What is citizenship by descent?

Citizenship by descent (CBD) is the legal right to acquire a country's citizenship through one's ancestors, based on the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood). Over 90 countries offer some form of citizenship by descent.

Which countries offer citizenship by descent?

Over 90 countries offer CBD. The most accessible include Italy, Ireland, Poland, Germany, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Canada, Spain, and Portugal.

How long does citizenship by descent take?

Timelines vary by country. Italy: 12-36 months. Ireland: 9-18 months. Poland: 12-24 months. Germany: 12-30 months. Mexico: 6-14 months. Brazil: 6-12 months.

Can I have dual citizenship?

In most cases yes. The US, Canada, UK, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Italy, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, and most EU states permit dual citizenship. Notable exceptions: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Japan, China, Singapore.

How much does citizenship by descent cost?

Costs vary by country. Typical all-in fixed fees: Italy $8,000-$25,000, Ireland $4,000-$9,000, Poland $5,000-$15,000, Germany $8,000-$25,000, Mexico $3,000-$8,000, Brazil $3,000-$7,000.

Is the consultation confidential?

Yes. Every consultation is confidential. Nothing you share can be disclosed without your consent. When you're matched with a professional in our network, that professional's own confidentiality and privilege policies apply to your engagement.

How long does the consultation take?

The first consultation is 90 minutes for video and in-office meetings, or 60 minutes for phone calls.

Is the consultation really free?

Yes. The first 90 minutes are confidential, candid, and free of charge. No retainer required.

What should I prepare for the consultation?

Bring whatever you know about your ancestor: full name, date and place of birth, country of origin, emigration date, naturalization status, and any documents you already have.

How quickly will I hear back after requesting a consultation?

We reply to every consultation request within 24 hours, in your timezone.

What consultation formats are available?

We offer private video consultation (90 minutes), in-office meeting (90 minutes, available in New York, Lisbon, and Mexico City), and telephone call (60 minutes).

Do I need to commit to anything after the consultation?

No. The consultation is free and carries no obligation.

What languages are consultations available in?

Case leads are available in seven languages: English, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, and Polish.

Pillar guide

Brazilian Citizenship by Descent

Brazilian citizenship by descent (filiação) has no generational limit — any descendant of a Brazilian can claim citizenship. With a typical timeline of 6-12 months, it's one of the fastest CBD programs in the world. Brazil permits dual citizenship.

Last reviewed July 2026 by Ancestra editorial team

Cartório registration

After citizenship is recognized, the new citizen is registered at a cartório (notary office) in Brazil, which issues the Brazilian birth certificate (certidão de nascimento) that serves as proof of citizenship. The process can be completed at a Brazilian consulate abroad or directly with a cartório in Brazil.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is there a generational limit for Brazilian citizenship?

No. Brazilian nationality passes by filiação (filiation) without limit. Any descendant of a Brazilian — parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, or further — can claim citizenship.

Related resources

Everything related to Brazilian Citizenship by Descent

Brazil country guide

Full guide

Brazil checklist (grandparent)

Checklist

Mexico vs Brazil comparison

Comparison

Ready to start your case?

Run our free 4-minute eligibility check. A case lead will tell you in writing whether you qualify.

Loading…