Czech Citizenship by Descent - FAQ

Thinking about Czech citizenship by descent? This page answers the most common questions with clear, practical guidance. We are lawyers registered with the Czech Bar Association and we prepare, submit, and represent your case directly before the Czech Citizenship Office.

1. Who is eligible for Czech citizenship by descent?

Quick answer: If a parent or grandparent was a Czech/Czechoslovak citizen, you may qualify—details depend on dates and historic laws.

Full answer: You may be eligible if at least one of your parents or grandparents was a Czech or Czechoslovak citizen. Eligibility depends on the year your ancestor was born, their citizenship status at key moments, and the legal rules in force during their lifetime. We assess these factors under the Czech Citizenship Act and historical legislation to confirm your entitlement.

2. Does it matter if my ancestor emigrated long ago—or even lost citizenship?

Quick answer: Not necessarily. You may still qualify even if the ancestor emigrated—and in some cases even if they later lost citizenship; it depends on historic rules.
Full answer: You may still be eligible for Czech citizenship by descent even if your ancestor emigrated many years ago—and in some cases, even if they later lost Czech/Czechoslovak citizenship. Whether any loss breaks the claim depends on the law in force at the time and your family's timeline. We analyse these details and identify the most suitable legal route.

3. Can I apply if only my grandparent was Czech?

Quick answer: Often yes—since 2014, some applicants can claim through a Czech grandparent.
Full answer: Since 2014, Czech nationality law allows certain applicants to claim citizenship through a Czech grandparent. We review your documents and facts and prepare your application in line with the current rules.

4. What documents are required?

Quick answer: Birth certificates (yours, parent's, Czech ancestor's), marriage certificates (if any), the emigrating ancestor's naturalisation certificate (if applicable), plus apostilles/legalisation and original hard copies.

Full answer: Typical requirements include:

  • Your birth certificate

  • Your parent's birth certificate

  • Your Czech ancestor's birth certificate or proof of Czechoslovak citizenship

  • Marriage certificates (if applicable)

  • Naturalisation certificate of the ancestor who emigrated from Czechoslovakia (if applicable)

  • Apostilles or legalisation, where required

    All documents must be original/duplicate hard copies issued by the relevant authority (not photocopies). We arrange all official Czech translations and ensure the set meets the standards of the Czech Citizenship Office. We can obtain records located in the Czech Republic and connect you with cooperating offices in many countries to help locate documents abroad.

5. What if I can't find my ancestor's Czech records?

Quick answer: Our lawyers are ready to help you with archive searches in the Czech Republic and, where helpful, work with skilled genealogists.
Full answer: We search Czech civil registry, parish, and historical archives and obtain certified copies for your application. Our experience as Czech Bar‑registered lawyers helps with official requests. When cases are complex, we partner with professional genealogists to trace missing links.

6. Do I need to speak Czech?

Quick answer: No. We prepare everything in Czech and communicate with authorities for you.
Full answer: There is no language requirement for citizenship by descent. We draft documents in Czech, manage correspondence with the authorities, and represent you throughout.

7. How long does it take?

Quick answer: Usually 6–12 months from filing; timing varies with how clear your ancestor's status is and whether research is needed.
Full answer: We file your application in the Czech Republic (you don't need to go through a consulate). The timeline depends on whether your ancestor's citizenship status is already documented or needs additional legal/archival research. In most cases, the process takes around 6–12 months from submission.

8. Can I hold dual citizenship?

Quick answer: Yes - Czech law allows dual/multiple citizenship since 2014. Many countries (e.g., US, Canada, UK) also permit dual citizenship; check your other country's rules.
Full answer: Since 2014, the Czech Republic recognises dual and multiple citizenships. Many countries - including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom - also allow dual citizenship, but you should confirm any rules for your other nationality. We advise on the Czech legal framework and process.

9. Can my children obtain Czech citizenship if I do?

Quick answer: It depends on the situation - descent line, and the legal route all matter.
Full answer: Eligibility for your children varies according to factors of your family history. In some scenarios, minor children may acquire citizenship in connection with your case; in others, each child - including adults - must qualify in their own right. We assess your family's circumstances and, where a legal route exists, prepare the appropriate application for each child.

10. Do I have to live in the Czech Republic to apply?

Quick answer: No. We prepare and submit your application directly to the Czech Citizenship Office.
Full answer: You can obtain Czech citizenship by descent without relocating. We prepare your file and submit it directly to the Czech Citizenship Office, providing full legal representation throughout.

Why work with us?

  • Direct filing with the Czech Citizenship Office

  • Official Czech translations arranged in‑house

  • Archive searches in the Czech Republic; cooperation with genealogists when needed

  • Clear timelines and proactive case management

  • Representation by Czech Bar‑registered lawyers