Citizenship by Descent: How to Reclaim Your Heritage and Start a New Life Abroad
Through citizenship by descent, reclaim your Italian heritage and gain a second passport.
Are you exploring ways to reclaim your heritage through citizenship by descent? Many countries offer pathways to citizenship based on ancestry, allowing you to connect with your roots while gaining the benefits of a second passport. Whether you want to live, work, or travel freely, this process offers a unique opportunity to start a new chapter in the country of your forebears.
In this guide, we’ll explore what citizenship by descent is, the countries that offer it, the time it takes, and how you can leverage this to reclaim your heritage.
What Is Citizenship by Descent?
Citizenship by descent (also called jus sanguinis) refers to the legal process that allows individuals to acquire citizenship based on their ancestral lineage. If your parent, grandparent, or even great-grandparent was a citizen of a particular country, you may be eligible to apply for citizenship there. This is a popular option for people seeking to reconnect with their roots while gaining a second passport and the privileges that come with it.
By applying for citizenship through descent, you could gain:
Dual citizenship, allowing you to maintain your current nationality while adding a second one.
European Union citizenship, which offers freedom to live, work, and travel across all EU member states.
Access to cultural and economic opportunities in your ancestral homeland.
Top Countries Offering Citizenship by Descent
Numerous countries offer citizenship by descent programs, making it possible to reclaim your family’s heritage. Below are the most popular countries for those seeking citizenship through ancestry:
1. Italy
The Colosseum in Rome, an iconic structure representing Italy’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Italy has one of the most inclusive citizenship by descent programs, allowing applicants to trace their lineage back through generations as long as the ancestor never renounced Italian citizenship.
Processing Time: 1–3 years
Requirements: Proof of Italian ancestry and records showing that your ancestor did not renounce citizenship.
2. Ireland
A stunning view of the Irish countryside along the coastline, highlighting the natural beauty of Ireland’s rural regions.
Irish citizenship by descent is available to individuals with an Irish grandparent. This straightforward process also grants access to EU benefits.
Processing Time: 6–12 months
Requirements: Proof of Irish grandparent, birth certificates, and other documentation.
3. Spain
The cliffside town of Ronda, Spain, with its iconic whitewashed houses and breathtaking views of the Andalusian countryside
Spain offers citizenship by descent for those with Spanish ancestry, with special provisions for Sephardic Jews and Civil War refugees.
Processing Time: 1–2 years
Requirements: Proof of Spanish descent and relevant historical records.
4. Portugal
The stunning cliffs of Sagres, a coastal town in Portugal’s Algarve, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Portugal provides citizenship for descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled during the 15th century, as well as for those with a Portuguese grandparent.
Processing Time: 1–2 years
Requirements: Proof of Portuguese ancestry and historical documentation.
5. Poland
Kraków’s Main Market Square, a bustling hub of culture and history in Poland’s Old Town.
Poland offers citizenship to individuals with Polish ancestry, though the process may be more time-intensive due to stringent documentation requirements.
Processing Time: Up to 3 years
Requirements: Proof of Polish citizenship retention through generations.
6. Greece
The ancient ruins of Athens with the Acropolis in the background, a symbol of Greece’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
Greek citizenship is available to those with at least one Greek grandparent, with a process that requires comprehensive family records.
Processing Time: 1–2 years
Requirements: Proof of Greek ancestry and documents such as birth certificates.
Requirements for Citizenship by Descent
To apply for citizenship by descent, you’ll need to meet specific eligibility criteria depending on the country. While requirements vary, some general steps include:
Proof of Lineage: Birth, marriage, and death certificates proving your direct connection to your ancestor.
No Renunciation of Citizenship: In most cases, your ancestor must not have formally renounced their citizenship.
Current Citizenship Documentation: Your passport and proof of residency or current citizenship are typically required.
Language Proficiency: Some countries require basic language skills as part of the application process.
How Long Does It Take to Get Citizenship by Descent?
The timeline for obtaining citizenship by descent can vary widely depending on the country, documentation requirements, and processing times. Here’s an overview of how long it takes in the most popular countries:
Ireland and Portugal: 6–12 months for well-documented applications.
Italy, Spain, and Greece: 1–3 years, depending on the local consulate and the complexity of your application.
Poland: Up to 3 years due to stricter verification processes.
Why Citizenship by Descent Matters
For many, obtaining citizenship by descent is more than a legal process—it’s a way to reconnect with their family’s cultural heritage, gain a sense of belonging, and embrace a new lifestyle. Here’s why pursuing ancestral citizenship matters:
Personal Fulfillment: Deepen your connection to your family’s roots and culture, learning about traditions and history firsthand.
Expanded Opportunities: With a second passport, you gain access to education, employment, healthcare, and real estate investment opportunities in a new country.
Freedom of Movement: If you obtain citizenship in an EU country, you’ll have the freedom to live, work, and travel throughout the European Union.
Starting Your Citizenship by Descent Journey
If you’re ready to start your journey toward citizenship by descent, here’s how you can begin:
Research Eligibility: Determine which country you’re eligible to apply for based on your family’s ancestry.
Collect Documentation: Gather birth certificates, marriage records, and other legal documents that trace your lineage.
Consult with Experts: Consider hiring an immigration attorney or consultant who specializes in citizenship by descent to guide you through the process.
Submit Your Application: Once your documents are in order, submit your application to the relevant consulate or government authority.
Citizenship by descent is a powerful way to reclaim your family’s heritage and open doors to a new world of opportunities. Whether for personal, cultural, or professional reasons, this process allows you to honor your roots while embracing a new life. Citizenship by descent offers a unique path to reconnect with your heritage and gain the benefits of a second passport. Whether it’s for access to the EU, a fresh start in your ancestral homeland, or a way to honor your family’s history, the journey is both meaningful and rewarding.
If you’re considering this opportunity, now is the perfect time to begin the process and unlock the benefits of citizenship by descent.