EU Citizenship by Descent 2025: The Ultimate Guide

For many people, ancestry isn’t just a curiosity; it’s a potential passport. Literally.

Tucked away in your family tree could be a legal pathway to one of the most powerful citizenships in the world: that of the European Union.

European Union citizenship isn’t just a status symbol. It offers the freedom to live, work, and study across 31 countries, plus access to excellent healthcare, legal protections, and the kind of stability that’s increasingly rare elsewhere.

Obtaining citizenship here means being able to access all EU member states, along with Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland. If you’re lucky enough to get an Irish passport, you’ll also have unique access to the UK.

That’s why more people are tracing their roots – not just for heritage but for opportunity.

While golden visas and naturalisation are well-known routes to a second passport, they often come with high costs or long waiting periods.

But there’s a lesser-known alternative that’s faster, cheaper, and more meaningful for those with European ancestry: citizenship by descent (CBD).

If your parent, grandparent – or, in some cases, great-grandparent – was born in an EU country, you could qualify for citizenship without setting foot there or making a single euro in investment.

It’s one of the most accessible second passport options for those who qualify, and it’s gaining attention in 2025 as more countries streamline the process.

But there’s a lot to digest, and the CBD landscape is continually evolving, so the Nomad Capitalist team has put together this in-depth guide breaking down everything you need to know: the eligibility criteria, which countries offer it, and how to make the most of a powerful passport you may already have a claim to.

Pros and Cons of EU Citizenship by Descent in 2025

Claiming EU citizenship via your ancestry is, most of the time, a great choice. However, it’s wise to explore both the pros and cons before you set sail.

Potential Pros

For starters, you could enjoy a really high quality of life with access to excellent healthcare, respected schools and universities and a wide range of job opportunities across all the EU member countries. 

It’s also a precious gift you can pass on to your children and their children. 

To top it off, the journey itself can be a wonderful way to enrich your own life and connect with your culture. Many people find joy in reconnecting with their heritage, perhaps learning a new language or exploring family traditions, which can be incredibly rewarding. 

Another big plus is being able to travel and move around more freely, with more possibilities across the 27 EU member states. 

Potential Cons

While the upsides are exciting, the application itself can be complex and lengthy, with official steps sometimes taking many months or longer. 

Gathering the right paperwork, like old family records, can also be a hurdle, and they will often need official verification. 

Each country’s legal rules for citizenship require careful understanding, and professional advice is invaluable. 

You might also have some new tax considerations or reporting duties in the EU country. 

Lastly, this journey can be emotionally demanding, and it’s important to know that success isn’t always guaranteed, even with good preparation.

How to Get EU Citizenship by Descent?

The whole process really starts with a core concept, a legal principle that’s the foundation for most ancestral citizenship. 

This is called jus sanguinis, a Latin phrase that simply means ‘right of blood’. 

Unlike jus soli, or ‘Right of Soil’, which ties your citizenship to where you were born, jus sanguinis is like a citizenship inheritance.

When it comes to who’s eligible, the key nearly always lies in clearly proving your direct family link to an ancestor who was a citizen of the particular EU country. 

You’ll generally need to show that your ancestor had this citizenship at the relevant times, for example, when their child (your next link in the chain) was born. It’s also important that the country your ancestors came from offers jus sanguinis. 

One of the biggest common challenges is the often tedious work of finding all the official documents needed. You’ll probably have to dig up birth, marriage and death certificates, sometimes from many years ago, and get them all properly certified. 

Changes in a country’s citizenship laws over the decades can also make things tricky, as can any gaps or uncertainties in proving the citizenship link through the generations. 

Nation-by-Nation Guide for 2025

We now know that EU citizenship is possible by tracing your family tree across Europe. 

We also mentioned that each member state has its own distinct pathways rooted in history and law. 

Before we explore these countries, it’s worth mentioning that most EU countries permit dual citizenship. 

For countries that have slight nuances or don’t permit dual citizenship, we will explain how it works. 

Austria Citizenship by Descent

Austria’s citizenship rules favour bloodline connections. 

Usually, if you were born to an Austrian mother or to married parents where the father was Austrian when you were born, you may be eligible. 

A major amendment from 2020, which was further explained in 2022, permits direct descendants of victims of Nazism to regain Austrian citizenship. This provision doesn’t have typical generational limits and applies to great-grandchildren and beyond. 

Belgium ​​Citizenship by Descent

Belgium also bases its citizenship on jus sanguinis. 

For those born abroad to a Belgian parent who was also born abroad, there can be a requirement to make a declaration before the age of five to retain Belgian nationality, though specific circumstances vary.

Bulgaria ​​Citizenship by Descent

Bulgarian citizenship can be acquired if at least one parent is a Bulgarian citizen. 

It’s also possible to claim ancestry up to three generations back (i.e. to a Bulgarian grandparent). 

Croatia ​​Citizenship by Descent

Croatia’s citizenship laws are rooted in jus sanguinis. 

