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  • Writer's pictureKyveli Zahou

Claiming Your Greek Ancestry: How to Secure Citizenship by Descent with Expat Law

Updated: 5 days ago

Considering Greek citizenship through your ancestral roots? As a legal agency specializing in citizenship and immigration law, we provide expert guidance to transform your Greek heritage into citizenship. This comprehensive guide outlines the legal pathways, documentation, and processes to successfully claim your Greek citizenship by descent.

 

Am I eligible?

Navigating the complexities of Greek citizenship through ancestry can be quite challenging, as the smallest details can greatly impact the outcome. Here's the lowdown on whether you can stake a claim to Greek heritage citizenship:

1.     Parental Heritage: If either your mother or father is a Greek citizen and is registered in the municipal records, you are eligible for citizenship by descent.

2.     Birth in Greece: Those born in Greece may claim citizenship if at least one parent had legal residency in Greece for a minimum of five years before their birth.

3.     Non-Marital Birth: In cases where the parents were not married at the time of birth, citizenship is automatically granted if the mother is Greek. If the father is Greek, proof of paternity is required, such as a paternity test or an affidavit acknowledging the birth.

4.     Adoption: Individuals adopted by a Greek citizen while under the age of eighteen are entitled to Greek citizenship.

5.     Third-Generation Greeks: If you have at least one grandparent who was born in Greece or was naturalized, you may apply for citizenship. Note that in some cases, your parent may need to obtain citizenship first.

 

The specifics of your application can also vary depending on the year you were born and the marital status of your parents. Do reach out to Expat Law to navigate these complexities. Getting accurate legal advice early in the process is essential to avoid unnecessary complications and expenses.


Gathering Necessary Documents

Having established your eligibility for Greek citizenship by descent, the next step is to solidify your claim. This is done by obtaining your Certificate of Registration—a vital document that serves as the official record of your status as a Greek citizen. To prepare for this process, you will need to collect a specific set of documents for submission. Ensure you have the following in hand:

1.     Personal Identification: Your valid passport and your birth certificate are indispensable, verifying your identity.

2.     Religious Records: If applicable, include your christening or baptism certificate, which can be pivotal in corroborating your Greek origins.

3.     Passport Photo: A current passport-sized photograph that adheres to official guidelines.

4.     Children’s Documentation: For parents, birth and baptism certificates of your children are required to establish the generational link.

5.     Marital Records of Your Parents: A marriage certificate of your parents must be presented, specifying whether it was a civil or religious ceremony, and the religious denomination involved, if any.

6.     Ancestral Certificates: Provide birth certificates for your parents, as well as death certificates if applicable.

7.     Greek Municipal Registration: Documentation proving your parents' registration as Greek citizens with the municipal authorities.

8.     Divorce and Name Change Records: Any legal documents regarding divorces or name changes are necessary to ensure the continuity and accuracy of your family record.

9.     Criminal Record Check: A certificate indicating a clean criminal record is a standard requirement.

10. Certified Translations: All documents must be translated by a Greek lawyer or certified by the Greek consulate.

11. Foreign Marriage Registration: Marriages that took place outside of Greece must be officially registered in the “Special Registry” in Athens.

When your documentation is ready, you will book an appointment with the Greek consulate closest to you. Your completed application, accompanied by the €150 fee, will be sent to the designated Municipal Office in Greece. Keep in mind, the processing time can extend to two years or more, so plan accordingly.

This thorough preparation will pave the way for a smooth registration process, bringing you one step closer to reaping the full benefits of your Greek heritage.


Applying for Greek Citizenship by Descent

Once you have meticulously collected all the necessary documentation for your Certificate of Registration, you are ready to engage with the actual application process. The journey from eligibility to the culmination of your claim involves a detailed submission to the Greek authorities. Here's how to navigate the application phase!





By approaching the application process with thoroughness and patience, you strengthen the likelihood of a favorable outcome. With every correctly filled form and accurately gathered document, you're crafting a strong case for your claim to Greek heritage.


The Advantages of Greek Dual Citizenship

Greece allows dual citizenship, so you won’t have to give up your current nationality. As a new holder of dual citizenship, you maintain your original nationality while enjoying the rights and privileges that come with being a Greek national. This dual status allows you to:

  • Live and Work: Settle or seek employment anywhere within Greece or the broader European Union without the need for a work permit.

  • Education and Healthcare: Access public education and healthcare systems on the same terms as native Greeks.

  • Voting Rights: Participate in Greek national elections and referendums, giving you a voice in the democratic process.

Navigating Your New Rights and Responsibilities

With citizenship comes a new set of responsibilities that you'll need to familiarize yourself with. It’s essential to understand the tax implications and, for male citizens, the mandatory military service requirements.


With this comprehensive guide the journey to your Greek heritage and the privileges of dual citizenship are within reach. For personalized guidance that reflects your unique history and circumstances, or to clarify any aspects of the citizenship process, the team at Expat Law is ready to assist you. Our expertise covers the full spectrum of citizenship and immigration scenarios, including more complex situations like deportation defense and asylum applications.


Take advantage of our extensive experience in immigration and international law and contact us for bespoken legal advice. Email kyveli@expatlaw.gr or reach out directly via call or text at +306945551914. At Expat Law, we're dedicated to providing you with the clear and concise legal pathways that lead to Greek citizenship. Let us be the compass that guides you home.

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