How To Get Greek Citizenship from the US
- Greece Media
- Aug 9, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 12, 2025
For Greek Americans, obtaining citizenship is more than completing paperwork. It allows you to reconnect with heritage, secure identity for future generations, and enjoy the rights of European Union citizenship. For residents of the United States, the process can feel complex, as requirements vary between consulates and documentation standards are strict.
For a full guide to eligibility and step-by-step procedures, see How to Get Greek Citizenship by Descent.
Where to Start if You Live in the US
Greek citizenship applications are submitted through your local consulate, and procedures can vary slightly between cities such as New York, Boston, Chicago, Tarpon Springs, and Los Angeles. Understanding consular requirements, appointment scheduling, and document submission helps applicants plan effectively no matter where they reside.
Who Qualifies for Greek Citizenship
The most common pathway is citizenship by descent. Eligibility may apply if:
A parent is a Greek citizen, even if you were born abroad
A grandparent was born in Greece and registered in local municipal records
In certain cases, a great-grandparent can establish eligibility if proper documentation exists
Greek citizenship obtained this way allows dual citizenship, meaning the United States permits you to retain your US nationality while also holding Greek citizenship. You can legally carry both passports and enjoy the rights of both countries.
While the criteria are clear, proving the connection can be challenging. Missing records, untranslated documents, or inconsistencies in US paperwork often create delays. For guidance on ancestral documentation, see Greek citizenship for children and grandchildren.
Required Documents
Applicants typically need both US and Greek records, including:
Birth certificates for the applicant and the Greek ancestor they plan to obtain citizenship from
Marriage certificates for relevant generations
US birth certificates for parents and children
Naturalization records if an ancestor became a US citizen
All documents must be certified, translated, and submitted properly. For detailed document preparation, see Greek citizenship documents checklist.
Seek Professional Help
For many applicants, managing document retrieval, translations, and consular procedures from abroad can be overwhelming. GetGreece’s Greek Citizenship Service offers full end-to-end support, including verifying eligibility, retrieving Greek records, handling certified translations, and preparing the application for submission. This ensures your case moves forward efficiently and minimizes delays caused by incomplete or incorrect paperwork.
Special Considerations
Name discrepancies or changes after immigration can complicate applications
Some ancestors may not be registered in Greek municipal records
Church or archival records may be required for older generations
Proper planning ensures these issues are addressed before submission.
Understanding the Timeline
Processing times vary based on consulate workload, documentation readiness, and ancestry complexity. Applications can take months to years depending on your situation. For a detailed overview, see How Long Does Greek Citizenship Take.
Final Thoughts
Greek citizenship offers legal, cultural, and generational benefits. While the process can be complex, careful preparation, correct documentation, and understanding consular requirements make the process manageable.
For full-service support handling document retrieval, submission, and verification worldwide, applicants can consult GetGreece’s Greek Citizenship Service.
We assist applicants from the United States, Canada, Australia, Europe, and beyond. You can reach the service at 1-833-694-7332 or info@getgreece.com.
About the Author
This article was prepared by an immigration specialist at GetGreece with experience in lineage verification, municipal registry procedures, and document compliance for Greek citizenship, inheritance, and tax-related matters. Their work focuses on helping applicants understand Greek government processes clearly and accurately.
Last updated: Nov 2025
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