However, there are also rules for descendants of former Croatian citizens (emigrants) to get citizenship. This could include great-grandparents if the ancestor left Croatia before October 8, 1991, and did not leave to live in another former Yugoslav republic. 

Recent updates to the Law on Foreigners in early 2025 have focused more on residency and work permits, but affirm the pathways for diaspora return. 

Cyprus ​​Citizenship by Descent

In Cyprus, if you were born after August 16, 1960, and at least one of your parents was a Cypriot citizen at the time of your birth, you are generally eligible for Cypriot citizenship. 

Czech Republic ​​Citizenship by Descent

The Czech Republic grants citizenship by descent based on jus sanguinis. 

Citizenship can also be traced back through grandparents in certain circumstances, particularly if your parent didn’t actively acquire Czech citizenship but was entitled to it. 

Denmark ​​Citizenship by Descent

In Denmark, if you were born on or after July 1, 2014, you automatically become a Danish citizen if either of your parents is Danish, regardless of where you were born. 

For those born before this date, the rules were more complex, often favouring transmission through a Danish mother or a Danish father if the parents were married. 

Estonia ​​Citizenship by Descent

A child acquires Estonian citizenship by birth if at least one parent is an Estonian citizen at the time of the child’s birth. 

Estonia’s stance on dual citizenship is somewhat restrictive for naturalised citizens, but dual citizenship is generally tolerated for those who acquire Estonian citizenship by birth and also hold another citizenship.

Finland ​​Citizenship by Descent

Finnish citizenship is acquired by descent if your mother is a Finnish citizen. 

If your Finnish father was not married to your (non-Finnish) mother at the time of your birth, you may still acquire citizenship by declaration, provided paternity is established. 

France ​​Citizenship by Descent

France applies the principle of jus sanguinis. 

However, if your family has lived outside France for more than 50 years and has not maintained ties (like holding a French passport), your French nationality might need to be actively proven or re-established. 

Germany ​​Citizenship by Descent

If you were born to at least one German parent, you generally acquire German citizenship at birth. 

For children born abroad to German parent(s) who were themselves born abroad after December 31, 1999, the child must register the birth with German authorities within one year to acquire German citizenship. 

Recent reforms effective in 2024 have significantly liberalised dual citizenship laws, now generally permitting it.

Greece ​​Citizenship by Descent

Greek citizenship can often be traced back several generations, typically requiring proof of descent from a Greek citizen ancestor.

Hungary ​​Citizenship by Descent

If you have Hungarian ancestry, even going back several generations to great-grandparents who were Hungarian citizens, especially from areas that were historically part of Hungary, you may be eligible. The process often involves a simplified naturalisation procedure for descendants. 

Ireland ​​Citizenship by Descent

Ireland is well-known for its broad application of jus sanguinis. 

If one of your parents was an Irish citizen at the time of your birth, and they were born on the island of Ireland, you’re automatically an Irish citizen, regardless of your birthplace. 

If your parent or grandparent is an Irish citizen, you can register as an Irish citizen in the Foreign Births Register. 

Italy ​​Citizenship by Descent

Italy has always been known for its wide acceptance of citizenship by descent. 

However, a new legal decree (No. 36/2025, known as the ‘Tajani Decree’) was enacted on March 28, 2025. The new decree formally limits new claims to descendants of a parent or grandparent born in Italy. It also outlines a shift to a centralised application office. 

As of May 2025, this decree is subject to parliamentary conversion within 60 days of enactment, meaning amendments are still possible. Applications filed before March 28, 2025, are expected to be processed under the previous, more lenient rules.

Latvia ​​Citizenship by Descent

Latvian citizenship can be acquired by descent if you have an ancestor who was a Latvian citizen on June 17, 1940, or if you were born to a Latvian parent. 

There are also provisions for descendants of Latvians or Livs (an indigenous Finnic people) who resided in Latvia before that date. 

Uniquely, Latvia permits dual citizenship with EU, EFTA and NATO member states, as well as Australia, Brazil and New Zealand, and for descendants of Latvian exiles.

Lithuania ​​Citizenship by Descent

Lithuania offers citizenship by descent to individuals who have a parent, grandparent or even a great-grandparent who was a citizen of Lithuania prior to June 15, 1940. 

This also extends to descendants of those who fled or were exiled during the Soviet occupation (1940-1990). 

Luxembourg ​​Citizenship by Descent

Luxembourg permits citizenship by descent. 

Notably, specific laws, such as the former Article 7 for certain paternal lines or Article 89 for those who pre-qualified before December 31, 2018, had deadlines for initial applications. 

Article 89 applicants now have a final deadline of December 31, 2025, to complete the process by visiting Luxembourg. 

Malta ​​Citizenship by Descent

Maltese citizenship by descent is generally available if you’re a direct descendant of an ancestor born in Malta to a parent who was also born in Malta. 

In essence, this typically implies having a grandparent who was born in Malta and whose own parent was also of Maltese descent. 

