EU Citizenship: How to Become an EU Citizen and Get a European Passport

What is EU citizenship?

EU citizenship is a legal status granted to anyone who holds national citizenship in an EU Member State. In other words, if you are a citizen of any of the 27 countries currently in the European Union (EU), you automatically become an EU citizen.

This status was introduced under the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and reinforced by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.

Unlike national citizenship, which ties you to a specific country like France or Germany, EU citizenship provides additional rights that apply across the entire EU territory. It does not replace your national citizenship but complements it, offering a broader set of freedoms and protections.

Difference between national citizenship and EU citizenship

• National citizenship: Granted by individual EU countries according to their own laws. This determines your passport, national voting rights, and eligibility for certain benefits.
• EU citizenship: Granted automatically to all nationals of EU countries. It adds cross-border rights, such as freedom of movement, the ability to live and work in any EU state, and participation in European elections.

Key EU citizenship rights

Under EU law, being an EU citizen gives you:

• Freedom of movement: Live, work, study, or retire in any EU Member State without a special residence permit.
• Consular protection: If you are outside the EU in a foreign country where your nation has no embassy, you can seek consular protection or help from any EU Member State’s embassy.
• Political rights: Vote and run for office in European Parliament elections and municipal elections in your country of residence.
• Access to services: Healthcare, education, and social benefits under the same conditions as local citizens.
• Right to petition: Appeal the European Parliament and lodge complaints with the European Ombudsman regarding EU administration.

EU citizenship essentially provides an additional layer of rights and freedoms on top of your national citizenship, making it one of the most valuable citizenship statuses globally.

Benefits of EU Citizenship

Holding EU citizenship unlocks some of the most powerful rights and privileges in the world. These benefits extend beyond your home country and apply across all 27 EU Member States, making life, work, and travel significantly easier.

1. Freedom of movement across the EU

One of the most valuable rights is freedom of movement, guaranteed by EU law. As an EU citizen, you can:

• Live, work, or retire in any EU country without needing a visa or work permit.
• Move permanently or temporarily for studies, career opportunities, or lifestyle choices.
• Enjoy simplified processes for registering permanent residence compared to non-EU citizens.

2. Visa-free travel worldwide

An EU passport, which comes with EU citizenship, is among the strongest in the world:

• Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 170+ countries.
• Seamless travel within the Schengen Area, which includes most EU countries, without border checks.

3. Work and study opportunities

EU citizens can:

• Work in any EU Member State without needing a special permit.
• Access the same job markets and protections as local citizens.
• Pay domestic tuition fees at universities in any EU country, often much lower than fees for international students.

4. Access to healthcare and social services

With EU citizenship, you benefit from:

• Public healthcare in any EU country, often under the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) scheme.
• Social benefits like pensions and unemployment allowances under EU regulations.

5. Political rights

EU citizens have:

• The right to vote and stand as a candidate in European Parliament elections.
• The ability to participate in municipal elections in their country of permanent residence, even if it’s not their country of nationality.

6. Consular protection worldwide

If you are in a non-EU country where your nation has no diplomatic mission, you can seek help from the embassy or consulate of any other EU Member State.

7. Petition and complaint rights

• You can petition the European Parliament on matters of EU law.
• You have the right to complain to the European Ombudsman about maladministration by EU institutions.

How to Get EU Citizenship

There are several ways to become an EU citizen, depending on your family heritage, residency status, or other qualifying circumstances. Below are the main pathways: birthright, ancestry, naturalization, marriage, and investment.

Citizenship by birth

Citizenship by birth (also called birthright citizenship) means children born in an EU Member State or to parents with EU nationality can acquire EU citizenship through birth.

Most EU countries follow jus sanguinis (citizenship through parents), while a few apply limited jus soli (citizenship by place of birth). Rules vary by country, and in some cases, residency requirements or extra conditions apply. Below is a table on which EU countries have birthright citizenship:

Citizenship by ancestry

The easiest way to get EU citizenship is through ancestry if your parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents were citizens of an EU country. Many nations, such as Italy, Ireland, Poland, and Hungary, allow you to claim citizenship by descent.

If you’re wondering how to get EU citizenship through European ancestry, the rules vary by country, including how many generations back you can apply. Below are examples of countries offering EU citizenship by descent:

Citizenship by naturalization

Citizenship by naturalization is another common route to EU citizenship, available after legally living in a country for a set number of years. To qualify, you typically need to:

• • Demonstrate language proficiency.
  • Pass cultural or integration tests.

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• Maintain a clean criminal record.

