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

India Citizenship by Descent

India citizenship by descent is governed by OCI · PIO · descent registration. While India does not permit full dual citizenship, the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card grants lifelong residency and most economic rights to persons of Indian origin. We file OCI applications and handle descent registration through Indian consulates.

This pillar page clusters every piece of Ancestra content related to Indian 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 India citizenship by descent?

The key thing to know: OCI is NOT citizenship — it is a lifelong visa/residency permit. Pakistan and Bangladesh citizens are NOT eligible for OCI.

Transmission rule: OCI available to: (1) former Indian citizens, (2) children/grandchildren of Indian citizens, (3) spouses of OCI holders or Indian citizens (2+ years marriage).

Key rules at a glance

Generational limit: India does NOT permit full dual citizenship. The OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card is available to persons of Indian origin up to the 4th generation.

Dual citizenship: OCI card (not full dual citizenship) — grants lifelong residency, work, study, and property rights in India but NOT voting rights, public office, or Indian passport.

Language requirement: None for OCI.

Filing authority: Indian consulate or FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office).

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is there a generational limit for India citizenship by descent?

India: India does NOT permit full dual citizenship. The OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card is available to persons of Indian origin up to the 4th generation.

Does India allow dual citizenship?

India: OCI card (not full dual citizenship) — grants lifelong residency, work, study, and property rights in India but NOT voting rights, public office, or Indian passport.

Related resources

Everything related to India Citizenship by Descent

India country guide

OCI · PIO · descent registration

India checklist (grandparent)

Complete document checklist for claiming through a grandparent

India checklist (parent)

Complete document checklist for claiming through a parent

India cost calculator

Estimate your all-in cost

Glossary: OCI Card

The OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card is the Indian document granting lifelong residency and most...

Glossary: PIO

PIO (Person of Indian Origin) was a card for persons of Indian origin, merged into the OCI scheme in...

Ready to start your case?

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

Loading…