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

Chile Citizenship by Descent

Chile citizenship by descent is governed by Nacionalidad por descendencia. Chilean citizenship by descent is available to children of Chilean nationals, with grandparent paths in certain eras. We file through the Servicio de Registro Civil e Identificación and Chilean consulates.

This pillar page clusters every piece of Ancestra content related to Chilen citizenship by descent — country guide, document checklists, comparisons, glossary terms, cost estimates, and eligibility assessment — in one place.

Last reviewed July 2026 by Ancestra editorial team

Who qualifies for Chile citizenship by descent?

The key thing to know: Chilean civil registry (Registro Civil) is well-organized and digitized. Records from the 19th century may require archive requests.

Transmission rule: Both parents equally.

Key rules at a glance

Generational limit: Grandparent (3rd generation). Children and grandchildren of Chilean nationals can claim.

Dual citizenship: Permitted — Chile allows dual citizenship.

Language requirement: None.

Filing authority: Servicio de Registro Civil e Identificación or Chilean consulate.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is there a generational limit for Chile citizenship by descent?

Chile: Grandparent (3rd generation). Children and grandchildren of Chilean nationals can claim.

Does Chile allow dual citizenship?

Chile: Permitted — Chile allows dual citizenship.

Related resources

Everything related to Chile Citizenship by Descent

Chile country guide

Nacionalidad por descendencia

Chile checklist (grandparent)

Complete document checklist for claiming through a grandparent

Chile checklist (parent)

Complete document checklist for claiming through a parent

Chile cost calculator

Estimate your all-in cost

Glossary: Registro Civil

The Registro Civil is the civil registry in Spain and Latin American countries that maintains record...

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