Understanding Jure Sanguinis: The Legal Basis for Citizenship by Descent in Europe
At Pravas Global, we specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of acquiring European citizenship through jure sanguinis, or citizenship by descent. This legal concept, rooted in the principle of bloodline rather than residency or birthplace, offers a unique pathway to citizenship across various European countries. Understanding the legal basis for jure sanguinis requires a comparative analysis of how different nations implement this principle.
The Principle of Jure Sanguinis
Jure sanguinis, Latin for “by right of blood,” allows individuals to inherit citizenship through their parents, grandparents, or sometimes even more distant ancestors. This concept contrasts with jure soli, or citizenship by birth on the territory of a country. While jure soli is more prevalent in countries like the United States, many European nations favor jure sanguinis, emphasizing the importance of familial ties and national heritage.
Country-Specific Examples
Italy
Italy is renowned for its jure sanguinis provisions, allowing citizenship to individuals with Italian ancestry. The Italian Citizenship Law of 1992 grants citizenship to descendants of Italian citizens, irrespective of the generation, as long as the lineage is unbroken. This means that even those whose ancestors emigrated centuries ago can apply, provided they meet specific conditions, such as the ancestor not having renounced their citizenship, in addition to meeting various cut-off dates.
Germany
Germany also recognizes jure sanguinis, but with a more restrictive approach. Under the Nationality Act, children born to at least one German parent are granted citizenship, regardless of their place of birth. However, the law also stipulates that individuals seeking citizenship through a grandparent must meet certain criteria, such as proof of the grandparent’s citizenship status and maintaining ties to Germany. Citizenship on the basis of great-grandparents or great-great-grandparents is also possible in some cases. In addition, descendants of individuals persecuted for their religious or political beliefs by the National Socialist regime have a simplified path to citizenship.
Croatia
In addition to its stunning coastlines, Croatia also has arguably the most flexible citizenship by descent policy in the European Union. Interestingly, citizenship is generally open to descendants of emigrants from present-day Croatian territory (of any ethnicity) and ethnic Croats. There is no language requirement for citizenship by descent under Croatia’s citizenship law. If you have Croatian roots, you most likely qualify!
Hungary
In Hungary, citizenship by descent allows individuals to claim Hungarian citizenship if they can prove their ancestry, typically through parents or grandparents. This principle is codified in the Hungarian Citizenship Act, enabling those with Hungarian heritage to reconnect with their roots. Additionally, simplified naturalization is available for ethnic Hungarians living outside Hungary, further descendants of Hungarian emigrants, or descendants of emigrants former Hungarian territories, allowing them to obtain citizenship more easily. This process typically requires proof of Hungarian ancestry, language proficiency, and an affirmation of loyalty to Hungary. These provisions reflect Hungary’s commitment to supporting its diaspora and preserving cultural ties.
Ireland
Ireland’s approach is similarly favorable towards jure sanguinis. Irish citizenship is available to anyone with at least one grandparent born in Ireland. This law reflects Ireland’s historical migration patterns and the significant Irish diaspora worldwide. The process is straightforward, requiring proof of lineage, such as birth certificates and marriage records.
Poland
Poland offers a unique perspective on jure sanguinis, where citizenship can be claimed by descendants of Polish citizens who lost their citizenship due to historical events, such as World War II. The law allows for claims to citizenship by those who can trace their lineage back to a Polish ancestor, but the process may involve proving the ancestor’s citizenship status at the time of emigration.
Austria, Slovakia, Portugal, Luxembourg, Ukraine, and Serbia
Whilst out of this article’s limited scope, these countries all have forms of citizenship by descent. If you have ancestry from any of these countries, contact us to learn more! Note that Ukraine and Serbia are currently not EU member states.
The Importance of Documentation
Regardless of the country, applicants must provide thorough documentation to establish their lineage. This typically includes birth, marriage, and death certificates, all of which must clearly illustrate the familial connections leading to the applicant’s ancestor. The requirements can vary significantly, making expert guidance essential.
Why Choose Pravas Global?
Navigating the complexities of jure sanguinis can be challenging, but at Pravas Global, we are dedicated to simplifying the process for you. Our team of genealogical experts specializes in comparative European citizenship law and is committed to helping you understand your rights and options. Whether you have Italian, German, Croatian, Hungarian, or other European ancestry, we will guide you every step of the way, ensuring that you gather the necessary documentation and meet all legal requirements.
Conclusion
Jure sanguinis presents a valuable opportunity for individuals seeking to reconnect with their European heritage and enjoy the benefits of holding a second passport. By understanding the legal frameworks and requirements of different countries, you can take the first step towards acquiring citizenship by descent. Contact us today to explore your eligibility and begin your journey toward European citizenship.
Ancestry is one of the world’s most powerful global mobility tools. Pravas Global revolutionizes and streamlines the notoriously complex citizenship by descent process by combining years of citizenship procedural experience with a private-client approach to genealogy.
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Determine your eligibility
Confirming your eligibility is crucial in any citizenship by descent process. Our team of experts in comparative European citizenship law will determine which citizenship programme(s) you are eligible for. If more genealogical research needs to be carried out before determining your eligibility, our in-house genealogists will conduct the necessary genealogical research.
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Pre-application document gathering
Gathering documents is typically the most complex part about any citizenship application. Our team will gather the necessary vital statistics and archival documents for your application. If you are missing documents, we will advise on what other documents might be accepted by national authorities in lieu of the missing document.
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Application
We will advise you on how to submit your application, in addition to the steps for obtaining your passport (and any other relevant documents) after your application’s approval.
Your ancestry unlocks the world.
Book a call with your personal citizenship and genealogy expert to discover how we can help you create a legacy for you and your family. We are here to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have the right to live in the UK as an EU citizen?
No, the UK left the EU in 2020. With the exit of the UK from the European Union, EU citizens unfortunately lost the freedom of movement in the UK. Nevertheless, EU citizens still have the freedom of movement in over 30 countries, including neighboring Ireland.
How many citizenships can I have?
Contrary to popular belief, most countries do not have a maximum number of citizenships permitted per se. Furthermore, “dual citizenship” is not a legal institution itself, rarely mentioned by national legislation, but rather a mere description of the legal phenomena of having more than one citizenship. The acquisition and loss of each country’s citizenship is regulated by the respective country’s legislation.
How long does the citizenship procedure take?
The timeline depends on your specific case and the specific administrative authorities involved.
As a dual citizen, will I need to pay taxes in the EU?
The United States is one of the only countries in the world that taxes on the basis of citizenship. European Union member states take a more residency-based approach to taxation. Generally, some kind of substantial link will need to be created between the citizen and the country other than citizenship, such as residence, either administratively or through physical-presence. Pravas Global does not current provide tax consulting services and does not advise on tax law.