Slovenia Citizenship by Descent: Complete Guide 2025
Claim Slovenia citizenship through your Slovenia ancestors. Get EU citizenship with access to 27 European countries.
What is Slovenia Citizenship by Descent?
Slovenia citizenship by descent allows individuals with Slovenia heritage to claim citizenship through their parents. This pathway recognizes the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood), allowing those with Slovenia ancestry to reclaim their heritage and gain EU citizenship.
Key Benefits of Slovenia Citizenship
- EU Citizenship: Live, work, and study in any of 27 EU countries
- Strong Passport: Visa-free travel to 183 destinations
- No Residency Requirement: Can obtain without living in Slovenia
- 1-Generation Eligibility: Up to 1 generation back
- Dual Citizenship: Keep your original nationality
Slovenia Citizenship Costs: Complete Breakdown
Detailed Cost Breakdown:
Government Application Fee
RequiredOfficial Slovenia nationality application fee
Standard fee for citizenship by descent applications
Document Collection
RequiredBirth, marriage, and death certificates from various registries
Slovenia civil registry documents and international certificates
Document Translations
RequiredCertified translations of non-Slovene documents
All foreign documents must be translated by certified translators
Apostille Authentication
RequiredApostille stamps for international document authentication
Required for all foreign documents
Slovene 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:
- Slovenia allows 1 generation (parents only) for citizenship by descent
- Processing times typically 6-12 months
- Must demonstrate B1 level Slovene proficiency
- Dual citizenship is allowed
- All foreign documents need apostille and certified translation
- Success rate approximately 87% 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
Slovenia Citizenship by Descent Requirements
You Qualify If:
- You have a Slovenia parent
- Your Slovenia ancestor retained their citizenship
- You can prove the family lineage with official documents
- You can demonstrate connection to Slovenian heritage
- You have no serious criminal convictions
You Don't Qualify If:
- Your Slovenia ancestor formally renounced their citizenship
- You cannot obtain the required official documentation
- Your Slovenia ancestor is more than 1 generation back
- You have serious criminal convictions
Slovenia Citizenship by Descent Process: Step-by-Step
Verify Slovenia Ancestry
Confirm you have Slovenia parent who retained citizenship
💡 Tip: Slovenia allows up to 1 generation for citizenship by descent
Collect Required Documents
Gather all birth, marriage, and death certificates proving Slovenia lineage
💡 Tip: Documents must be apostilled and translated
Demonstrate Cultural Connection
Show connection to Slovenian heritage
💡 Tip: May include family history or cultural involvement
Submit Citizenship Application
Apply at Slovenia consulate or in Ljubljana
💡 Tip: Can apply at consulate abroad or directly in country
Application Review and Processing
Slovenia authorities review application and verify documents
💡 Tip: Processing times vary based on complexity and current demand
Receive Citizenship Certificate
Receive official Slovenia nationality certificate
💡 Tip: Certificate proves citizenship and allows passport application
Apply for Slovenia Passport
Use citizenship certificate to obtain passport
💡 Tip: Provides full EU travel and residence rights
Frequently Asked Questions
How far back can I trace Slovenia ancestry for citizenship?
Slovenia allows citizenship by descent for one generation (parents only).
Do I need to speak Slovene to get Slovenia citizenship by descent?
No, Slovenia does not require language proficiency for citizenship by descent, making the process more accessible.
How much does Slovenia citizenship by descent cost?
Total costs typically range from €200-600, including application fees, document costs, translations, and apostilles.
How long does the Slovenia citizenship process take?
The process typically takes 6-12 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 Slovenian?
Yes, Slovenia allows dual citizenship (limited), so you can keep your original nationality when obtaining Slovenia citizenship in most cases. However, there are some restrictions, so consult with a specialist.