For millions of people around the world, Greece represents more than just a Mediterranean paradise. It’s the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and timeless culture. But if you have Greek roots, your connection to Greece could go far deeper — through citizenship by descent.

Greek citizenship by descent (jus sanguinis, or “right of blood”) allows those with Greek parents, grandparents, or in some cases even great-grandparents, to claim Greek nationality. This pathway not only reconnects you with your heritage but also opens the door to the full benefits of European Union (EU) citizenship — including the ability to live, work, and travel freely across all 27 EU member states.

At Apostille-USA, we specialize in ensuring your U.S. documents are properly legalized for use in Greece. In this guide, we’ll walk you through eligibility, the application process, the required documents, and the critical role of apostilles in making your dream of Greek citizenship a reality.

Greek nationality law is based on the principle of jus sanguinis. This means that citizenship is transmitted through bloodline rather than place of birth. The rules are generous but precise:

• Children of Greek citizens
  If at least one of your parents was a Greek citizen at the time of your birth, you are typically entitled to Greek citizenship automatically, no matter where you were born.
• Grandchildren of Greek citizens
  If your grandparent was a Greek citizen and registered in a Greek municipal registry (Dimotologio) or male register (Mitroo Arenon), you may qualify. This requires proving uninterrupted descent and official registration.
• Great-grandchildren of Greek citizens
  Possible in some cases, but only if each generation has their citizenship formally recognized first. For example, your parent would need to apply first before you could proceed.
• Ethnic Greeks abroad
  Special provisions sometimes exist for ethnic Greeks from historic communities (e.g., the former Soviet Union or Balkans), though these are handled case by case.

Key Point: Unlike some countries, Greece requires official registry records. Simply having “Greek heritage” is not enough — there must be a documented, continuous paper trail linking you to your ancestor’s recognized Greek citizenship.

To qualify, you’ll need to demonstrate one of the following:

1. Parent Connection
   Born to a Greek parent → automatic recognition (once paperwork is filed).
2. Grandparent Connection
   Eligible if you can prove lineage and your ancestor’s municipal registration.
3. Great-grandparent Connection
   Possible, but typically requires step-by-step recognition through each generation.

Special Cases
Ethnic Greeks born abroad may sometimes qualify through ministerial discretion, but this is not the standard process.

The most important part of your application is documentation. Expect to provide:

• Your documents
  • Full birth certificate
  • Valid U.S. passport or national ID
  • Proof of current residence (if applying from within Greece)
• Your ancestor’s documents
  • Birth certificate (Greek or foreign)
  • Greek passport, ID card, or military service record
  • Municipal registration proof (Dimotologio or Mitroo Arenon)
  • Marriage certificate(s)
  • Death certificate(s), if applicable
• Supporting records
  • Marriage certificates to link generations
  • Any naturalization certificates if your ancestor became a U.S. citizen

Important:
All U.S.-issued documents must be apostilled and translated into Greek by a certified translator recognized by Greek authorities. Inconsistent spelling of names or mismatched dates can cause major delays, so accuracy is critical.

Before your application can move forward, your U.S. vital records must be apostilled to meet Greece’s legal requirements. That’s where Apostille-USA makes the process seamless:

1. Complete the Order Form
   ➡️ Start here by uploading digital copies of your documents.
2. Payment & Mailing Instructions
   After payment, you’ll receive instructions on where to mail your originals. (Do not ship until after you’ve received our confirmation email.)
3. Processing
   We handle the apostille process (10–15 business days on average). Once complete, originals are securely returned to you.
4. Cost
   $249 per document, plus return shipping:

• Domestic: $65
• International: $95

1. Support
   

• Phone: +1 814 954-1523
• WhatsApp: +1 814 441 8430
• Consultation: Book here
• 📺 Quick Demo: 1-min video
  

Bottom line: Without apostilles, your U.S. documents won’t be accepted in Greece. We make sure they are.

Here’s how applying for Greek citizenship by descent generally works:

1. Determine Eligibility
   Confirm whether your claim is through a parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent.
2. Gather Documentation
   Collect all civil records (birth, marriage, death), both U.S. and Greek.
3. Apostille & Translate
   Have all U.S. documents apostilled (through Apostille-USA) and translated into Greek.
4. Submit Application
   File your application at the Greek consulate in your country of residence, or directly in the municipality in Greece where your ancestor was registered.
5. Review & Processing
   The Ministry of the Interior reviews your file. Processing may take:

• A few months if applying through a parent
• 1–3 years if applying through grandparents or beyond

1. Registration
   Once approved, you’ll be entered into Greece’s civil registry.

Identity Documents
You can then apply for a Greek ID card and passport.

Becoming a Greek citizen is more than just a passport upgrade — it’s a life-changing opportunity. Benefits include:

• EU Freedom of Movement
  Live, work, and study in all 27 EU member states and the Schengen Zone.
• Global Travel Freedom
  Greek passport = visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 190+ countries.
• Healthcare & Education
  Access to public services in Greece and across the EU.
• Business & Property Ownership
  Start a business or purchase property in Greece and other EU countries without restrictions.
• Cultural Reconnection
  Reclaim your heritage and pass it on to future generations.
• Dual Citizenship Allowed
  Keep your U.S. citizenship while gaining EU rights.

⚠️ Note: Men aged 19–45 may face mandatory military service (12 months), though exceptions exist.

While the benefits are substantial, applicants often face these hurdles:

• Missing municipal registration for ancestors
• Name inconsistencies (e.g., “Papadopoulos” vs. “Papadopulos”)
• Long processing times for multi-generational claims
• Requirement for parent to be recognized before child can apply

Pro Tip: Start with document apostilles early. Many delays happen at the paperwork stage, and this is where Apostille-USA helps applicants move quickly.

At Apostille-USA, we specialize in helping Americans with Greek ancestry overcome the most common hurdle: document authentication. Our service ensures your U.S. birth, marriage, and death certificates are accepted in Greece without delays.

With fast turnaround, transparent pricing, and personalized support, we simplify one of the most complex parts of the process. Whether you’re applying through a parent or reaching back to a grandparent or great-grandparent, we make sure your paperwork is solid.

Greek citizenship by descent is one of the most powerful — and personal — ways to secure EU citizenship. Whether your goal is reconnecting with family roots, expanding your global mobility, or securing opportunities in Europe, your journey begins with your documents.

Let Apostille-USA handle the apostille process so you can focus on your application with confidence.

➡️ Start your apostille order
➡️ Book a free consultation

Your heritage is waiting. Let’s make it official.