Greek Citizenship Through Ancestry
Greece is one of the cradles of Western culture, and its ancient temples and community-driven culture hold a special place in the hearts of millions around the world.
Whether you’re motivated by legacy, lifestyle, or legal access to Europe, Greek citizenship offers a tangible way to connect with your history and make a change for your future.
If your parent or grandparent was born in Greece, you may be eligible to reclaim Greek citizenship by descent, and honor your unique and ancient heritage.
Eligible Generations
Up to grandparents
Travel Required?
No (apply via consulate)
Ways to Apply
2 ways
Language requirement?
No
Your roots run deep. Your rights can, too.
Greek citizenship is more than a legal status. It’s a recognition of your family’s place in a rich national story–and a gateway to living, working, and studying across 27 EU countries.
Why Does Greece Offer Citizenship by Descent?
Today, an estimated 10 million Greeks live in the country, while another 7 million people of Greek descent live around the world.
To honor that enduring bond, Greece offers a legal pathway for descendants to reclaim citizenship. This reflects the country’s belief that Greek identity is more than a matter of geography, but a matter of lineage, memory, and belonging.
Live, work, and study in any of the 27 countries throughout the European Union with no restrictions.
Who Can Apply?
You may qualify if you can answer yes to one of the following:
- Do you have at least one parent who was a Greek citizen?
- Do you have a grandparent who was born in Greece?
Want to know if you’re eligible? Take the assessment to find out:
Want to find if you are eligible for Greek 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 Greek 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.
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Chicago, USA
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New York, USA
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New Hampshire, USA
Get the Greek citizenship guide
Unlock detailed information on timelines, required documents, and legal pathways all in one place.
Frequently asked questions
Does Greece allow dual and multiple citizenships?
Yes. Greece allows both dual and multiple citizenships, which means you are not required to renounce your current citizenship(s) when acquiring Greek citizenship. Here’s how it works:
- Greece considers you a Greek citizen at all times, whether you're inside or outside the country.
- However, while you're in the country of your other citizenship, Greek authorities will not treat you as a Greek citizen there.
How do I apply for Greek citizenship by descent?
To apply for Greek citizenship by descent, you must submit an application to the Greek consulate in your country of residence or directly to the Greek Ministry of Interior. The process involves proving your lineage to a Greek ancestor through official documents. Once your application is approved, you will be registered in a Greek municipality, which is a prerequisite for obtaining a Greek passport.
Can I obtain Greek citizenship through my great-grandparents?
Yes, it is possible to claim Greek citizenship through a great-grandparent. However, this requires that each generation between you and your great-grandparent (i.e., your grandparent and parent) also obtains or has obtained Greek citizenship. This means your parent and grandparent must establish their citizenship before you can apply.
How long does the application process take?
The processing time for Greek citizenship by descent can vary. On average, it takes between 12 to 24 months. Factors influencing the timeline include the completeness of your documentation, the specific consulate or municipal office handling your case, and whether you have legal assistance.
What are the benefits of obtaining Greek citizenship?
As a Greek citizen, you gain the right to live, work, and study in Greece and other EU countries. You also have access to public healthcare and education systems, the ability to own property in Greece, and the right to vote in Greek elections.
Do I need to speak Greek to apply for citizenship by descent?
No, language proficiency is not required when applying for Greek citizenship by descent. The Greek language and cultural integration requirements apply primarily to naturalization cases (those without ancestral ties). However, knowledge of basic Greek may still be helpful during the municipal registration process or if interacting directly with Greek authorities.
Can I include my children in my application for Greek citizenship by descent?
If your children are minors, they may be included in your application or added immediately after your citizenship is confirmed. If your children are adults, they will typically need to apply separately, although your successful registration can serve as supporting documentation for their own descent-based application. It’s important to gather and submit their birth certificates and ensure the lineage connection is clearly documented for each child.
What happens after my Greek citizenship is approved?
Once your application is approved, you will be registered in a Greek municipal registry and given a Greek identity number (Ληξιαρχική Πράξη Γέννησης). From that point, you are officially a Greek citizen and can apply for a Greek ID card and passport. You will also gain full rights as an EU citizen, including freedom of movement and employment within the EU.
Start with your past.
Start building your future.
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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.
