Liechtenstein Citizenship by Descent
Liechtenstein — a tiny alpine principality between Switzerland and Austria — grants citizenship to children of Liechtenstein citizen parents. One parent being a citizen at birth is sufficient to transfer citizenship by descent, and dual citizenship is permitted for those acquiring Liechtenstein citizenship by descent. Liechtenstein is an EFTA and EEA member state, giving its citizens Schengen and European Economic Area rights.
Current passport design
© Wikimedia Commons
Eligibility Overview
At least one Liechtenstein citizen parent is required for citizenship by descent. Children born to a Liechtenstein citizen abroad acquire citizenship automatically. Dual citizenship is allowed for CBD cases — holders need not renounce foreign nationality. Note: naturalization requires 30 years of residency, making CBD the primary route for diaspora.
Key Requirements
- ✓At least one parent who was a Liechtenstein citizen at the time of birth
- ✓Automatic acquisition at birth — formal registration may still be required
- ✓Dual citizenship permitted for CBD cases (not for naturalization)
- ✓Application/registration via the Office of Civil Status and Persons Registry
- ✓Documentary proof of parental citizenship and lineage
Documents You Will Need
- 1Applicant's birth certificate (apostilled and translated into German)
- 2Parent's Liechtenstein identity card or citizenship certificate
- 3Marriage certificates linking family members
- 4Completed registration form with the Office of Civil Status (Amt für Bürgerrecht und Ausweis)
- 5Valid passport or identity document of applicant
Expected Timeline
Registration/confirmation of citizenship by descent is typically processed within 3–6 months. The process is relatively straightforward for direct parent-child cases.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- ⚠️Liechtenstein is tiny — administrative capacity is limited and personal engagement may be required
- ⚠️German is the official language — all documents must be translated
- ⚠️Dual citizenship is permitted for CBD but NOT for naturalization — be clear about which route applies
- ⚠️The 30-year naturalization requirement means CBD is effectively the only realistic route for most people
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can qualify for Liechtenstein Citizenship by Descent?
Anyone with at least one Liechtenstein citizen parent qualifies by descent. Citizenship transfers automatically at birth; formal registration confirms it.
Which documents are required?
Birth certificate, parental citizenship documents, marriage certificates, and translations into German.
How long does the process take?
Approximately 3–6 months for registration and confirmation of CBD status.
Legal Basis
Liechtenstein Citizenship Act (Bürgerrechtsgesetz, BüG), as amended.
Dual Citizenship
Dual citizenship is permitted when citizenship is acquired by descent (CBD). It is not permitted for naturalization applicants.
Estimated Costs
Official fees are modest — CHF 100–300 equivalent. Translation, apostille, and legal costs typically total CHF 400–900 (approx. €430–€970).
Key Archives for Research
Check Your Eligibility
Use our free interactive checker to get a personalised assessment in under 2 minutes.
Start the Checker