Greek Citizenship by descent
Learn everything you need to know on how to get the Greek Citizenship by descent
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What is the Greek citizenship by descent?
Who can Apply for citizenship by descent?
Greek citizenship by descent is available to individuals who can prove a direct family link to a Greek national. The following categories of people may qualify:
Children of Greek Citizens
Individuals born to at least one Greek parent are typically entitled to Greek citizenship automatically, regardless of whether they were born in Greece or abroad.
Grandchildren of Greek Nationals
If your grandparent was originally a Greek citizen, you may be eligible for citizenship — especially if you can prove direct descent and that your ancestor was registered in Greek municipal records. Additional documentation may be required to confirm the continuity of nationality and family ties.
Descendants of Greeks Born Abroad
For descendants of Greeks who emigrated decades ago—especially those born in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, or parts of Latin America—it is still possible to claim Greek citizenship, provided that sufficient documentation is available. Challenges often arise when earlier generations were never formally registered in Greece or lost contact with Greek authorities.
In such cases, applicants must gather evidence such as:
Greek passports, military service records, or identification papers from the ancestor
Certificates of naturalization in another country
Civil records confirming the familial link
It’s important to note that the Greek state does not recognize an automatic right to citizenship for descendants of Greek emigrants who have lost their citizenship due to naturalization in another country, unless they formally maintained or re-established their Greek nationality.
Ethnic Greeks from Former Greek Communities
Although not always part of the standard descent process, some pathways have historically been available to ethnic Greeks from communities outside modern Greece—such as the former Soviet Union or the Balkans—through special provisions or repatriation programs.
Important Considerations
Registration in Greek Municipal Records: Eligibility for citizenship often hinges on the ancestor’s registration in a Greek municipal registry. Without this, proving Greek nationality becomes significantly more difficult.
Document Requirements: Applicants must submit a full set of authenticated civil records (birth, marriage, etc.) translated into Greek and apostilled or legalized.
Generational Limits: While there is no hard legal limit on how many generations down one can apply, the further removed you are from the Greek ancestor, the more complex and indirect the process becomes.
Legal Support: Given the bureaucratic nature of the process and the importance of precise documentation, many applicants choose to work with legal professionals to ensure their applications are properly prepared and submitted. That’s where Lexidy can help you. Contact us and our expert immigration lawyers will help you with your particular case with a free case consultation.
How to obtain Greek citizenship by descent?
If you have Greek ancestry, you may be entitled to Greek citizenship through descent. The process requires gathering official documentation, verifying lineage, and registering with Greek authorities. Here’s how the process typically works:
1. Determine Your Eligibility
You may qualify for Greek citizenship by descent if:
You were born to at least one parent who was a Greek citizen at the time of your birth, or
You are the grandchild (or, in some cases, great-grandchild) of a Greek citizen and can prove direct, uninterrupted lineage and legal registration of your ancestors in Greece.
Eligibility generally requires that your Greek ancestor was officially registered in a Greek municipal registry (Dimotologio) or male register (Mitroo Arenon) and that this lineage is documented through civil records.
2. Gather Required Documents
You’ll need to collect several official documents to support your application, including:
Your full birth certificate
Birth and marriage certificates of your parent(s) and grandparent(s)
Death certificates (if applicable)
Your valid passport and proof of current residence
Any documentation proving your Greek ancestor’s registration in Greece (e.g., Greek passport, identity card, consular registration, or military records)
In some cases, additional documentation may be needed if your parent must first apply for or restore their own Greek citizenship.
3. Apostille and Translate Documents
All foreign civil documents must be:
Apostilled (or legalized, depending on your country), and
Translated into Greek by an official translator or a certified professional recognized by Greek authorities.
Accuracy and consistency in names and dates across all documents are critical to avoid delays.
4. Submit the Application
Applications can be submitted at:
The Greek consulate in your country of residence, or
The municipality in Greece where your Greek ancestor was registered.
You’ll be required to fill out official forms, submit your documentation, and pay applicable fees. If your parent is not yet recognized as a Greek citizen, their application may need to be processed first.
5. Await Approval and Registration
Once the application is submitted, it is reviewed by the Greek Ministry of the Interior. Processing times can vary, but typically take several months to over a year, depending on the completeness of the application and whether multiple generations are involved.
If approved, your name will be entered into the Greek civil registry, granting you full Greek citizenship rights.
