Each country has its laws on how it grants citizenship. However, most countries enable the child of one citizen to obtain citizenship. To do so, a legal paternity test must be performed if the father is not listed on the child’s birth certificate. In case the father has recognized his child, the birth certificate of both parents is used as part of the documentation required by the country. It should be noted that for a DNA paternity test to be valid for obtaining citizenship, it must be performed according to the indications of the governmental entity. In general, there are agreements with laboratories that are the only ones authorized to carry out this test.

What happens if the father is not alive?

If the citizen has died and has not granted naturalization to his child, the country’s authorities will ask for a test certifying the biological connection with the deceased. The procedure is simple if the father is listed on the child’s birth certificate. On the other hand, if the child was not recognized by their father, a judge may request a DNA sample from other children (if any) or a close relative of the deceased such as siblings, parents, aunts, or uncles. Those who have to opt for the latter option should be filled with a lot of patience as it is a lengthy process that can take months or even years to reach a verdict. An experienced lawyer can be of great help since these legal processes have many steps that must be completed without errors.

What other methods allow access to nationality?

If for some reason you cannot obtain naturalization through DNA, there are countries that offer other methods. Although in many countries you do not get the same benefits as a citizen during the first few years, you end up becoming a citizen if you meet specific requirements. For example, some countries, such as Chile and Portugal, grant a residence permit for some years, ranging between 2 and 5 years. If during this period you prove to be a good person, pay your taxes, do not commit crimes, and comply with the laws, you can be granted citizenship. Other countries also offer citizenship to those who invest a certain amount of money in the country. This is done to encourage foreign investment and make it stay in the country. If you do not know how to become a citizen of a country, ask for the advice of a lawyer.