How to Get Croatian Citizenship by Descent
A complete step-by-step guide for U.S. citizens to obtain Croatian citizenship through ancestry
Can a U.S. Citizen Obtain Croatian Citizenship by Descent?
Yes, U.S. citizens can obtain Croatian citizenship by descent. This guide covers how to get Croatian citizenship through your Croatian ancestry, including eligibility requirements, the complete application process, required documents, and timelines for how to become a citizen of Croatia as an American. And yes, you can have Croatian dual citizenship as an American.
Basic Requirements
You only need to meet one of these two criteria to qualify for Croatian citizenship by descent — either prove that a Croatian ancestor emigrated from present-day Croatia before 1991, or show that you belong to the Croatian People.
Complete Step-by-Step Process
Follow these 8 steps to get Croatian citizenship by descent. This guide explains how to apply for Croatian citizenship, whether you’re a U.S. citizen or have Croatian roots abroad—showing exactly how to become a citizen of Croatia and obtain your Croatian passport.
Prove Lineage
Establish your Croatian ancestry and connection
- Gather Croatian ancestor's birth, marriage, and death certificates
- Collect your birth certificate and family documents
- Document unbroken chain from ancestor to you
- Verify ancestor was Croatian citizen at time of birth
Get FBI Background Check
Obtain federal criminal background check
- Required for all applicants over 14 years old
- Must be less than 6 months old when submitted
- Apply through FBI's official website or approved channelers
- Processing time: 3-5 business days for electronic submission
Apostille and Translate
Get apostille stamps and translate all documents
- Apostille required for international document recognition
- Obtain from your state's Secretary of State office
- Translate all non-Croatian documents by certified translators
- FBI background check needs apostille from U.S. State Department
Complete Application Forms
Fill out Croatian citizenship application paperwork and assemble documents
- Application for Croatian citizenship by descent
- Personal information forms and CV
- Family tree documentation
- Letter of motivation about Croatian identity and connection
Submit at Croatian Consulate
Schedule appointment and submit your complete application
- Schedule appointment at nearest Croatian consulate
- Bring all original documents and copies
- Pay application fee (currently $100 USD)
- Provide biometric data if required
Application Review & Approval
Wait for Croatian authorities to review and approve your application
- Application reviewed by Croatian Ministry of Interior
- Processing time typically 6-18 months
- May request additional documentation
- Decision communicated through consulate
Receive Croatian Citizenship Certificate
Obtain your official Croatian citizenship certificate (Domovnica)
- Certificate proves your Croatian citizenship
- Required for passport application
- Official document in Croatian language
- Can be collected at consulate or by our Croatian Lawyer on your behalf
Apply for Croatian Passport
Get your Croatian passport for EU travel and residence rights
- Apply at Croatian consulate with citizenship certificate (or in Croatia)
- Provides full EU mobility rights
- No separate residence permits needed in most EU countries
- Dual citizenship with U.S. passport maintained
Expected Timeline
The complete process to get Croatian Citizenship by Descent as an American is around 2.5-3 years from start to finish
Document Collection
2-6 months
Gathering all required documents from various sources
Translation & Apostille
1-2 months
Professional translation and government certification
Consulate Processing and Minister of Interior Review
6-18 months
Review and decision by Croatian authorities
Croatian Citizenship Certificate
1-2 months
Receiving your Croatian citizenship certificate
Important Things to Know
✅ What’s Allowed
- • Dual citizenship (keep U.S. citizenship)
- • Apply for family members simultaneously
- • Work and live anywhere in EU
- • Pass citizenship to your children
⚠️ Common Challenges
- • Finding Croatian ancestor documents
- • Navigating Croatian bureaucracy
- • Long processing times
- • Language barriers with officials
Ready to Start Your Croatian Citizenship Journey?
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