Romanian Citizenship By Descent - Ancestry Update

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I'm back from a short break as I was finishing my new book, Moving Abroad For Dummies! amzn.to/49HfQIs 🌍For help planning your move abroad, contact me: www.travelingwithkristin.com/relocation

[@goranjovic3174]

I'm Serbian , but somehow i always knowed/had a feeling that you are someone of us from Balkan and Eastern Europe in generally :) Greetings to you my dear Kristin and to All our Romanian brothers and sisters from neighbouring Serbia! :)

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Yes - thank you! I also love Serbia!

[@goranjovic3174]

@TravelingwithKristin Thank you ☺️🤗💖

[@Valachorum]

Sometimes first impressions can be deceiving but I agree that Kristin is such a beautiful person that she seems like a familiar presence in our space. But the most important thing is that all Europeans should have the respect that Romania and Serbia show each other. So hard to get these days... And there are so many trolls, even on this page, who show their misery and hatred from their souls. You know what I mean... And for what? To keep an American woman away from Romania? As if Romania would claim her for itself, like a trophy or something. Greetings from Romania, brother Goran ✌

[@andreig4252]

God bless you, from Romania, brother!

[@BuffaloPhil529]

I was recognized as an Italian citizen by descent in 2019. It's an extremely rewarding process. Finding each document sparks an emotional connection to your ancestors. I'm looking forward to following your journey!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Congrats Phil! 🇮🇹 I look forward to posting another update soon :)

[@JoJo-vz5uy]

I’m Romanian - born and raised in Transylvania. Is pretty there… lots of nature and small medieval villages. Great food and history!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I can't wait to visit!

[@a_n2434]

​@@TravelingwithKristinyou will enjoy!

[@Postcard_Perfect]

Oh my, I didn’t expect to hear that but from a fellow Romanian, Welcome!!! Hope you will visit and learn as much possible about the country’s history and traditions. Bonus point, the Romanian passport is stronger now then the US 😉

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much for the warm welcome and kind words @Postcard_Perfect!😊

[@bluegreen333-g5r]

Bine ai venit şi succes în continuare!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Mulţumesc!

[@cland4140]

My parent are Romanian, and I’ve been meaning to get my dual citizenship. Thanks for the reminder!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Yes! Go for it :)

[@jameshess2912]

@@TravelingwithKristin For you it's okay Kristin but for the young man it is not. They can be called for military enrollment at any time!

[@viorelivanovici3906]

Pe bune? Am senzația că Dumneata faci confuzie între România și Rusia! 😂😂😂😂😂

[@a_n2434]

Haha. Good joke, James.​@@jameshess2912

[@alexandru29839]

That's not a thing in Romania 🤣🤣

[@emceul]

Succes si bine ai venit :)

[@TravelingwithKristin]

multumesc 😊

[@DebSittko]

Spent a month in Romania in ‘23 and loved it! Sure to go back within the year. Will be fun to hear how this goes for you! 🤞🙏🏻 that all goes well!

[@vulpeadejad7523]

Hi there. What places / cities did you visit while in Romania ?😊

[@DebSittko]

Most of the time I was in my friend’s home in Deta. I also visited Timisoara for a weekend and returned several times. An enchanting city! Also enjoyed the rural life in Deta!

[@paulinanelega]

Thank you for your video, Kristin. My father was from Romania and this makes me re-ponder the idea of citizenship-by-descent (and/or on my mother's side; she was born in UK).

[@TravelingwithKristin]

You're welcome, Paulina. Having an EU and UK passport would be amazing! You should be able to qualify through your parents easily.

[@Fane-Babanu]

Do not ponder, apply for Romanian citizenship! Hurry up! Romania is tightening its re-naturalization requirements by requiring a Romanian language and culture formal test. But you may be considered a Romanian-born citizen, if your father was not compelled to give up his Romanian citizenship before or after he left Romania.

[@danielacinderella9501]

Well : My Romanian great-grandfather had 15 kids with my Hungarian greatgrandmother , both from Oradea( Bihor county in western Romania) - their youngest child being my grandma ! 🤗

[@TravelingwithKristin]

How wonderful!

[@carlosnorris352]

Good times. I do not know today a single person below 50 with more than 2 kids.

[@annastayziaa]

congrats Kristin!!!🥹🥹🥹🥹 I remember I was SO happy to be granted my Armenian citizenship by descent 🥹🥹🥹🥹 I can relate to how much this means to you🥹🥹🥹🥳🥳🥳 congrats!!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much, Annastayziaa! 😊❤ Congrats on yours as well!

[@stevemellor7989]

It's always fascinating to trace your roots, and learn of the family history. I too would love to spend the remainder of my life in Europe, as my roots go back to the UK. I wish you the best success in getting your Romanian citizenship.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much, Steve!

