As the 2024 presidential election approaches, a wave of Americans—particularly high-profile figures—are contemplating leaving their homeland, driven by the desire for a fresh start. For those exploring their options for dual citizenship or a second passport, several countries welcome individuals to reclaim their heritage through ancestry-based citizenship.

Many nations allow foreign nationals to apply for citizenship if they can trace their lineage through parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents. Here’s an insightful guide to nine countries where Americans can seek citizenship by descent.

1. Ghana

Ghana’s Citizenship Act of 2002 permits anyone with a Ghanaian parent to apply for citizenship. The government’s “Year of Return” initiative is particularly significant for African Americans and Afro-Caribbeans looking to reconnect with their roots. Additionally, Ghana’s “Right of Abode” program enables individuals of African descent to reside in the country indefinitely without a visa, provided they can document their ancestry.

2. Germany

Germany offers citizenship by descent for individuals with German ancestry—be it a parent, grandparent, or even great-grandparent. Notably, special provisions exist for those whose ancestors lost their citizenship due to the Nazi regime's persecution, allowing them and their descendants to reclaim citizenship.

3. Hungary

If you have Hungarian parents or grandparents, Hungary allows you to claim citizenship, irrespective of how many generations have passed. No Hungarian language skills are necessary, making it a straightforward process for many Americans with ties to Hungary.

4. India

While India does not permit dual citizenship, it offers Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) status. This status grants a lifelong, multiple-entry visa and many privileges akin to those of non-resident Indians (NRIs), provided applicants can prove they have Indian ancestry.

5. Ireland

Ireland considers individuals with an Irish parent born before January 1, 2005, as automatic citizens. Those with Irish grandparents can register for citizenship through the Foreign Birth Registration process, and great-grandchildren may also be eligible, though they typically need to provide additional documentation.

6. Italy

Italy grants citizenship by descent as long as the applicant’s Italian ancestor did not renounce their citizenship before the birth of the next direct descendant. If the ancestor is female, the child must have been born post-January 1, 1948, to qualify through her lineage. Naturalization options exist for spouses of Italian citizens and for long-term residents.

7. Poland

Poland's citizenship laws allow individuals to claim citizenship if they can trace their ancestry back to individuals born in Poland. Applicants must demonstrate their ancestors lived in the country after 1920 while retaining their Polish citizenship, requiring original documents as proof.

8. Portugal

For those with at least one Portuguese grandparent, Portugal offers a path to citizenship. Applicants must supply birth certificates substantiating their connection and must process their applications in-person in Portugal.

9. Spain

Spain allows citizenship claims for individuals with a Spanish parent or grandparent. Additionally, adoptees under 18 years of age by Spanish nationals are eligible. Applicants need to pass two exams—a basic Spanish-language proficiency exam and a test on Spanish culture and constitution—to finalize their citizenship.

As political uncertainties loom, these nations stand as gateways for Americans looking to reclaim their heritage while paving the way for new beginnings. With global citizenship on the rise, it’s essential to act swiftly, understand requirements, and prepare for a possible journey abroad!