular country, but who is a citizen or national of a foreign country with which the host country is currently at peace. This classification distinguishes them from an "alien enemy," who would be a citizen of a country with which the host nation is at war. Generally, alien friends are afforded most of the same legal rights and protections as citizens, though they typically do not have political rights such as voting or holding public office.

• Example 1: A Canadian tourist visiting the United States.

  Maria, a Canadian citizen, decides to take a vacation to Florida. While she is enjoying her trip, she is legally considered an "alien friend" in the United States. This is because she is not a U.S. citizen, but Canada and the United States are countries that are at peace. As an alien friend, Maria is entitled to the protection of U.S. laws, such as the right to safety and due process, even though she cannot vote in U.S. elections or hold a U.S. passport.

• Example 2: A French student studying in Germany.

  Jean-Luc, a French national, moves to Berlin to pursue a master's degree at a German university. In Germany, Jean-Luc is an "alien" because he is not a German citizen. However, since France and Germany are at peace and maintain strong diplomatic relations, he is classified as an "alien friend." This status allows him to reside, study, and work in Germany under the terms of his visa, and he benefits from the legal protections afforded to residents, distinguishing him from someone from a country with which Germany might be in conflict.

• Example 3: A Japanese business executive working in the United Kingdom.

  Hiroshi, a Japanese citizen and business executive, obtains a work visa to manage the European operations of his company's London office for three years. During his stay, Hiroshi is an "alien friend" in the United Kingdom. He is not a British citizen, but Japan and the UK are countries that are at peace. This legal classification ensures he has access to the British legal system for protection, can enter into contracts, and is subject to UK laws, much like a citizen, while also being subject to the terms of his visa and not possessing voting rights.