How to Apply for European Citizenship

Applying for citizenship in a European country is a multiyear process.

European citizenship is granted to anyone who holds citizenship in a member state of the European Union. If you want to become a citizen of the E.U., you must first abide by the rules and regulations for gaining citizenship in a specific European country. European citizenship is granted in addition to national citizenship. Though it can take years to obtain, European citizenship allows citizens to freely move between and inhabit the various countries in the E.U., as well as vote in elections for E.U. positions.

Things You'll Need

• Official birth certificate
• Background check from local police entity
• Letters verifying employment

Instructions

1. Maintain legal residence in the European country in which you want to obtain citizenship. The number of years needed to fulfill this requirement varies from country to country.

2. Learn the language of your chosen European country. Gain enough skill to be able to pass any language tests the country may require you to take for citizenship. Also educate yourself on culture, customs and history in addition to language.

3. Obtain and keep gainful, long-term employment with a company based in the country where you want to live. This proves that you will be a contributing member of society and not dependent on public welfare for financial support.

4. Prepare to renounce citizenship in your home country if this is a requirement of the European country where you would like to become a citizen.

5. When all necessary conditions are met, take official copies of your birth certificate, a certified background check or police report and letters from your European employer to the consulate of the country where you would like to be a citizen. Fill out all paperwork honestly and completely. This step may require several rounds of interviews and language and culture tests, which can take anywhere from months to years to complete.

Tips & Warnings

• This general advice should be heeded in addition to any regulations specific to the European country from which you seek citizenship. Check with the country's consulate or immigration office.

• Marrying a citizen of the European country you want to move to, as well as having children with one, can often expedite your application or even drastically reduce citizenship prerequisites.

• Gaining citizenship in a country different from the one in which you were born is a major life decision that could affect your ability to visit family and friends in your home country. Be sure you are ready to take this step and have considered all the potential pitfalls.

References

• EUROPA: Citizenship of the European Union
• UK Border Agency: Standard Requirements for Naturalization
• Legifrance: Civil Code

Resources

• Southern Cross Group: Acquiring Another Citizenship - France
• Migration Information Source: Citizenship in a Globalized World; Greta Gilbertson; January 2006