If you’re looking to apply for Hungarian citizenship through a parent, grandparent, or other ancestor (called “Hungarian citizenship by descent”), you may have a pathway to Hungary’s rich cultural heritage, central European location, and membership in the European Union. For people with Hungarian roots, citizenship by descent offers a way to reclaim nationality and enjoy the benefits of an EU passport. Hungary’s citizenship law is among the more flexible in Europe, allowing many descendants abroad to apply — but the process is complicated. This guide outlines Hungarian citizenship, who it’s for, and how to get started.
Why Hungarian Citizenship by Descent Matters
When you gain citizenship in one EU member country, you receive special rights and privileges across all 27 members of the EU. As a Hungarian citizen, you could gain:
- Freedom to live and work in all EU member states.
- Access to EU healthcare and education.
- Visa-free travel to over 180 countries.
- Business and property rights across Europe.
For the large Hungarian diaspora in the United States, Canada, South America, and neighboring countries, reclaiming citizenship is both a personal and practical opportunity for family reunification and deeper connection to family history.
Who Qualifies for Hungarian Citizenship by Descent?
Citizenship by Parentage
If either of your parents was a Hungarian citizen at the time of your birth, you are entitled to Hungarian citizenship by descent, regardless of birthplace, under Hungarian citizenship law.
Citizenship Through Grandparents or Earlier Ancestors
Hungarian law allows recognition for those with Hungarian descent beyond parents. If you can prove lineage and meet additional criteria, you may qualify under the principle of jus sanguinis (citizenship by bloodline).
Language Requirement
Applicants applying through ancestry beyond parents are usually required to demonstrate basic Hungarian language proficiency. This is tested in an interview with consular officers at the Hungarian consulate or embassy.
Historical Context
- 1867–1918: Hungary was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Citizenship records from this era are relevant.
- Post-World War I: Borders shifted dramatically. Many ethnic Hungarians ended up outside Hungary.
- 2011 Amendment: Simplified the process for people of Hungarian origin, especially from neighboring countries, and introduced language testing.
This history explains why so many people abroad may qualify, but also why careful documentation is essential.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
You can find out if you’re eligible for Hungarian citizenship by descent by completing an early assessment or analysis.
We have several service packages to help you do this, so find out if you’re eligible by signing up now.
Step 2: Document Lineage
Collect birth, marriage, and death certificates connecting you to your Hungarian ancestor. An ancestor’s birth certificate from Hungary or the former Austro-Hungarian territories is crucial. These vital records are the foundation of your citizenship application.
Step 3: Confirm Nationality
Request records from Hungarian archives or registries proving your ancestor’s citizenship or ethnicity. This serves as official citizenship verification under Hungarian citizenship law.
Step 4: Prepare Your Application
Applications are filed at:
Step 5: Language Interview
Processing usually takes 12–18 months. This can include requests for additional documents or meetings with a representative of the Hungarian government, but doesn’t always. Once your citizenship application has been processed and approved, you may apply for a citizenship certificate and for a Hungarian passport.
Step 6: Processing and Recognition
Processing usually takes 12–18 months. This can include requests for additional documents or meetings with a representative of the Hungarian government, but doesn’t always. Once your application has been processed and approved, you may apply for a Hungarian passport.
Required Documents for Hungarian Citizenship by Descent Applicants
Document requirements can sometimes vary at the discretion of the Hungarian government, but nearly all applications will need to include supporting documents that prove your connection to your Hungarian ancestor. These include:
- Your long-form birth certificate.
- Parents’ and grandparents’ birth and marriage certificates.
- Ancestor’s Hungarian birth certificate or registry extract.
- Proof of Hungarian nationality or ethnicity.
- Applicant’s passport and proof of residence.
- Police clearance certificate.
- Certified Hungarian translations and apostilles.
For a more comprehensive list of the number of required documents you’ll need for Hungarian citizenship through an ancestor, check out our required documents guide here.
Dual Citizenship Rules
Hungary allows second citizenship, meaning you may retain your original nationality while gaining Hungarian citizenship, and even hold a passport for both countries. There are no restrictive residency requirements for citizenship by descent, although establishing ties in Hungary can strengthen your connection to Hungarian society.
Common Challenges
- Proving Ancestry: This can prove difficult in some cases, as records from the Austro-Hungarian era may be scattered across multiple countries.
- Language Requirement: Hungary has a language requirement to claim citizenship. Many applicants underestimate the need to speak Hungarian at a conversational level.
- Processing Time: Applications may take longer if documents are incomplete or translations are inconsistent. The process can be lengthy and unpredictable.
Benefits of Hungarian Citizenship
Having a passport from Hungary opens up a new world of options — and not just in Hungary, but in any country that’s a member of the EU. Some of the most popular benefits of EU citizenship include:
- Visa-Free EU Travel: Live, work, and travel freely across the EU.
- Cultural Reconnection: Citizenship acknowledges ties to Hungarian heritage.
- Economic Opportunity: Access to jobs, business opportunities, and investment options in Hungary and beyond.
- Security for Family: Citizenship can even pass to your children. Learn more about how children can get Hungarian citizenship here.
FAQs
Do I need to speak Hungarian?
Yes, most applicants beyond the first generation must demonstrate basic language ability.
Can grandchildren apply for Hungarian citizenship by descent?
Yes, if they can prove ancestry and pass the language interview.
What if my ancestor lived in former Hungarian territories now outside Hungary?
You may still qualify if records confirm Hungarian nationality or ethnicity. The best way to see if you qualify is to sign up for an eligibility package
How long does the process take?
Typically 12–18 months, depending on the complexity of your case.
Can I apply from abroad?
Yes, applications may be filed at Hungarian embassies and consulates. You don’t have to live in Hungary to apply.
Lineage Citizenship in Hungary
Hungary’s citizenship by descent law is fairly inclusive, designed to reconnect with its global diaspora. With proper documentation and a willingness to demonstrate basic Hungarian, many descendants can successfully reclaim citizenship.
Not sure if you qualify for Hungarian citizenship by descent? We help you determine your eligibility. Start by signing up now.