Obtaining Greek citizenship involves various routes
Obtaining Greek citizenship involves various routes, each with distinct criteria and processes. Birthright citizenship is granted if born in Greece to at least one Greek parent. Marriage to a Greek citizen offers another pathway, requiring a three-year marriage and stable residence. Long-term legal residency, typically seven years, may lead to citizenship. There are also provisions for those of Greek ethnic origin and investors.
Obtaining Greek citizenship involves various routes
1. Birthright
One of the most fundamental ways to acquire Greek citizenship is through birthright. If you are born in Greece to at least one parent who is a Greek citizen, you are automatically entitled to Greek citizenship. This applies even if your other parent is a foreign citizen.
2. Marriage to a Greek Citizen
If you are married to a Greek citizen, you have the opportunity to apply for Greek citizenship. The marriage must be registered, and you must have been married for at least three years. You must also demonstrate stable and legal residence in Greece.
3. Children of Greek Citizens
If you have a child born in wedlock with a Greek citizen, your child can automatically apply for Greek citizenship, regardless of where they were born. This applies even if the other parent is not a Greek citizen.
4. Long-term Residence
If you have resided in Greece for at least 7 years with legal status and have stable economic and social ties to the country, you can apply for citizenship. You must also have completed a certain period of military service or civil service if applicable.
5. Greek Ethnic Origin (Ethnic Greeks)
Individuals of Greek ethnic origin born outside Greece can apply for Greek citizenship through a simplified procedure. They must be able to prove their Greek ethnic origin and a certain connection to Greece.
6. Investment in Greece
Greece has an investment program offering citizenship to individuals who invest a significant sum of money in the country, such as through real estate purchases or business investments.
7. Asylum and Refugee Status
Individuals granted asylum or refugee status in Greece may, in some cases, apply for citizenship after a certain period of settlement and meeting other requirements.
8. Specific Professions or Talents
Greece may also grant citizenship to foreign citizens deemed to have special professional skills or artistic talents that are of national interest.
It is important to note that the requirements for obtaining Greek citizenship can vary depending on individual circumstances and may change over time. Therefore, it is always wise to consult the Greek authorities or a legal advisor to obtain up-to-date information and guidance on the citizenship process in Greece.