Where Can Americans Get Dual Citizenship By Descent In 2025?

Claiming citizenship by descent is one of the most accessible pathways for US citizens to secure a second passport. The process varies by country, but certain steps and strategies can help you succeed—saving time, money, and frustration. Check out the generalized process below with this step-by-step guide, and be sure to download our FREE checklist: How To Get A Second Passport Through Citizenship By Descent. The checklist will keep you on track during the (usually) multi-year process of applying. 

1. Confirm Your Eligibility

• Trace your family tree to identify any parent, grandparent, or (in some countries) great-grandparent with foreign citizenship.

• Research specific country rules using targeted keywords like “citizenship by ancestry [country],” as eligibility can differ significantly between nations such as Italy, Ireland, Poland, and Portugal.

2. Gather Essential Documents

• Collect official birth, marriage, and death certificates for each generation linking you to your ancestor.

• Many countries require apostilled documents—certified for international use—and official translations into the local language.

• Don’t forget to check for name changes, spelling variations, and missing records; these can slow down your application.

3. Professional Document Preparation

• Work with local agencies or genealogists to fill in gaps. Some consulates offer guidance or lists of approved translation and certification providers.

• Ensure all documents meet current legal standards (2025 rules may differ from previous years).

4. Submit Your Application

• File with the appropriate government office—typically a consulate or embassy in the US, or the citizenship authority in the country of your ancestor.

• The application may involve interviews or supplemental affidavits. For popular destinations, expect long wait lists and check official timelines and updates.

5. Approval & Passport Issuance

• Processing times range from a few months (Ireland, Hungary) to over two years (Italy, Portugal).

• Once approved, you’ll receive citizenship by descent and may apply for your second passport.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete paperwork or low-quality translations.

• Underestimating generational restrictions or specific rule changes.

• Missing deadlines or failing to meet residency waivers for easier cases.

Pro Tips for Success

• Join online expat forums and groups dedicated to ancestry citizenship for real-time tips and country-specific guidance.

• Stay updated on changing rules—2025 has seen increased scrutiny and new requirements, especially in the EU and post-pandemic regulations.

Why Choose Citizenship by Descent?

• Fast, cost-effective, and often no residency or language requirements.

• Unlock easier travel, more opportunities, and global security—without large financial investments.

With the right preparation, Americans with ancestral ties can confidently navigate the path to dual citizenship, securing global mobility and a valuable second passport for themselves and future generations.