Greek Citizenship Attorneys

We proudly represent clients in New York, the United States, and worldwide who wish to obtain or confirm their Greek citizenship.
Our attorneys work closely with Greek consulates, municipal registries, and the Ministry of Interior in Greece to ensure every step is properly completed.

Greek Citizenship by Descent (Ancestry-Based Applications)

If you were born abroad to Greek parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents, you may be eligible for Greek citizenship through descent.
We assist clients in:

• Tracing Greek ancestry and identifying eligible family members.
• Obtaining birth, marriage, and baptismal certificates from local Greek municipalities or churches.
• Translating and legalizing foreign documents for Greek authorities.
• Filing citizenship recognition applications at the Greek Consulate or directly in Greece.

Greek Citizenship by Marriage

Spouses of Greek citizens may apply for citizenship after a qualifying period of marriage and residence.
Our attorneys guide clients through eligibility reviews, documentation preparation, and interviews with Greek authorities to streamline the process.

Greek Citizenship by Naturalization

Foreign nationals who have resided in Greece for several years may be eligible to apply for naturalization.
We provide legal support for applicants preparing for Greek language and civics exams, gathering required documents, and navigating procedural steps before the Greek Ministry of Interior.

Dual Citizenship & EU Benefits

Holding Greek citizenship allows you to maintain dual nationality with the United States, granting access to European Union residency, healthcare, education, and business opportunities across all EU member states.
Our firm helps clients understand their rights and responsibilities as dual citizens.

Securing Greek citizenship involves complex coordination between U.S. and Greek authorities. At Pardalis & Nohavicka, we simplify the process through:

• Eligibility assessments based on ancestry, marriage, or residence.
• Document collection and legalization, including apostilles and certified translations.
• Liaising with Greek consulates, municipal offices, and ministries in Greece.
• Filing and follow-up on citizenship recognition or naturalization applications.
• Appeals and corrective filings for rejected or delayed applications.

• Greek-American Expertise: As a firm with deep roots in the Greek-American community, we understand both the legal system and cultural nuances.
• Direct Consular Coordination: We maintain relationships with Greek consulates in New York, Boston, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., ensuring smoother communication.
• Full-Service Representation: From document retrieval in Greece to citizenship confirmation abroad, we handle every step.
• Personalized Attention: Each client receives one-on-one guidance from our experienced attorneys until citizenship is officially granted.

Who is eligible for Greek citizenship through descent?

You may qualify if you have a parent, grandparent, or sometimes great-grandparent who was born in Greece or registered as a Greek citizen. Eligibility depends on documented lineage through birth and marriage records.

Do I need to renounce my U.S. citizenship to become a Greek citizen?

No. The United States and Greece both permit dual citizenship. You can hold citizenship in both countries and enjoy the rights of each.

How long does it take to obtain Greek citizenship?

Processing times vary based on your case and consulate location, but most ancestry-based citizenship applications take 12 to 24 months. Cases filed directly in Greece may move faster.

What documents do I need to prove Greek ancestry?

Typically, you’ll need birth, marriage, and death certificates tracing your lineage to a Greek-born ancestor, along with U.S. documents bearing apostilles and Greek translations.

Can I apply if my Greek ancestor’s name was changed after immigrating to the U.S.?

Yes. We can help verify identity links through baptismal records, immigration documents, or census records to establish continuity of lineage.

Do I have to travel to Greece to apply?

Not necessarily. Most applicants can file through their local Greek Consulate. However, certain cases — like missing municipal records — may require coordination with local offices in Greece, which we handle on your behalf.

Can my children also get Greek citizenship once I’m approved?

Yes. Once your citizenship is recognized, your minor children are typically eligible for registration and Greek citizenship through you.