Andorra Citizenship by Descent
Andorra — a microstate in the Pyrenees co-governed by France and Spain — grants citizenship by descent to children of Andorran citizens. However, Andorra strictly prohibits dual citizenship, making it a significant commit for anyone who already holds another nationality. Naturalization requires 10 years of residency (20 years for certain categories), making descent the primary pathway for diaspora Andorrans.
Current passport design
© Wikimedia Commons
Eligibility Overview
One Andorran citizen parent is sufficient for citizenship by descent. Children born to an Andorran citizen abroad may register for citizenship. Dual citizenship is prohibited — you must renounce all other nationalities. As Andorra is neither an EU member nor EEA member, Andorran citizenship does not directly confer EU rights.
Key Requirements
- ✓At least one Andorran citizen parent at time of birth
- ✓No dual citizenship — renunciation of all other nationalities is required
- ✓Registration via the Arxiu Nacional d'Andorra or Andorran consular services
- ✓Full documentary proof of parental Andorran citizenship and lineage
- ✓Declaration renouncing other citizenships required upon registration
Documents You Will Need
- 1Applicant's birth certificate (apostilled and translated into Catalan)
- 2Parent's Andorran national identity document (CDUIA) or citizenship certificate
- 3Marriage certificates linking family members
- 4Renunciation documents from country of other citizenship(s)
- 5Completed registration form from the Arxiu Nacional d'Andorra
Expected Timeline
Processing typically takes 6–12 months. The renunciation of other citizenships adds time as this must be completed in your home country before or concurrent with the Andorran application.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- ⚠️Dual citizenship is strictly prohibited — renouncing other nationalities is an irreversible step
- ⚠️Andorra uses Catalan as its official language — all documents must be translated
- ⚠️Andorra is not EU/EEA — no automatic EU free movement right
- ⚠️Limited consular infrastructure outside of Andorra, Spain, and France
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can qualify for Andorra Citizenship by Descent?
Anyone born to an Andorran citizen parent may register for citizenship by descent. Renunciation of all other citizenships is mandatory.
Which documents are required?
Birth certificate, parental Andorran identity documents, marriage certificates, renunciation documents, and Catalan translations.
How long does the process take?
Approximately 6–12 months, plus time to arrange foreign citizenship renunciation.
Legal Basis
Llei de la Nacionalitat Andorrana (Law on Andorran Nationality), as amended.
Dual Citizenship
Dual citizenship is absolutely prohibited. Andorran citizenship is lost upon acquiring a foreign nationality, and foreign nationals acquiring Andorran citizenship must renounce other nationalities.
Estimated Costs
Official fees are minimal. Professional Catalan translation, renunciation costs in home country, and legal fees typically total €500–€1,200.
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