Netherlands ​​Citizenship by Descent

Dutch citizenship is typically acquired at birth if your mother was Dutch or if your father was Dutch and married to your non-Dutch mother at the time of your birth. The rules vary for births before 1985 and for unmarried fathers. 

Poland ​​Citizenship by Descent

Poland grants citizenship by descent. 

If you can prove that an ancestor was a Polish citizen and did not lose that citizenship before your birth (or the birth of the next person in your lineage), you may be eligible. 

Also, keep in mind that frequent Polish citizenship law changes might have caused some people to lose their citizenship, especially before 1951. 

Portugal ​​Citizenship by Descent

Portuguese citizenship can be acquired by descent if a parent or grandparent is or was a Portuguese citizen. 

Portugal also had a notable law granting citizenship to descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled from Portugal centuries ago. However, this law has undergone major changes. 

In 2022 and 2024, changes made to the law now require applicants to show a strong, ongoing connection to Portugal. Applicants must have legally lived in Portugal for at least three years before applying.

Romania ​​Citizenship by Descent

Romanian citizenship by descent is possible if you have ancestors, typically up to great-grandparents. 

Some basic Romanian language knowledge might be beneficial or even expected during the process.

Slovakia ​​Citizenship by Descent

Slovakia permits citizenship by descent if a parent, grandparent or great-grandparent was a Czechoslovak citizen born in the territory of what is now the Slovak Republic. 

Notably, for this specific descent route, there’s no Slovak language proficiency requirement. 

Slovenia ​​Citizenship by Descent

Slovenian citizenship can be acquired by descent if at least one of your parents was a Slovenian citizen at the time of your birth. 

It is also possible to claim through grandparents in certain circumstances, particularly if they were Slovenian citizens and left Slovenia.

Spain ​​Citizenship by Descent

Spanish citizenship law incorporates jus sanguinis. 

Spain also has rules for descendants, especially the ‘Democratic Memory Law’. This law permits the children and grandchildren of Spaniards who were exiled for political, ideological or religious reasons during certain historical times to qualify for CBD. 

Spain’s view on dual citizenship is different from that of other nations.

People usually have to give up their other nationalities when they become Spanish citizens by naturalisation. 

But there are some exceptions, especially for people from Ibero-American countries, such as Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea and Portugal. 

Sweden ​​Citizenship by Descent

Swedish citizenship is granted at birth if your mother was a Swedish citizen when you were born. 

If your Swedish father wasn’t married to your non-Swedish mother, you might still acquire citizenship if you were born after April 1, 2015, or by invitation if you were born earlier, under certain conditions.

Easiest EU Country for Ancestral Citizenship?

The ‘easiest’ route for you will always be the one that best matches your family’s specific documented history with a particular country’s current laws.

With that said, while no country is universally ‘easiest’ for everyone, some routes are often seen as clearer or more generous. 

Ireland, for example, is frequently mentioned because a lot of people have Irish heritage and the ability to claim CBD stretches back fairly far. 

Similarly, countries like Poland or Hungary may permit claims reaching back several generations if your ancestor’s citizenship was continuous through the family line, often without requiring a language test for descent-based applications. 

British Citizenship by Descent Post-Brexit 

Since the UK’s departure from the European Union, British citizenship no longer grants EU citizenship rights. 

It’s also best to keep in mind that when we speak of Welsh, Scottish or English ancestry in this context, they all fall under the umbrella of British citizenship.

The good news is that even after Brexit, ‌pathways to British citizenship by descent remain governed by UK nationality law, which hasn’t changed at all. 

Generally, you can claim British citizenship if one of your parents was a British citizen when you were born. 

The specifics can depend on whether your parent(s) were British by birth in the UK or British by descent themselves, and also when and where you were born. 

Other than the UK, other countries, like the United States, Canada, and Australia, also have their own rules for citizenship by descent. 

EU Citizenship by Descent: FAQs

Your European Legacy and Future 

Tracing your roots can lead to more than just a acquiring citizenship or securing a second passport – it can unlock a legacy of freedom, mobility, and opportunity for generations to come.

But let’s be honest: not everyone will qualify for European citizenship via descent. Records may be lost, borders may have shifted, or eligibility rules might cut off your ancestral claim.

But that doesn’t mean your global journey ends here.

If descent isn’t your route in, there are still smart, strategic ways to build a European life – and a freer future – on your own terms.

Golden visas can offer residency in the European Union and, in many cases, a pathway to full citizenship.

Digital nomad visas in European countries like Spain and Portugal can evolve into long-term residency and even a second passport.

Further afield, Caribbean citizenship by investment can provide visa-free access to the Schengen Area and dramatically expand your travel freedom.

The world is full of doors – you just need to know which one to knock on. At Nomad Capitalist, we help successful entrepreneurs, investors, and families design bespoke global strategies that protect their freedom, grow their wealth, and unlock new possibilities.

 If you’re ready to explore what your next chapter could look like, get in touch today.