Citizens around the world have surnames with different origins, due to the genealogy of their families and the origin of their ancestors.
In this context, a common question is whether it is possible to obtain dual citizenship by surname and how this works. Generally, there are specific parameters that regulate this.
It is important to understand that each country has specific legislation on the naturalization of its inhabitants. Therefore, you should research thoroughly and consider the other aspects requested by the authorities.
Is it possible to obtain dual citizenship by surname?
Firstly, it is not possible to obtain dual citizenship by surname alone. This is because the right to citizenship is not extended to all descendants of a native just because they are from the same family.
Generally, the granting of citizenship by consanguinity is limited to the second generation after the naturalized person, specifically children. Furthermore, if all countries were to allow people to become citizens based on the origin of their surnames, it would be impossible to control the flow of migrants.
As a result, local authorities would not be able to keep track of their citizens. Resources would be limited in the face of the volume of new inhabitants. Other bureaucratic problems would also arise. It is precisely because of these risks that there are specific procedures for obtaining citizenship.
Nevertheless, dual citizenship by descent is a viable option. Many consulates and official bodies use the family tree as a parameter to analyze the application. It's much easier to obtain citizenship if you have a father or mother who is a native of the region, but that doesn't mean that your surname won't help the process.
Even if it doesn't guarantee 100% that your citizenship will be approved, your surname helps the process. That's why it's essential to know which documents are required, the types of citizenship and how the bureaucracy works for each one.
What types of nationality are granted?
There are various forms of citizenship and ways of being naturalized in a region other than one's own. Currently, the following possibilities are considered in international territory:
- Citizenship by jus sanguinis: is based on descent and consanguinity, and is granted upon proof of these family ties.
- Citizenship by jus solis: conferred on those born in the country, regardless of the origin of their ancestors.
- Citizenship by regular residence: refers to the naturalization of the permanent residence of individuals who were previously tourists or exchange students, for example.
- Citizenship by marriage: involves obtaining citizenship through marriage to a local citizen.
- Citizenship for investors: in some regions, such as Malta, citizenship is granted to investors who contribute financial investments to the country.
What are the procedures for obtaining citizenship in these countries?
As mentioned above, it depends on the type of citizenship you wish to obtain and also on the country in which you are applying. Check out the documents and requirements requested by the main countries with a migratory flow in the world:
United States of America
To obtain citizenship in the United States, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old when filling in the application, as naturalization is only available to adults;
- Be a legal permanent resident for the last three years in the United States or at least five years, depending on each situation, or be married to a US citizen;
- Have continuous residence and presence in the USA;
- Be able to read, speak and write in English, at least at a basic level;
- Have a good moral character and no criminal record;
- Have knowledge and understanding of US history and the workings of government;
- Demonstrate loyalty to the U.S. Constitution;
- Be willing to take the oath of allegiance and integrate as an active citizen in the country;
- Fill in application form N-400;
- Present the birth certificate or marriage certificate of a US citizen, if any;
- Submit your diploma, academic transcript and bank statement.
Portugal
To apply for citizenship in Portugal, you must:
- Legally reside in Portugal for at least 3 years or be the son or daughter of a Portuguese person;
- Being married or living in a stable union with a Portuguese person for more than 3 years;
- Present birth certificate, proof of residence with address in Portugal;
- Present a 3×4 photo;
- Present proof of payment of the specific fees for applying for citizenship;
- Present documents of Portuguese parent or Portuguese spouse, if any.
Spain
To apply for citizenship in Spain, you must:
- Have lived in Spain for at least 2 years or have been married to a Spaniard for at least 1 year;
- Being the child or grandchild of a Spanish citizen who has not been eligible for nationality for at least 1 year;
- Have been born in Spain but have not yet applied for their nationality of origin for at least 1 year;
- Have been the widow or widower of a Spanish citizen for at least 1 year;
- Present your passport;
- Present a DELE A2 Spanish certificate;
- Present a birth certificate from the country of origin, apostilled and translated;
- Present CCSE knowledge certificate.
Conclusion
Although having a local surname is not a gateway to citizenship in the country, it is one of the criteria assessed through genealogical research. However, there's no point in applying if you only have your full name, because you need to be familiar with the bureaucratic steps and procedures.
Dual citizenship requires a detailed analysis of each country and its specific requirements. So research thoroughly before starting the process to increase your chances of success.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the basic requirements for obtaining dual citizenship?
The requirements vary from country to country, but generally include proof of family ties, minimum residence in the country and no criminal record.
2. How can genealogy influence obtaining dual citizenship?
Genealogy can provide proof of descent, which is crucial in citizenship processes based on blood law (jus sanguinis).
3. Is citizenship by marriage considered dual citizenship?
Yes, as long as the country of origin and the country of destination allow the original citizenship to be maintained after marriage.
4. What documents are essential to start the citizenship process?
Birth certificates, marriage certificates, proof of residence and identification documents are generally required.
5. Can I lose my original citizenship when I get a new one?
It depends on the legislation of both countries involved. Some countries allow dual citizenship, while others require you to renounce your original citizenship.
6. Can citizenship processing times vary between countries?
Yes, the processing time can vary significantly between different countries and can take from a few months to several years.
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