Citizenship by descent has become a privileged pathway to obtain the European passport. Whether through ties to Spain, Italy or another EU country, more and more people are looking to reconstruct their family tree to claim their citizenship rights. However, the process is not without obstacles: lost certificates, misspelled names, documents in archaic languages…
In this article, we offer you a practical guide with the best tips to successfully certify your lineage, and explain how Orience turns this challenge into a secure path toward your new passport.
Why certify your lineage?
Citizenship by descent programs allow those who prove family ties with European citizens to apply for nationality without the need to reside in the country for years. This option is especially popular in countries like Italy, Spain, Ireland, or Poland. But to take advantage of this, you must documentarily prove your kinship up to the original ancestor.
1. Locate the key certificates in your family tree
The first step to obtaining citizenship by lineage is to gather the documents that prove your connection. This is where many people get stuck, not knowing where to start. Here are some effective tips:
- Start with the most recent: your birth certificate, those of your parents and grandparents. These documents will give you clues about names, dates, and places.
- Check civil and church records: in many countries, parishes kept records before there was an official civil registry. Orience can help you contact archives in Spain, Italy, Argentina, Mexico, and others.
- Access digital archives: databases like FamilySearch, Antenati, MyHeritage, or PARES offer millions of digitized records.
2. How to deal with errors in names and dates
It is very common for documents to contain small differences that could invalidate your application if not properly justified:
- Typographical errors: a “Giuseppe” miswritten as “Joseph” or a “María” without the accent. In these cases, an affidavit or additional proof can be submitted.
- Inexact dates: if there are variations between certificates, it will be important to prioritize the oldest version or officially rectify it.
- Surname changes or double surnames: especially between countries with different traditions (e.g., Spain vs. USA). Orience guides you in each case.
3. Correctly translate and legalize your documents
All foreign documents must be translated and legalized:
- Certified translation: required in the language of the country where you are applying for citizenship.
- Hague Apostille: necessary for a document to have international validity.
Orience collaborates with official translators and helps you manage the entire process without errors that could delay your file.
4. Create a clear and chronological family line
One of the aspects most valued by consulates is clarity in presentation. It is not enough to submit the certificates; you must also demonstrate the connection between generations. To do this:
- Prepare a genealogical chart with names, dates, and places.
- Organize the documents in chronological order.
- Include marriage certificates, death certificates, and others that reinforce the family narrative.
5. Let Orience accompany you every step of the way
With more than a decade of experience in international mobility, Orience has successfully processed hundreds of citizenships by lineage. Our team of experts in genealogy, translation, and comparative law offers you:
- Free feasibility study of your case.
- Search for documentation in archives from different countries.
- Legal correction of errors in certificates or records.
- Strategic presentation of the file before the competent authority.
Don’t let a minor error or a missing document frustrate your right. With Orience, your family history becomes your European citizenship.
Conclusion
Obtaining citizenship by descent requires patience, documentary rigor, and legal knowledge. But with the right tools and support, the process becomes much more accessible. If you believe you have European roots and want to reclaim your heritage, now is the time. Orience guides you step by step, from the first certificate to the final passport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if one of my ancestors changed their name when emigrating?
This is very common. In such cases, additional documents or notarized declarations can be submitted to prove it is the same person. Orience advises you on how to structure the evidence.
Can I submit scanned documents or do I need originals?
In most cases, certified copies or legalized originals are required. Orience will inform you of the requirements of each consulate or local authority.
Can I include documents in English or must they always be translated?
All documents must be submitted officially translated into the language of the country where you apply for citizenship. Orience works with sworn translators in all European countries.
What if I cannot find an old certificate?
There are alternative ways to prove the connection, such as censuses, wills, or church records. Orience can help you build a solid file.
Can I start the process from my country of residence?
Yes, many procedures can be done abroad through consulates. Orience offers international services and accompanies you remotely until the process is complete.