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

Luxembourg Citizenship by Descent

Luxembourg citizenship by descent is governed by Nationalité luxembourgeoise — descent. Luxembourgish citizenship by descent was significantly expanded by the 2017 reform (Article 7), allowing descendants of Luxembourg emigrants (1890–1940 era) to reclaim citizenship. We file through the Ministry of Justice and coordinate with the Luxembourg City Archives.

This pillar page clusters every piece of Ancestra content related to Luxembourgn 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 Luxembourg citizenship by descent?

The key thing to know: The Article 7 window (2017-2023, extended to 2024) was a limited-time opportunity for descendants of emigrants. The standard grandparent rule remains available indefinitely.

Transmission rule: Both parents equally since 2008. Before 2008, paternal only.

Key rules at a glance

Generational limit: Up to grandparent (3rd generation). The 2017 reform (Article 7) opened claims for descendants of Luxembourgers who emigrated between 1890 and 1940.

Dual citizenship: Permitted — Luxembourg allows dual citizenship.

Language requirement: A2 Luxembourgish for naturalization (not required for Article 7 recovery path).

Filing authority: Ministry of Justice (Luxembourg City) or Luxembourg consulate.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is there a generational limit for Luxembourg citizenship by descent?

Luxembourg: Up to grandparent (3rd generation). The 2017 reform (Article 7) opened claims for descendants of Luxembourgers who emigrated between 1890 and 1940.

Does Luxembourg allow dual citizenship?

Luxembourg: Permitted — Luxembourg allows dual citizenship.

Related resources

Everything related to Luxembourg Citizenship by Descent

Luxembourg country guide

Nationalité luxembourgeoise — descent

Luxembourg checklist (grandparent)

Complete document checklist for claiming through a grandparent

Luxembourg checklist (parent)

Complete document checklist for claiming through a parent

Luxembourg cost calculator

Estimate your all-in cost

Ready to start your case?

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

Loading…