The 12 Best Countries to Gain Citizenship by Descent

Why a second residency might just be your birthright

February 12, 2025

Best Countries to Gain Citizenship by Descent — Image courtesy of iStock/elenabs.

Did you know that many countries around the world grant citizenship to foreigners who can prove ancestral ties? It’s called citizenship by descent. It’s like discovering a hidden treasure, and it could be your legal pathway to dual citizenship, cultural connection, and international mobility.

With U.S. President Donald Trump threatening to end the country’s birthright citizenship, and more and more Americans looking to move abroad, now’s the perfect time to review the world’s top citizenship by descent options.

And before you decide this isn’t a feasible route for you, you might want to examine your family tree. Most countries’ programs go back two or three generations, and if you’re married, you and your spouse have eight grandparents between you, so there may well be a connection to the old country somewhere in there.

Let’s explore the 12 best countries where you can gain citizenship by descent, outlining the requirements, processes, and why each destination is worth the effort.

1. Ireland

St. Patrick's Park, Dublin, Ireland. — St. Patrick’s Park, Dublin, Ireland. Photo courtesy of iStock/Daniele Di Novi.

Requirements and Process: Ireland’s citizenship laws are among the most generous. If you have an Irish parent, you’re automatically eligible. Grandchildren of Irish citizens can also qualify, but they must register in the Foreign Births Register. Great-grandchildren might qualify if their parents had registered before their birth.

Why Ireland? The Emerald Isle offers a vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and a strong passport granting access to the EU and visa-free travel to over 180 countries. Ireland’s welcoming people and thriving tech industry make it a popular choice.

2. Italy

A typical spread of delicious italian food. Photo courtesy of iStock/Irina Kozmova.

Requirements and Process: Italy’s citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis) rules are generous. If you have an Italian ancestor who never renounced their citizenship, you may qualify. There is no generational limit, but you’ll need to provide thorough documentation, including birth, marriage, and naturalization records.

Why Italy? From Renaissance art to mouthwatering cuisine, Italy offers an unmatched lifestyle. Its citizenship grants EU access, and its cultural heritage makes it a dream destination for history and art lovers.

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3. Poland

Church Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on the Main Market Square in Krakow, Poland. Photo courtesy of iStock/ewg3D.

Requirements and Process: Polish citizenship by descent is available if at least one ancestor was a Polish citizen after 1920 and didn’t lose their citizenship. The process involves proving your lineage through documentation and navigating Poland’s citizenship laws.

Why Poland? Poland is a hub of Central European culture, boasting medieval towns, bustling cities like Warsaw and Kraków, and a growing economy. Polish citizenship grants EU privileges, making it an appealing option.

4. Hungary

Tower of fishermen's bastion, Budapest, Hungary. — Tower of fishermen’s bastion, Budapest, Hungary. Photo courtesy of iStock/PEDRE.

Requirements and Process: Hungary allows citizenship by descent for those with at least one Hungarian ancestor. Proficiency in Hungarian is required for most applicants. You’ll need to provide documentation proving ancestry and maintain a connection to Hungary’s culture.

Why Hungary? Known for its thermal baths, rich folklore, and stunning architecture, Hungary offers a vibrant cultural experience. Budapest, its capital, is one of Europe’s most picturesque cities.

5. Slovakia

Calvary Banska Stiavnica in an autumn season, Slovakia, Europe. Photo courtesy of iStock/ViliamM.

Requirements and Process: If you have Slovak ancestors, you may qualify for citizenship. Documentation proving your lineage is essential. Recent legal changes have made it easier for descendants of Slovak immigrants to apply, even if they don’t speak Slovak.

Why Slovakia? Slovakia is a hidden gem with dramatic mountain ranges, medieval castles, and charming villages. Its central location in Europe makes it a great base for exploring neighboring countries.

6. Croatia

Adriatic Sea Dubrovnik — Photo courtesy of iStock.

Requirements and Process: Croatia’s citizenship by descent applies to individuals with Croatian ancestors up to the second generation. Proficiency in Croatian is not required, but documentation proving ancestry is essential. As in Slovakia, recent laws have eased the application process for descendants.

Why Croatia? Croatia is famed for its Adriatic coastline, historic towns like Dubrovnik, and Mediterranean lifestyle. As an EU member, Croatian citizenship opens the door to European opportunities.

7. Austria

Heiliger Franz of Assisi church, Vienna, Austria. Photo courtesy of iStock/sborisov.

Requirements and Process: Austria’s citizenship by descent applies to children of Austrian citizens. In 2020, the law was expanded to include descendants of victims of Nazi persecution who fled Austria. Documentation and evidence of lineage are crucial.

Why Austria? Austria’s alpine scenery, classical music legacy, and high quality of life are irresistible. Vienna frequently ranks as one of the most livable cities in the world.

8. Czech Republic

The Strahov Library in Prague, Czech Republic. Photo courtesy of iStock/Nikada.

Requirements and Process: Descendants of Czech citizens can apply for citizenship by descent, particularly if their ancestors left between 1918 and 1992. The process involves providing proof of lineage and navigating Czech bureaucracy.

Why the Czech Republic? The Czech Republic offers fairytale towns, a rich brewing tradition, and a central European lifestyle. Prague’s architectural splendor and cultural vibrancy are major draws.

9. Germany

The Black Forest area of Germany. Photo courtesy of iStock/ssiltane.

Requirements and Process: Germany allows citizenship by descent for children born to German citizens. Descendants of individuals persecuted by the Nazi regime may also qualify. Applicants must provide comprehensive documentation.

Why Germany? Germany’s robust economy, world-class education, and central location in Europe make it an excellent choice. From the Black Forest to Berlin’s urban pulse, there’s something for everyone.

10. India

Kalpa village with the Himalayan mountain range in the background, Pradesh India. Photo courtesy of iStock/Roop_Dey.

Requirements and Process: India offers the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card to individuals with Indian ancestry. While it’s not full citizenship, it’s nearly the same thing: the OCI grants lifetime visa-free travel, property ownership rights, and access to some government services.

Why India? India is a land of contrasts, offering everything from Himalayan retreats to tropical beaches. Its cultural diversity, spiritual traditions, and vibrant festivals make it a fascinating homeland.

11. Ghana

Pirogue boats line that Ghanan beachside. Photo courtesy of iStock/Renate Wefers.

Requirements and Process: Ghana’s Right of Abode policy allows individuals of African descent to apply for permanent residency and eventual citizenship. Applicants must demonstrate ties to Ghana through ancestry or cultural affiliation.

Why Ghana? Known as the Gateway to Africa, Ghana boasts rich traditions, welcoming locals, and stunning coastlines. Its stable democracy and economic growth make it a prime destination for reconnecting with African heritage.

12. Portugal

A street in the medieval village of Óbidos, Portugal. Photo courtesy of iStock/Armando Oliveira.

Requirements and Process: Portugal offers citizenship by descent to those with Portuguese ancestors. The process involves proving lineage through official documents. Descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled during the Inquisition also qualify under a special program.

Why Portugal? Portugal’s sunny climate, historic cities, and Atlantic beaches are captivating. With a Portuguese passport, you gain EU access and a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle.

Embarking on a journey to claim citizenship by descent not only reconnects you with your roots but also opens doors to global opportunities. Whether it’s savoring Italian gelato, hiking Irish cliffs, or exploring Ghana’s vibrant markets, each country offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern appeal.

With patience and determination, your ancestral heritage could lead to a new passport, a deeper sense of belonging, and even a new life.