 

Once you’ve met these requirements, you can apply for citizenship, usually after 5 to 10 years of residency. Here are the standard naturalization periods across EU countries:

Citizenship by marriage

Citizenship by marriage allows non-EU citizens to acquire EU citizenship by marrying a national of an EU country. Most countries require 3 to 5 years of marriage (and in some cases, cohabitation) before applying. Applicants usually need to demonstrate language proficiency, integration, and a clean record. Once granted, you can live, work, and travel freely across the EU. Below are the residency requirements in EU countries via citizenship through marriage:

Citizenship by investment

EU citizenship by investment is rare, but some countries offer investment programs or Golden Visas as a pathway. Golden Visas grant residency through investment, and after maintaining your investment and meeting residency criteria, you can apply for citizenship. Malta is the only EU country offering direct citizenship by investment under strict conditions, with timelines ranging from 12 to 36 months. These routes are faster than traditional naturalization but require significant financial commitments.

Portugal Golden Visa

Portugal’s Golden Visa program is one of the most popular in Europe, offering flexible investment options and a short residency requirement.

• Minimum investment: €250,000 (business, research, job creation)
• Residency: Granted within months; stay requirement: 7 days/year
• Citizenship: Eligible after 5 years of residency, basic language test, and proof of integration

Malta Citizenship and Residency by Investment

Malta offers two distinct pathways for foreign investors: Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services (CES) and the Malta Permanent Residence Program (MPRP). Both options are regulated under strict due diligence standards and provide travel access to the European Union and the Schengen Area.

• Malta Citizenship by Investment:This route grants Maltese citizenship through a process of naturalization for exceptional services by direct investment. It is one of the most reputable citizenship programs in the EU.

  Investment requirements:

  • Government contribution:
    • €750,000: minimum 12-month residence period.
    • €600,000: minimum 36-month residence period.
  • Property commitment:
    • Purchase a property worth at least €700,000, OR
    • Lease a property for a minimum of €16,000 annually (for 5 years).
  • Philanthropic donation:
    • €10,000 to an approved Maltese NGO.

  Successful applicants receive full Maltese and EU citizenship, granting the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the EU and visa-free access to over 180 countries.

• Malta Residency by Investment:

The Malta Permanent Residence Program offers permanent residency rights to investors and their families, with no minimum stay requirement.

Investment requirements:

• Government contribution:
  • €30,000 if purchasing property.
  • €60,000 if leasing property.
• Property commitment:
  • Purchase a property worth at least €375,000, OR
  • Lease a property for a minimum of €14,000 annually.
• Philanthropic donation:
  • €2,000 to a registered Maltese NGO.

While residency holders can apply for Maltese citizenship after five years of residence, approvals are extremely rare and not guaranteed. Applicants seeking a direct and secure path to citizenship should consider the CES program instead.

Cyprus Golden Visa

Cyprus’ Golden Visa provides residency through real estate investment with a clear path to citizenship.

• Minimum investment: €300,000 (real estate).
• Residency: Immediate.
• Citizenship: Eligible after 7 years.
• Benefits: Visa-free travel to 170+ countries and full Schengen zone access.

Greece Golden Visa

Known for its low investment threshold, Greece’s Golden Visa offers easy residency and long-term EU benefits.

• Minimum investment: €250,000 (real estate).
• Residency: Immediate; live, work, and study in Greece.
• Citizenship: Eligible after 7 years.
• Benefits: Schengen travel and visa-free access to 170+ countries.

Italy Golden Visa

Italy’s Golden Visa combines investment with lifestyle benefits, offering residency and eventual citizenship.

• Minimum investment: €250,000 (government bonds) or €500,000 (real estate).
• Residency: Immediate.
• Citizenship: Eligible after 10 years.
• Benefits: Schengen zone access and Italian passport provides visa-free travel to 170+ countries.

Serbia Residency by Investment

Serbia’s Residency by Investment program offers a simpler pathway through real estate purchase, leading to long-term residency.

• Minimum investment: No fixed minimum; purchase real estate.
• Residency: Immediate.
• Citizenship: Pathway available after several years of legal residence.

Latvia Golden Visa

Latvia’s Golden Visa program offers multiple investment options with relatively fast access to EU residency.

• Minimum investment: €250,000 (real estate) or €50,000 (business).
• Residency: Immediate.
• Citizenship: Eligible after 5 years of residency and meeting requirements.

Hungary Golden Visa

The Hungary Golden Visa program was recently relaunched with attractive investment terms for long-term residence.

• Minimum investment: €250,000 (real estate fund).
• Residency: 10-year renewable permanent residence permit.
• Citizenship: Eligible after 8 years of residency.
• Benefits: Live in Hungary and travel freely within the Schengen Zone.

