Croatian citizenship by descent is possible for people with Croatian heritage whose ancestors may have left the country in the 20th century to seek peace abroad. Depending on your ancestors’ situations, your situation, and certain criteria outlined in the Croatian Citizenship Act and the Law on Croatian Citizenship, you could qualify for Croatian citizenship. What’s more, earning citizenship in the Republic of Croatia – an EU nation – automatically grants you EU citizenship and its associated benefits.
If you think you may be eligible for Croatian citizenship by descent or have already started the application for acquiring Croatian citizenship, you’ve probably encountered some questions along the way. This guide breaks down answers to commonly asked questions about applying, eligibility, document requirements, and more.
In most cases, applicants work with the Republic of Croatia’s consulates or Ministry of the Interior to verify eligibility, prepare documents, and submit the necessary forms for review.
Common Questions – Croatian Ancestry Citizenship
Who is eligible for Croatian citizenship by descent?
Certain children of Croatian citizens, grandchildren of Croatian citizens, and more distant descendants who can prove their family connection and place in the “Croatian nation” qualify for ancestral citizenship in Croatia. For a more detailed breakdown of requirements, see our complete guide to Croatian citizenship by descent and the relevant provisions of the Law on Croatian Citizenship.
What is the most distant ancestor for eligibility?
Croatian citizenship law has broad inclusions for “descendants.” Children may automatically qualify if both parents were Croatian citizens when they were born, and a descendant can also qualify if their grandparent held Croatian citizenship with proven lineage.
But more distant ancestors – like great-grandparents and beyond – have further requirements. For instance, descendants in these cases must prove they belong to the “Croatian nation” through participation in Croatian culture, such as membership in Croatian cultural associations, churches, heritage organizations, etc. The further back you go in your lineage, the more you have to substantiate in your application, as outlined in the Law on Croatian Citizenship.
Can I apply for Croatian citizenship by descent from abroad?
Yes. Applicants applying for ancestral citizenship from abroad can direct their Application form through the Croatian diplomatic mission (embassy or Croatian consulate) in their jurisdiction. This process is recognized and coordinated by the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Croatia.
Can I have dual citizenship?
Yes. Croatia allows people to keep their current nationality while gaining Croatian citizenship. This is beneficial because it allows you to acquire European Union citizenship rights without giving up your current citizenship rights. Croatia follows the jus sanguinis principle, which means citizenship is primarily passed down through ancestry. This rule is a cornerstone of the application for acquiring Croatian citizenship in the Republic of Croatia.
What paperwork do I need to submit?
Croatian citizenship by descent applications must be accompanied by the following documents:
– The applicant’s long-form birth certificate.
– The applicant’s parents’ and grandparents’ birth and marriage certificates.
– Police clearance certificate.
– Passport and proof of residence.
– Proof of the ancestor’s Croatian citizenship (via passport, ID, or registry entry).
Note that exact documentation checklists vary based on the applicant’s case for Croatian descent and the Application form used to apply. All required Croatian documents should be complete, translated, and certified according to the standards of the Ministry of the Interior.
Do I need to translate my documents?
Yes. Any foreign documents you submit with your application for acquiring Croatian citizenship must be officially translated into the Croatian language and legalized by apostille or consular certification. Fees are associated and vary but it typically costs HRK 100-200 (approximately €13-€27) per page. Ensure that the translation and legalization meet the requirements outlined by the Ministry of the Interior.
Is there a fee for the certificate of citizenship?
Yes. The Certificate of Croatian citizenship has an issuing fee of HRK 200 (approximately €27). The Ministry of the Interior oversees the issuance, verification, and recording of citizenship certificates within the official Register of Citizens.
What if my application is denied?
If your citizenship application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Appeals are governed by the Croatian Administrative Procedure Act and certain provisions in the Law on Croatian Citizenship Act. Initial appeals must be submitted within 15 days of receiving the decision.
Summary
Whether you’re seeking Croatian citizenship in hopes of reclaiming your historical connection to the country or to reconnect with your family connection, pathways exist for descendants. Thanks to jus sanguinis, your ancestral link can open the door to recognition within the Republic of Croatia and full participation in the European Union.
If you’d like to kickstart your journey to reclaiming Croatian citizenship, try one of our service packages. Our professionals guide you through the process of applying, step by step. We recommend starting with our $250 full service guide.
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