Comprehensive citizenship consulting services tailored to your unique heritage journey. From initial research to final approval, we’re with you every step of the way.
What we do
Citizenship by Descent Services: Everything You Need, Nothing You Don't
Citizenship by descent is a deeply personal process… and a complex one. We handle the research, the documents, the paperwork, and the coordination, so you can focus on what matters: your connection to your heritage.
01
Citizenship by Descent Eligibility Assessment
We start with your family story. We review your lineage, identify which ancestors may have passed citizenship down, and tell you which countries you could claim, from Italy and Ireland to Canada and Poland. You get a clear answer on your strongest path and exactly what is missing.
02
Genealogical Research for Citizenship Applications
We locate and retrieve the vital records, such as birth, marriage, death, naturalization, and emigration documents, that form the backbone of your application. Our network of genealogists works in the archives where the records live and fills the gaps when a document is missing or a name changed.
03
Vital Records and Apostille Services
We order certified copies from vital records offices, arrange apostilles at every level of government, and manage the chain of custody so nothing falls through the cracks. Every document is checked against your country's requirements before it goes into your file.
04
Certified Translation for Citizenship
Every document that crosses a border needs to speak the right language. We provide certified translations with translator attestations that meet consular and court requirements, so your file is accepted the first time.
05
Application Assembly and Filing
We build complete, country-specific application packets and manage submission, whether through a consulate, municipal registry, or court-based procedure. Each packet is organized the way your country's officials expect to see it.
06
Legal Coordination with Local Attorneys
For countries that require in-country legal representation, we work directly with vetted local attorneys to prepare powers of attorney and coordinate on your behalf throughout the process.
07
Ongoing Case Management
Once you're our client, you're never left wondering. We provide regular status updates, respond to consular inquiries, and stay with you all the way through to approval.
08
Visa and Residency Pathways
Not eligible by descent, or want to establish a foothold in Europe first? We also help clients explore elective residency, digital nomad, and investor visa options across the EU.
Three simple steps
How Our Citizenship by Descent Process Works
1
Start with a Free Review
We research your family history and determine which citizenship programs you qualify for.
2
Build Your File
Our team obtains all necessary vital records, legal documents, and certifications.
3
Submit & Celebrate
We submit your application, then celebrate when you receive your citizenship.
Choose your level of support
Citizenship by Descent Packages, Quoted to Your Case
Every country and every family tree is different, so we quote each case individually after your free eligibility review. You'll know exactly what's included and what it costs before you commit, with no hidden fees.
Starter
Guided DIY
You handle the easy stuff. We handle the rest. We complete all your vital records request forms, provide apostille instructions, and translate what needs translating, so your only job is sending away for records and dropping things in the mail. Once your packet is ready, we'll walk you through self-submission or connect you with in-country counsel to file for you. Attorney fees, where required, are quoted separately by country.
We handle everything from first document to final approval. Vital records forms, apostilles, certified translations, application assembly, and direct coordination with in-country counsel, all included. Your only job is staying informed. Clients receive a complete packet of documents, translations, and certifications to present to an attorney of their choice, or to hand in at their local consulate or in-country municipality.
Already underway and just need a little bit of assistance? We offer standalone translation, vital record search and procurement, and document packet preparation for clients who need targeted help.
When my company offered me a position in Berlin, I assumed I'd need a work visa. Roots Recovered found that my great-grandfather from Germany actually made me eligible for citizenship, which felt like kismet to me.
Now I can work anywhere in the EU.
Jason L.
Berlin, Germany
Client Story“
I became a recognized Italian dual citizen in June 2026, after applying in April. It was seriously that quick.
Roots Recovered won my court case even after the so-called Tajani Reform should have killed my chances. They are the real deal and I am forever grateful.
Joey D.
Flushing, NY
Client Story“
We wanted a better pace of life for our family. Roots Recovered traced our line back to my wife's great-great grandfather in Italy and guided us through every step. My wife and children became dual citizens in 2023, and I'm working on my own Italian citizenship by marriage. Grazie mille!
Dan S.
Rimini, Italy
Client Story“
Two other firms told me my case was too complicated because of an unofficial name change, despite obviously qualifying. Roots Recovered didn't give up. They found my grandfather's old school records to bridge the discrepancy. They put in work when nobody else would, and my Irish citizenship was confirmed in March 2025.
Lyle O.
Bridgeport, CT
Client Story“
I came in asking about Hungary. After reviewing my family tree, they found a second claim through Poland on my mother's side, and it turned out to be the better fit because I wouldn't need a language exam. I never would have known to look.
Clinton W.
Detroit, MI
Questions answered
Citizenship by Descent: Frequently Asked Questions
What is citizenship by descent?
Citizenship by descent (also called citizenship by ancestry, or jure sanguinis) is the right to claim a country's citizenship because a parent, grandparent, or earlier ancestor was a citizen. You do not need to live in the country, and you may qualify even if your family left generations ago.
Do I have to give up my U.S. citizenship?
The United States allows dual citizenship, and many of the countries we work with do too. Rules differ by country, so we confirm yours during your free review, before you apply.
How far back can my ancestors be?
It depends on the country. Some programs, such as Luxembourg and Poland, have no generation limit as long as the chain of citizenship was never broken. Others stop at parents or grandparents, and Italy's rules changed with the 2025 reform. Your eligibility review shows exactly where you stand.
What documents will I need?
Typically birth, marriage, and death records for each person in your line, plus proof of your ancestor's citizenship and any naturalization records. Most documents need apostilles, and many need certified translations. We handle the ordering, apostilles, and translations.
How long does the process take?
Timelines vary widely by country, by consulate, and by whether a court filing is required. Some cases move in a few months and others take longer. After your free review, we give you a realistic estimate for your country.
How much does it cost?
Every program is different, so we quote each case after your free eligibility review. We explain any government fees, record fees, or attorney fees up front, so there are no surprises.
Do I have to move or speak the language?
No. Citizenship by descent does not require you to move. A few countries ask for basic language skills in certain situations, such as Hungary, or Portugal when you do not apply through a Portuguese parent. We will tell you if your country does.
Can my children become citizens too?
Often, yes. Depending on the country, once your citizenship is recognized you can pass it on to your children, and in some cases children may qualify through you or through the same ancestor. We review this for your family.
Do you handle Canadian citizenship by descent?
Yes. We help clients claim Canadian citizenship by descent as well as citizenship in 14 European countries. If you have a Canadian parent or grandparent, book a free review to see if you qualify.