6. Obtain Greek Identity Documents
After being officially registered, you can apply for:
A Greek identity card
A Greek passport
These can be requested at the Greek consulate or in Greece directly, once your citizenship is confirmed.
What are the requirements?
Direct Lineage from a Greek Citizen
To qualify for Greek citizenship by descent, you must prove that at least one of your parents or grandparents was originally a Greek citizen.
If applying through a grandparent, you must establish uninterrupted descent and demonstrate that your ancestor was registered in a Greek municipal registry or other official Greek records.
Birth Certificates
You will need to submit your own birth certificate, as well as the birth certificates of your parent(s) and grandparent(s), in order to clearly document the family lineage across generations.
Proof of Grandparent’s Greek Nationality
To establish your grandparent’s Greek citizenship, you may be required to present documents such as:
A Greek birth certificate
A Greek passport or identity card
Registration in a Greek municipal record (Dimotologio) or male registry (Mitroo Arenon)
Military service records or consular documentation (if available)
Marriage Certificates
If your parent or grandparent was married, you may need to include their marriage certificate as part of the documentation to confirm legal status and family relationships at the time of birth.
Apostilled and Translated Documents
All foreign civil documents must be:
Apostilled (or legalized, depending on your country of issue)
Translated into Greek by an official or certified translator recognized by Greek authorities
Consistency of names, spelling, and dates across all documents is essential to avoid delays.
Valid ID and Passport
You will need to provide a valid passport or national identity document as proof of your own identity.
Proof of Legal Residence (if applicable)
If you are applying from within Greece, you may be asked to provide evidence of your legal residence, such as a residence permit or tax identification number (AFM). If applying from abroad, the Greek consulate may have its own documentation requirements.
What are the benefits of having Greek citizenship?
Freedom of Movement
Greek citizenship grants you the right to live, work, and study not only in Greece but in all European Union member states and Schengen Area countries without the need for a visa or residence permit. This includes long-term relocation, employment, and access to local services across the EU.
Visa-Free Travel
A Greek passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 countries, making international travel significantly easier. This includes entry to the U.S., Canada, Australia, the UK, and most of Asia without cumbersome visa procedures.
Access to EU Rights and Social Benefits
As a citizen of Greece and the European Union, you are entitled to full EU citizenship rights, including:
Equal treatment and non-discrimination across EU countries
Access to public healthcare systems
Social security and retirement benefits
Protection by EU consular services when abroad in non-EU countries
Educational Opportunities
EU citizenship provides access to low-cost or tuition-free education in Greece and other European countries. Many universities offer reduced rates, scholarships, and study mobility programs (like Erasmus+) exclusively for EU nationals.
Employment and Business Advantages
Greek citizens can freely work or start a business in any EU country without needing work permits or sponsorship. You can also access local business grants and funding available only to EU nationals.
Property and Inheritance Rights
Citizenship allows for easier property ownership in Greece and full inheritance rights under local laws. It also simplifies real estate transactions and long-term residence planning within the EU.
Eligibility for Public Sector Jobs
In Greece and many other EU countries, certain government and public sector jobs are restricted to EU citizens, including civil service, education, and healthcare roles.
Dual Citizenship
Greece permits dual citizenship, allowing you to retain your original nationality while enjoying the benefits of Greek and EU citizenship. This is especially valuable for individuals with ties to multiple countries or who wish to maintain flexibility in residence and travel.
What taxes will you pay?
Your tax obligations in Greece depend on whether you are classified as a tax resident or non-resident under Greek law. Greece, like many EU countries, applies a worldwide income taxation system for residents and a territorial system for non-residents.
1. Tax Residency in Greece
You are considered a Greek tax resident if:
You spend more than 183 days in Greece within a calendar year, or
Your primary residence or center of vital interests (e.g., business, employment, family) is in Greece.
If you are a tax resident, you are taxed on your worldwide income.
If you are a non-resident, you are taxed only on income sourced in Greece.
2. Taxes for Tax Residents
Personal Income Tax (PIT)
Greece applies a progressive income tax system for individuals:
Income up to €10,000: 9%
€10,001 – €20,000: 22%
€20,001 – €30,000: 28%
€30,001 – €40,000: 36%
Over €40,000: 44%
In addition, a solidarity contribution (temporarily suspended for some income brackets) may apply to higher income levels.
Social Security Contributions
Employees, freelancers, and business owners must pay social security contributions to the state system (EFKA), covering health, pension, and welfare benefits. Rates vary depending on employment type.
