Czech Citizenship Through Ancestry
Marking the Westernmost edge of Eastern Europe, The Czech Republic blends medieval charm with modern opportunity. Known for its castles, cafés, and bohemian spirit, it also holds deep roots for millions with Czech or Czechoslovak ancestry across the world.
If your parent, grandparent, or even earlier ancestor was once a Czech or Czechoslovak citizen, you may be eligible to reclaim that citizenship.
Eligible Generations
Up to your great-grandparents
Travel Required?
No (apply via consulate)
Ways to Apply
2 ways
Language requirement?
No
Claim your place in the Czech story (and the EU).
Reclaiming citizenship gives you the opportunity to restore your family’s connection and unlock full EU rights to travel, live, and work across 27 countries.
Why Does Czech Republic Offer Citizenship by Descent?
Throughout the 20th century, many Czech and Czechoslovak families lost their citizenship due to emigration, shifting borders, or the dissolution of Czechoslovakia itself. In response, the Czech Republic created a legal pathway to help descendants restore that connection, acknowledging that citizenship was often lost for reasons beyond an individual’s control.
This effort reflects the country’s commitment to honoring its global diaspora and repairing the breaks in citizenship caused by history.
Live, work, and study in any of the 27 countries throughout the European Union with no restrictions.
Who Can Apply?
You might qualify if you can answer yes to one of the following:
- Was your parent or grandparent a Czech or Czechoslovak citizen before 2014?
- Was your parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, or earlier ancestor a citizen of the Czech and Slovak Federal Republic before 1992?
Ready to reclaim your history? Your first step is to take the assessment:
Want to find if you are eligible for Czech Citizenship?
Simple 3-step process to discover your eligibility
1. Tell us (or your genealogist) about your family
Share your family details. Enter them yourself or connect with a genealogist for help.
2. We analyze with AI + experts
AI processes fast. Experts ensure your case is as accurate as possible.
3. Receive your report
Get your eligibility analysis. Follow the steps. Start your path to citizenship.
What You'll Receive
A comprehensive eligibility report tailored to your family history
Your Eligibility Report Includes:
- Assessment of all EU countries based on your lineage
- Clear eligibility decision for each country
- Detailed reasoning and relevant laws explained
- Specific next steps and requirements
Eligible for dual citizenship? We can help you achieve it
If you find out you are eligible for dual citizenship with our report, we offer additional services to assist with document collection and application processing
Your guide to Czech Citizenship
We cover essential information regarding applying for and achieving EU nationality through ancestry. This blog also explores relocation resources, citizenship programs outside of the EU, and more.
"The idea of applying for Hungarian citizenship always felt overwhelming—until I found Citizenship.EU. They helped me figure out if I could qualify through my great-grandfather and put me in touch with professionals who handled everything".
James Nagy
Chicago, USA
"My grandfather was born in Sicily, and I always dreamed of reclaiming that part of my identity. I had no idea where to start or whether I even qualified. Citizenship.EU made the process so much less intimidating".
Elena G
New York, USA
“I knew my grandmother was born in County Mayo, but I wasn’t sure if I could actually get Irish citizenship. Citizenship.EU walked me through the whole eligibility check. I received my Irish citizenship certificate last month and my passport is on the way”!
Maeve O’Sullivan
New Hampshire, USA
Get the Czech citizenship guide
Unlock detailed information on timelines, required documents, and legal pathways all in one place.
Frequently asked questions
How do I claim Czech citizenship by descent?
To claim Czech citizenship by descent, you must submit a declaration at a Czech consulate or local authority. This requires proving your ancestry and your ancestor’s citizenship status. Citizenship.EU can guide you through every step, from eligibility screening and gathering documentation to preparing and submitting your application to the appropriate Czech authorities. They also connect you with legal professionals who specialize in Czech nationality law.
How far back can you get Czech citizenship by descent?
Currently, eligibility extends to those with at least one Czech or Czechoslovak parent or grandparent. However, legislation is being considered to expand access to those with a Czech great-grandparent. Citizenship.EU monitors changes in the law closely and can advise you on whether you qualify now—or help you prepare in anticipation of future eligibility if the law changes.
Did the Czech citizenship by descent law change?
Yes. In 2019, the Czech Republic amended its citizenship law to make it easier for descendants of former Czech or Czechoslovak citizens to apply—even if their ancestors lost citizenship. Citizenship.EU provides updated legal insights and resources to ensure your application meets the latest requirements and takes advantage of current reforms.
Does the Czech Republic allow dual citizenship?
Since 2014, the Czech Republic has allowed dual and multiple citizenships. This means you can obtain Czech citizenship without renouncing your current nationality. Citizenship.EU can help you understand how this applies to your specific case and what documentation you’ll need to meet both Czech and foreign legal standards.
How can Citizenship.EU help me get Czech citizenship by descent?
Citizenship.EU offers a comprehensive support system, starting with eligibility assessment. Our platform treamline the entire process and maximize your chances of success.
Can I claim Czech citizenship through a great-grandparent?
As of now, eligibility based on a great-grandparent is not guaranteed under Czech law, but proposed legislation may soon change this. Citizenship.EU stays on top of legislative developments and can help you prepare a proactive case or notify you when new pathways become available for more distant descendants.
Czech citizenship by descent Jewish
Yes, though there can be complications for those whose ancestors lost citizenship due to fleeing persecution during WWII. Citizenship.EU collaborates with legal experts who specialize in restitution and Jewish heritage claims, helping you navigate sensitive historical circumstances and gather the right documentation to support your claim.
Can I pass Czech citizenship to my children if I acquire it by descent?
Yes, and Citizenship.EU can advise you on how and when to register your children, whether they are minors or adults. They’ll help you assess what documents are needed and how to preserve your family’s eligibility across generations.
Start with your past.
Start building your future.
Your family immigrated from Europe for more opportunities. Now, their story might help you do exactly the same thing. Browse by country to learn whether your family history might qualify you for dual citizenship.
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Portuguese
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Romanian
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Still have questions? Let’s talk
Have a specific question about your case, documents, or eligibility? We’d love to hear it and it might even help us shape new resources.