Requirements to Apply for EU Citizenship

Each EU Member State has its own rules for granting citizenship, but there are common requirements that most applicants must meet. Understanding these in advance can help you avoid delays and improve your chances of success.

1. Proof of identity and nationality

Applicants must provide a valid passport, birth certificate, and often additional identification documents. These confirm your identity and current nationality. If applying for citizenship by descent, you’ll need official documents that establish a clear lineage to your EU ancestor.

2. Clean criminal record

A background check is mandatory for all applicants. You will typically need to provide police clearance certificates from your country of origin and any countries where you have resided. Even minor offenses can complicate your application, so ensure all records are accurate and up to date.

3. Proof of financial stability

Most EU countries require evidence that you can support yourself without becoming a burden on the state. Acceptable proof includes:

• Employment contracts
• Bank statements
• Tax returns
• Proof of regular income or sufficient savings

Some countries also check for outstanding debts or bankruptcies.

4. Language and integration tests

Language proficiency is often a key requirement for naturalization and citizenship by marriage applications. Most countries require you to:

• Pass a language test at A2 or B1 level (depending on the country).
• Demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the country’s laws, national history and culture through an integration exam or interview.

This ensures applicants are well-integrated into society.

5. Special documentation for ancestry applications

For citizenship by descent, you must provide official civil documents linking you to your EU ancestor, such as:

• Birth, marriage, and death certificates for each generation
• Naturalization records (to confirm your ancestor did not renounce citizenship)
• Apostilles and certified translations if required

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions about EU Citizenship

What is EU citizenship?

EU citizenship is a legal status automatically granted to nationals of any EU Member State.

It provides rights such as free movement across the EU, the ability to live, work, and study in any EU country, access to healthcare, and voting rights in European Parliament and local municipal elections.

Can a US citizen become an EU citizen?

Yes. Americans can get EU citizenship through several pathways: ancestry, naturalization, marriage, or in rare cases, citizenship by investment programs.

Each EU country has its own rules, so eligibility depends on your family heritage or residency history.

How can I get EU citizenship?

You can obtain EU citizenship by:

• Birth or descent (jus sanguinis).
• Naturalization after living in an EU country for a set number of years.
• Marriage to an EU citizen.
• Special programs, such as investment options in some countries. This automatically grants you an EU passport and associated rights.

How to get EU citizenship through ancestry?

Many EU countries, like Italy, Ireland, and Poland, allow you to claim citizenship if you have parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents from that country. You need official documents like birth, marriage, and death certificates, to prove your lineage.

How to get an EU passport as an American?

The easiest way for U.S. citizens to get an EU passport is through ancestry-based citizenship in countries such as Ireland or Italy.

Alternatively, Americans can apply through naturalization, which typically requires 5 to 10 years of legal residency in an EU country.

What are the benefits of EU citizenship?

Benefits include:

• Freedom of movement within all 27 EU countries.
• Visa-free travel to 170+ countries.
• Access to healthcare and education across the EU.
• Work and residence rights in any EU member state.
• Political rights, such as voting in EU and local elections.

How long does it take to get EU citizenship?

Timelines vary:

• By descent or ancestry: Often under a year once documents are ready.
• By naturalization: Usually 5 to 10 years of residency is required.
• By marriage: Some countries allow for citizenship after 2 to 3 years
• By investment: These routes can be faster but are rare in the European Union.

Can I get EU citizenship without living in the EU?

Yes, if you qualify through ancestry or certain investment programs, you usually do not need to live in the EU.

However, the naturalization route always requires continuous residency.

What documents do I need for EU citizenship through descent?

For citizenship by descent or ancestry, you typically need:

• Your birth certificate,
• Birth, marriage, and death certificates of at least one ancestor.
• Proof of no renunciation of original citizenship

Remember that documents often need to be translated, legalized, or apostilled.

Is DNA evidence accepted for EU citizenship by ancestry?

No. DNA tests are not accepted.

Only official civil records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates can prove your eligibility.

What’s the difference between EU residency and EU citizenship?

EU residency allows you to live in one European Union country at a time but doesn’t grant full freedom of movement throughout the region or political rights.

EU citizenship is tied to national citizenship and gives unrestricted access to live, work, and study in any EU country as well as the right to hold an EU passport.

What is the fastest way to get EU citizenship?

The quickest route is usually citizenship by descent, which can be immediate once verified.

Some investment programs in countries like Malta offer expedited citizenship, but these require high financial contributions and strict vetting.

Can I have dual citizenship with an EU country and the USA?

Yes, most EU countries allow dual citizenship, so Americans can keep their U.S. passport while obtaining an EU passport.

However, some EU countries, like Austria, would require you to renounce US citizenship unless you qualify for an exception.