Capital Gains Tax
Real estate: 15% tax may apply on capital gains from property sales, though this has been suspended for certain transactions.
Securities: 15% tax on capital gains from shares not listed on a stock exchange.
Dividends and Interest
Dividends: 5% withholding tax
Interest: 15% withholding tax
Wealth Tax
Greece does not impose a formal wealth tax, but property ownership and other assets may result in indirect tax obligations (e.g., ENFIA).
ENFIA (Property Tax)
All property owners in Greece pay an annual property tax (ENFIA), calculated based on factors like location, size, age, and zone rates. It includes:
A main tax (flat-rate per square meter)
A supplementary tax for high-value assets
Inheritance and Gift Tax
Rates vary depending on the relationship between the parties:
Group A (close relatives like children and spouses): 0% to 10%
Group B/C (distant relatives or unrelated parties): Higher brackets apply
VAT (FPA)
Greece applies a standard VAT rate of 24%, with reduced rates of 13% and 6% for certain goods and services (e.g., food, medicines, tourism services).
How can a lawyer help me with the Greek citizenship?
A lawyer can help you by providing legal advice and guidance throughout the application process. Some ways a lawyer can assist you include:
Understanding the eligibility requirements
A lawyer can help you understand the eligibility requirements, including the criteria you need to meet and the documents you need to submit.
Preparing your application
A lawyer can assist you in preparing your application, ensuring that all the required documents are included and that your application is complete.
Addressing potential issues
If there are any potential issues with your application, such as gaps in your employment history or criminal convictions, a lawyer can help you address these issues and present your case in the best possible light.
Representing you in appeals
If your application is denied, a lawyer can represent you in any appeals process and help you to overcome the reasons for denial.
Providing ongoing support
A lawyer can provide ongoing support throughout the application process, answering any questions you may have and keeping you updated on the status of your application.
If you are interested in obtaining a Greek citizenship, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Our team of experienced lawyers is ready to assist you and guide you through the entire application process. Let us help you make your dream of living and working in Greece a reality.
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Why Greece?
Obtaining citizenship in Greece offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it opens an opportunity to live in one of Europe’s most captivating countries, with its vibrant cities, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Secondly, the visa enables access to Greek’s thriving digital and tech ecosystem, fostering networking opportunities and professional growth. Lastly, you will immerse in the warmth of French hospitality, savour its delectable cuisine, and explore its diverse regions while maintaining a flexible work-life balance.
Cultural immersion
Experience the rich Greek culture.
Location
Explore Europe without visa restrictions.
Stable economy
Greece has a stable and growing economy
Delicious cuisine
Taste world-renowned Greek food and wine.
Affordable living
Cost of living is lower compared to other European countries.
Healthcare access
Access to high-quality healthcare facilities and services.
Skilled workforce
Greece has a highly skilled and multilingual workforce.
Travel Opportunities
Explore diverse regions within Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to live in Greece to apply for citizenship by descent?
No, you do not need to live in Greece to apply. You can submit your application through the Greek consulate in your country of residence. However, if your ancestor’s records are missing or incomplete, it may be necessary for someone (you or a legal representative) to access municipal records in Greece directly.
If my grandparents were Greek, can I apply for citizenship by descent?
Yes, you may be eligible if your grandparent was a Greek citizen and registered in a Greek municipality (Dimotologio) or male register (Mitroo Arenon). You must prove uninterrupted lineage and may also need your parent (child of the grandparent) to claim or restore their Greek citizenship first, depending on the case.
How long does the process take?
The timeline can vary significantly. On average, it may take 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of your case, the availability of documents, and processing times at the Ministry of the Interior or Greek consulate. Delays are common if the ancestral records are hard to retrieve or if intermediate family members also need to apply first.
Do I need to renounce my current nationality?
No, Greece allows dual citizenship. You are not required to renounce your current nationality when acquiring Greek citizenship by descent.
Will my children automatically get Greek citizenship if I obtain it?
If your children are minors at the time you acquire Greek citizenship, they may also be eligible to obtain citizenship automatically or through a simplified process. If they are adults, they will need to submit a separate application, supported by your citizenship status and proof of descent.
Do I need to pass language or culture exams for citizenship by descent?
No, applicants for Greek citizenship by descent are exempt from the language and cultural knowledge exams (which are required for naturalization through residency). You only need to prove your lineage through proper documentation.
What are the fees to apply for Greek citizenship by descent?
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