A passport is a crucial document for international travelers, but its strength can impact the ease of global journeys. Did you know that if you have grandparents from a different country, their nation might grant you a second passport? This is based on the principle of “ius sanguinis” or the right of blood, allowing citizenship through ancestral lineage.
So, which countries allow the issuance of a second passport through heritage?
10 Countries Providing Second Passports via Ancestral Lines
As per Travel+Leisure, individuals can obtain another passport if they have grandparents or great-grandparents born in a specific country. Here’s a list of countries that may grant you a passport if you have ancestors from there.
Germany
If your grandparents were originally from Germany but lost their citizenship under Nazi rule (1933-1945) due to reasons like religion, politics, or race, you may qualify to regain that citizenship. Demonstrating that your ancestors did not willingly renounce their citizenship is crucial.
Ireland
Ireland offers citizenship based on descent. If you were not born on the island but have a parent or grandparent born there, you are eligible for Irish citizenship. However, you need to apply for birth registration abroad to obtain an Irish passport.
Poland
Having a Polish parent or grandparent allows you to acquire dual citizenship. It’s essential that your lineage was Polish at the time of your birth. If your grandparents were Polish citizens, but your parents were not, you may not be eligible.
Italy
Italian descent can make you eligible for citizenship, irrespective of how many generations have passed since your ancestors left Italy. Proof of lineage through birth or marriage certificates is necessary to claim Italian citizenship.
United Kingdom
Gaining a passport through ancestral heritage in the UK involves a lengthy process. You need to apply for citizenship by proving that your grandparents were born there. It’s a complex procedure that requires diligence and documentation.
Spain
Applying for Spanish citizenship based on ancestry is possible if you have a parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent of Spanish origin. However, you must have legally resided in Spain for at least one year before applying.
Hungary
Hungary considers individuals with Hungarian grandparents as citizens. You can apply to verify your Hungarian citizenship, and language proficiency is not a strict requirement.
Greece
Greece values family ties and intergenerational relationships. If you have parents or grandparents who are Greek citizens, you can claim Greek citizenship by providing the necessary documents as evidence.
Lithuania
Having grandparents who were Lithuanian citizens before 1940 and left the country before 1990 might qualify you for Lithuanian citizenship. Specific documents must be submitted to prove eligibility.
Ghana
Ghana also extends passports to individuals with Ghanaian lineage. To claim it, you need to submit an official application to the Ministry of the Interior.
These countries embrace the concept of dual heritage, allowing individuals with ancestral ties to experience the benefits of a second passport. Always ensure to follow the respective application processes and provide the required documentation to make the most of this unique opportunity.