Belgium Citizenship by Descent: Complete Guide 2025
Claim Belgium citizenship through your Belgium ancestors. Get EU citizenship with access to 27 European countries.
What is Belgium Citizenship by Descent?
Belgium citizenship by descent allows individuals with Belgium heritage to claim citizenship through their parents. This pathway recognizes the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood), allowing those with Belgium ancestry to reclaim their heritage and gain EU citizenship.
Key Benefits of Belgium Citizenship
- EU Citizenship: Live, work, and study in any of 27 EU countries
- Strong Passport: Visa-free travel to 188 destinations
- No Residency Requirement: Can obtain without living in Belgium
- 1-Generation Eligibility: Up to 1 generation back
- Dual Citizenship: Keep your original nationality
Belgium Citizenship Costs: Complete Breakdown
Detailed Cost Breakdown:
Government Application Fee
RequiredOfficial Belgium nationality application fee
Standard fee for citizenship by descent applications
Document Collection
RequiredBirth, marriage, and death certificates from various registries
Belgium civil registry documents and international certificates
Document Translations
RequiredCertified translations of non-Dutch documents
All foreign documents must be translated by certified translators
Apostille Authentication
RequiredApostille stamps for international document authentication
Required for all foreign documents
Dutch Language Test
RequiredA2 level proficiency test
A2 level required for citizenship
Legal Consultation
OptionalImmigration lawyer assistance with application
Recommended for complex cases
Important Cost Considerations:
- Belgium allows 1 generation (parents only) for citizenship by descent
- Processing times typically 3-6 months
- Must demonstrate A2 level Dutch proficiency
- Dual citizenship is allowed
- All foreign documents need apostille and certified translation
- Success rate approximately 88% for complete applications
💡 Money-Saving Tips:
- Order documents yourself instead of using agencies (save $200-500)
- Do translations through certified freelancers vs law firms (save $300-800)
- Apply directly to consulates rather than through services (save $1000+)
- Research your family tree yourself before hiring genealogists
Belgium Citizenship by Descent Requirements
You Qualify If:
- You have a Belgium parent
- Your Belgium ancestor retained their citizenship
- You can prove the family lineage with official documents
- You can demonstrate A2 level Dutch proficiency
- You have no serious criminal convictions
You Don't Qualify If:
- Your Belgium ancestor formally renounced their citizenship
- You cannot obtain the required official documentation
- Your Belgium ancestor is more than 1 generation back
- You have serious criminal convictions
Belgium Citizenship by Descent Process: Step-by-Step
Verify Belgium Ancestry
Confirm you have Belgium parent who retained citizenship
💡 Tip: Belgium allows up to 1 generation for citizenship by descent
Collect Required Documents
Gather all birth, marriage, and death certificates proving Belgium lineage
💡 Tip: Documents must be apostilled and translated
Dutch Language Test
Take A2 Dutch language test
💡 Tip: A2 level required
Submit Citizenship Application
Apply at Belgium consulate or in Brussels
💡 Tip: Can apply at consulate abroad or directly in country
Application Review and Processing
Belgium authorities review application and verify documents
💡 Tip: Processing times vary based on complexity and current demand
Receive Citizenship Certificate
Receive official Belgium nationality certificate
💡 Tip: Certificate proves citizenship and allows passport application
Apply for Belgium Passport
Use citizenship certificate to obtain passport
💡 Tip: Provides full EU travel and residence rights
Frequently Asked Questions
How far back can I trace Belgium ancestry for citizenship?
Belgium allows citizenship by descent for one generation (parents only).
Do I need to speak Dutch to get Belgium citizenship by descent?
No, Belgium does not require language proficiency for citizenship by descent, making the process more accessible.
How much does Belgium citizenship by descent cost?
Total costs typically range from €150-800, including application fees, document costs, translations, and apostilles.
How long does the Belgium citizenship process take?
The process typically takes 3-6 months from application submission to citizenship approval. Processing times vary based on case complexity and current demand.
Can I keep my original citizenship when becoming Belgian?
Yes, Belgium allows dual citizenship, so you can keep your original nationality when obtaining Belgium citizenship.