Greece offers citizenship by descent to individuals with Greek ancestry, allowing them to reconnect with their heritage and gain the benefits of Greek and EU citizenship.
MOBILITY ASSSET SNAPSHOT
Greek citizenship by descent, also known in Greece as "citizenship by birth," is available to individuals who can prove Greek ancestry in a direct line. This path to citizenship is based on the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood) and allows descendants of Greek citizens to claim their heritage.
Overview
Reconnect with your Greek roots through citizenship by descent.
Eligibility Requirements
At least one parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent was a Greek citizen
Anchor Ancestor restrictions
Must have been registered as a Greek citizen
Months to citizenship
18-24 months
Length of Visa
Months to Visa
Physical Presence Requirement
None
Availability
Medium
Family Allowance
Spouse and children
Overview
Overview
Our experienced team will guide you through each stage of the application process, offering personalized assistance tailored to your needs.
We'll help you gather and organize the documents you need for applying.
Once your documents are ready, we'll let you know where and how to submit your application to the relevant authorities.
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
Is there a generational limit for Greek citizenship by descent?
No, there is technically no generational limit, but you must prove an unbroken line of Greek citizenship.
Do I need to speak Greek to apply for citizenship by descent?
No, there is no Greek language requirement for citizenship by descent applications.
How long does the citizenship application process take?
The process typically takes about 18-24 months, depending on the complexity of the case.
Can I hold dual citizenship with Greece?
Yes, Greece allows dual citizenship.
Where do I submit my application for Greek citizenship by descent?
Applications can be submitted at Greek embassies or consulates abroad, or at local authorities if residing in Greece.
DOCUMENTS
Valid passport (original and copies)+National ID card (if applicable)+Passport-sized photographs (4).
Birth certificate of the applicant (certified copy)+Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
Proof of current address (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.) required
Criminal record extract from your country of residence+FBI Identity History Summary (apostilled): If the applicant is a U.S+citizen or has resided in the United States, an FBI background check is required+This document must be apostilled to confirm its authenticity for use in Greece+State Police Clearance (apostilled): Applicants must provide a police clearance certificate from every U.S+state or country where they have lived since the age of 16+Each certificate must also be apostilled+Greek Criminal Records Check: If the applicant has ever resided in Greece, they must obtain a criminal records check from the Greek authorities+This is typically done locally, and it verifies the applicant's criminal record (or lack thereof) within Greece.
Not applicable
DOCUMENTS
Birth certificates from government archives; Marriage certificates for family dependencies; Police clearance records from current and past residences
Certified translations into official language(s); Apostille certification; Government-issued document legalization
Diploma and transcript verification; Professional certification authentication; Credential evaluation services
Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees
Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing
Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing
Document verification fees; Background check processing; Application status updates
Consulate visit expenses; Interview travel costs; Temporary accommodation (if required)
Language proficiency testing; Skills assessment fees; Additional document requests
Immigration lawyer consultation; Document review services; Legal representation fees
Tax planning consultation; Asset transfer advisory; Investment planning services
Relocation services; Property search assistance; Settlement support services
Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates
Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees
Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees
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