Submitting an application for Greek citizenship by descent is a process that entails specific documentation to prove lineage. Furthermore, only certain individuals are eligible based on Greece’s Nationality Code and must apply through specific competent authorities, depending on whether you live in Greece or abroad.
Along the way, applicants commonly have questions about eligibility and applying. This guide breaks down answers to frequently asked questions about Greek citizenship by descent.
Common Questions
Who qualifies for Greek ancestry citizenship?
There are two ways to qualify:
– Greek expats who are adults and have Greek national conscience (Article 10 of Greek Nationality Law).
– Greek expats who are adults, nationals of a country of the former Soviet Union, residents of Greece or one of the successor countries of the former Soviet Union, and cannot establish Greek citizenship based on the Ankara and Lausanne Treaties (Article 15 of Greek Nationality Law).
Does my child qualify for Greek citizenship by descent?
Your child may qualify via birthright (legally known as “jus sanguinis”) or via documented proof of an unbroken Greek ancestral connection. Further, certain Greek expats and their descendants can acquire Greek citizenship through naturalization – a stipulation in response to the history of Greek citizen displacement.
What is Greek “conscience” and how do I prove it?
When applying for Greek citizenship by descent, authorities will be looking to see that applicants have shown their “Greek conscience,” which refers to how well you know Greek history, geography, culture, and the Greek language. You must show a vested interest in these topics and a willingness to learn the Greek language to prove a genuine interest in acquiring Greek nationality.
What documents do I need?
If applying based on Article 10 of the Nationality Code, applicants must provide:
– Declaration of naturalization
– Exact copy of passport
– Exact copy of other proof of identity
– Criminal record certificate (issued by foreign authorities)
– Documents supporting Greek citizenship origin (such as birth or marriage certificates)
– Marriage certificate from a foreign authority
– Birth certificate of minor children
– One ID-standard color photo
If applying based on Article 15 of the Nationality Code, applicants must provide:
– Declaration of naturalization
– Two recent photos
– Exact copy of valid foreign passport with official translation
– Original birth certificate, legally authenticated and officially translated
– Original marriage certificate of parents, legally authenticated and officially translated
– Original birth certificate of ancestor from whom you derive Greek citizenship descent, legally authenticated and officially translated
– Original criminal record certificate from a foreign authority, legally authenticated and officially translated
– Solemn declaration, certified authentic, regarding any Hellenization of names and surnames
– Sworn statement, certified authentic, stating existence of any relative who has acquired Greek citizenship and the relevant decision
– Certificate of permanent residence from a foreign authority, authenticated and officially translated.
How far back can lineage citizenship go?
In Greece, there is technically no restriction on the most distant ancestor to qualify a descendant for lineage Greek citizenship. However, you must be able to document direct and unbroken lineage to the ancestor in question, which may become increasingly difficult the further back you go in the line.
Do children need to be born in Greece for birthright?
No. To qualify for birthright Greek citizenship or “jus sanguinis,” a child does not need to have been born in Greece.
Can a US citizen have dual citizenship with Greece?
Yes. The United States allows its citizens to hold dual nationality, and Greece also recognizes dual citizenship. This means a US citizen who qualifies for Greek citizenship by descent can legally maintain both a US and a Greek passport. Holding both offers advantages such as the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the European Union while still retaining all rights of US citizenship.
Where do I submit my application?
If applying from within Greece, applications go through the relevant Decentralized Administration office nearest to your residence. If applying from abroad, applications go through the Greek diplomatic mission – consulates and embassies – in your jurisdiction.
Next Steps
To learn more about who qualifies for Greek citizenship by descent, you can explore our complete guides to eligibility, documentation, and more.
If you’re ready to get started on your pathway to dual citizenship, try one of our service packages. Our team of citizenship experts will guide you every step of the way to securing Greek citizenship and building the benefits of dual citizenship with Greece.
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