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

UAE Citizenship by Descent

UAE citizenship by descent is governed by UAE citizenship — descent (paternal). UAE citizenship by descent is transmitted through the father. Children of Emirati fathers are citizens automatically. Children of Emirati mothers and foreign fathers can formally acquire citizenship upon reaching 18. The UAE adjusted its laws to allow dual citizenship under specific professional/investor conditions.

This pillar page clusters every piece of Ancestra content related to UAEn 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 UAE citizenship by descent?

The key thing to know: The UAE's 2021 dual citizenship reform was a significant shift in GCC policy, but it applies only to investors, professionals, and their families — not to general descent claims.

Transmission rule: Paternal automatic. Maternal: conditional, requires application at 18 with residency and other conditions.

Key rules at a glance

Generational limit: 1 generation. Children of Emirati fathers are citizens automatically. Children of Emirati mothers and foreign fathers can formally acquire citizenship at age 18.

Dual citizenship: Conditional — UAE adjusted its laws in 2021 to allow dual citizenship under specific professional/investor conditions. Not available to the general public.

Language requirement: Arabic required for naturalization.

Filing authority: Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA).

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is there a generational limit for UAE citizenship by descent?

UAE: 1 generation. Children of Emirati fathers are citizens automatically. Children of Emirati mothers and foreign fathers can formally acquire citizenship at age 18.

Does UAE allow dual citizenship?

UAE: Conditional — UAE adjusted its laws in 2021 to allow dual citizenship under specific professional/investor conditions. Not available to the general public.

Related resources

Everything related to UAE Citizenship by Descent

UAE country guide

UAE citizenship — descent (paternal)

UAE checklist (grandparent)

Complete document checklist for claiming through a grandparent

UAE checklist (parent)

Complete document checklist for claiming through a parent

UAE cost calculator

Estimate your all-in cost

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