Cyprus citizenship by descent: are you eligible?

Who Can Get Cyprus Citizenship by Descent?

Cyprus allows people to become citizens through family bloodlines. If your parent or grandparent was a Cypriot citizen, you may be eligible. The key requirement is that the citizenship must pass down through an unbroken line — meaning your relative who was Cypriot must have been a citizen at the time your parent (or you, if claiming through a grandparent) was born.

Even if you were born outside Cyprus, you can still apply. Many people living in other countries successfully claim Cypriot citizenship this way.

What Documents You'll Need

To apply, gather documents that prove your family connection:

• Birth certificates for yourself and the relative through whom you're claiming
• Marriage certificates (if your surname changed or if the relative married)
• Death certificates (if the relative has passed away)
• Proof of citizenship for your Cypriot ancestor — often an old passport, ID card, or official records
• Divorce decrees (if applicable to your family history)

All documents must be official copies. Some may need to be translated into Greek or English, depending on what language they're in. You may also need official verification that these documents are authentic.

Legitimate vs. Illegitimate Children

Cyprus recognizes children born outside marriage when claiming citizenship by descent, but you'll need to provide proof of your relationship to the Cypriot relative. This might include acknowledgment documents or DNA tests in some cases. The rules can vary, so check with the official immigration authority.

Where to Apply

Contact the Civil Registry office in Cyprus or the nearest Cypriot embassy or consulate in your country. They can tell you exactly which documents they need and whether yours meets their standards. Processing times vary, so apply early if you need the citizenship by a specific date.

Next Steps

Start by gathering your family documents now. Then contact your local Cypriot consulate or the Civil Registry to confirm what you need. They may ask for additional paperwork based on your specific situation.

Remember that rules can change, and each application is unique depending on family circumstances.

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.