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

Canadian Citizenship by Descent

Canadian citizenship by descent was transformed by Bill C-71 (2025), which restored citizenship to beyond-first-generation descendants of Canadians born abroad. The substantial connection test requires 1,095 days (3 years) of physical presence in Canada. Bill C-71 also retroactively reinstates citizenship for 'Lost Canadians.'

Last reviewed July 2026 by Ancestra editorial team

Bill C-71 (2025)

Bill C-71, the Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act, received Royal Assent on June 20, 2024, and came into force in 2025. It restored Canadian citizenship to second-generation and beyond descendants of Canadian citizens born abroad — addressing the 'Lost Canadian' problem that affected families since the 2009 and 2015 amendments.

First-generation born abroad remain citizens by right. Second-generation+ must meet the substantial connection test: 1,095 days of physical presence in Canada.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is the substantial connection test?

The substantial connection test under Bill C-71 requires 1,095 days (3 years) of cumulative physical presence in Canada before applying. Days can be at any point in the applicant's life and do not need to be consecutive. First-generation born abroad are exempt.

Related resources

Everything related to Canadian Citizenship by Descent

Canada country guide

Full guide

Canada checklist (parent)

Checklist

Glossary: Bill C-71

The 2025 reform

Glossary: Lost Canadian

The Lost Canadian problem

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