Romania Citizenship by Descent: Complete Guide 2025
Claim Romania citizenship through your Romania ancestors going back up to 3 generations. Get EU citizenship with access to 27 European countries.
What is Romania Citizenship by Descent?
Romania citizenship by descent allows individuals with Romania heritage to claim citizenship through their parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents. This pathway recognizes the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood), allowing those with Romania ancestry to reclaim their heritage and gain EU citizenship.
Key Benefits of Romania Citizenship
- EU Citizenship: Live, work, and study in any of 27 EU countries
- Strong Passport: Visa-free travel to 174 destinations
- No Residency Requirement: Can obtain without living in Romania
- 3-Generation Eligibility: Up to 3 generations back
- Dual Citizenship: Keep your original nationality
Romania Citizenship Costs: Complete Breakdown
Detailed Cost Breakdown:
Government Application Fee
RequiredOfficial Romania nationality application fee
Standard fee for citizenship by descent applications
Document Collection
RequiredBirth, marriage, and death certificates from various registries
Romania civil registry documents and international certificates
Document Translations
RequiredCertified translations of non-Romanian documents
All foreign documents must be translated by certified translators
Apostille Authentication
RequiredApostille stamps for international document authentication
Required for all foreign documents
Romanian Language Test
RequiredB1 level proficiency test
B1 level required for citizenship
Legal Consultation
OptionalImmigration lawyer assistance with application
Recommended for complex cases
Important Cost Considerations:
- Romania allows up to 3 generations for citizenship by descent
- Processing times typically 18-36 months
- Must demonstrate B1 level Romanian proficiency
- Dual citizenship is allowed
- All foreign documents need apostille and certified translation
- Success rate approximately 86% 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
Romania Citizenship by Descent Requirements
You Qualify If:
- You have a Romania parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent
- Your Romania ancestor retained their citizenship
- You can prove the family lineage with official documents
- You can demonstrate basic Romanian language skills
- You have no serious criminal convictions
You Don't Qualify If:
- Your Romania ancestor formally renounced their citizenship
- You cannot obtain the required official documentation
- Your Romania ancestor is more than 3 generations back
- You have serious criminal convictions
Romania Citizenship by Descent Process: Step-by-Step
Verify Romania Ancestry
Confirm you have Romania parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent who retained citizenship
💡 Tip: Romania allows up to 3 generations for citizenship by descent
Collect Required Documents
Gather all birth, marriage, and death certificates proving Romania lineage
💡 Tip: Documents must be apostilled and translated
Romanian Language Test
Demonstrate basic Romanian language skills
💡 Tip: Basic Romanian required
Submit Citizenship Application
Apply at Romania consulate or in Bucharest
💡 Tip: Can apply at consulate abroad or directly in country
Application Review and Processing
Romania authorities review application and verify documents
💡 Tip: Processing times vary based on complexity and current demand
Receive Citizenship Certificate
Receive official Romania nationality certificate
💡 Tip: Certificate proves citizenship and allows passport application
Apply for Romania Passport
Use citizenship certificate to obtain passport
💡 Tip: Provides full EU travel and residence rights
Frequently Asked Questions
How far back can I trace Romania ancestry for citizenship?
Romania allows citizenship by descent for up to 3 generations: parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.
Do I need to speak Romanian to get Romania citizenship by descent?
Yes, you need to demonstrate basic Romanian language skills. This requirement shows your connection to the Romania community.
How much does Romania citizenship by descent cost?
Total costs typically range from €100-500, including application fees, document costs, translations, and apostilles.
How long does the Romania citizenship process take?
The process typically takes 18-36 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 Romanian?
Yes, Romania allows dual citizenship, so you can keep your original nationality when obtaining Romania citizenship.