[@andreig4252]

I'm Romanian, born and raised. I moved to the Netherlands a few years ago for uni. Every time I go back to where my extended family is from, Sibiu in Transylvania, I have this strange, natural connection to the place, the land, the people. It feels like home. I wasn't brought up in Transylvania, I grew up in Bucharest the capital, I used to spend every summer growing up in a small village near Sibiu with my grandma. There is just something in my heart and soul every time I go there, it's peaceful, it feels right. I certainly hope you'll enjoy the same feelings and emotions when you go there. Best of luck in your process! I'm quite young now so I'm lacking the resources, but I'm definitely going to research my ancestry as well. I recently found out that my great great grandpa emigrated to the US around 1910s-1920s, that was a shock and also a spark of curiosity. Do I have long lost cousins? Time will tell :)

[@Valachorum]

I am a Wallachian boy left here to take care of his Romanian family, from an oil town lost in time that fueled Germany's war machine in ww2. Bombed by the Americans because of the refineries, then destroyed by earthquakes and communists... I witnessed the desperate call for the Americans to come again, liberators, after the West betrayed us and little Paris became a ghetto of crimes like the whole country. Then life, history, truth... their truth. My parents' youth, dancing to English and American songs in workers' clubs, dancing being a lesser crime than talking or shouting. We opposed the communists with poetry, folk music and hope. For some balance... and the chance to become a dignified nation again. Sometimes humor, suicidal humor. Defying death, deportations and torture. I was never able to leave the country after the fall of communism, when I was 19. My roots were deeper than my wings were high. But after years, I encouraged my daughter to do it. She hasn't done it yet, I think she never will. Beyond the Carpathians, to my paternal grandmother, beyond the forests, the Saxon fortresses, the ridiculous legends and those roads from another planet, she found that peace and soul that I only suspected in myself. And I said to myself.... What a wonderful world!

[@pumuckl0]

Nice! Good luck with your journey. For those that qualify for citizenship by descent, you should apply ASAP because some countries are starting to tighten the requirements.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

thank you! I'm on it :)

[@TheWanderingHartz]

We're looking forward to following you along on your journey for Romanian citizenship. We spent a month living in Brasov and loved it. Romania really surprised us and we will definitely go back and maybe even look into residency options. Good Luck!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much for your kind words @TheWanderingHartz! It’s wonderful to hear that Romania surprised you in such a positive way. I'm excited to share my journey toward Romanian citizenship!

[@AtypicalVagabond]

Oh how exciting Kristin. I can't wait to hear about your next adventures.

[@cindyk3076]

Very interesting story about your journey for citizenship and your family, thanks for sharing!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

My pleasure, Cindy!

[@andreiasw1]

Even if you never go back, I think its still great to maintain a connection to your roots. I left Romania for studies 13 years ago, always felt the connection no matter how bad some conditions were back home at that point in time and will be returning soon. Love to see the world, but would also love to have the base of operations home.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I completely agree @andreiasw1-maintaining a connection to your roots is so meaningful, even if you’re far from home.

[@trishsavelle7566]

Hello Kristin and community! I have Spanish ancestry and am currently in the process of obtaining Spanish citizenship for myself and my adult son. I am approaching retirement age and am considering moving full time to Spain at some point in the future. I do speak Spanish well and believe I have relatives in the Madrid area. I have never been to Europe and am very excited about the possibilities but also overwhelmed by the logistical considerations. I will be getting your book to use as a guide, and as I get closer to possibly moving, will be in touch with you for more guidance! Thank you so much for your great content! 🙏❤️

[@TravelingwithKristin]

It’s wonderful to hear about your Spanish ancestry and your exciting plans for the future. I’m thrilled that my book will be a helpful resource for you, and I’d be more than happy to offer any guidance as you get closer to your move. Wishing you all the best as you embark on this next chapter, and thank you for your kind words! 🙏❤️

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Your ancestor had probably already submitted his declaration of intent to become a US citizen, then registered for the WWII draft. Actual citizenship was granted months/ years later after the initial declaration was submitted. Love this video! I've been a die-hard genealogist for over 20 years and will eventually do some video content related to genealogy travel. :) Next time you're in southern England, Mauretania Bar in Bristol has some of the original ship's interiors installed. It's beautiful.

[@cristinan.6009]

Good luck Kristin, l am impressed by your desire to search your roots. I have stayed myself 4 years in US and l know this is important for many americans.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement! I appreciate your support and hope your time in the U.S. was a meaningful experience as well! 🙏

[@ConorClyneNewEurope]

Interesting that you have so many options for EU citizenship. 👍🏻 I’ve been helping clients with Romanian, Italian, Irish and Moldovan citizenship by descent recently.

[@annapaz4]

Congrats Kristin!! ✨ Good luck on your path to citizenship! 💗 It was so interesting to hear about your family’s journey and roots. I hope the process goes smoothly and quickly 💫☘️🤞 Mine took two years, but it was worth every minute! (🇭🇷❣️) It will be exciting to follow along with yours! 😄🙌

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you, Anna! Congrats on your new passport!

[@davebowman7470]

I think what you're doing is really great and important. Like you, I grew up in a family that was heritage conscious yet ever-focused on the present. I'm fascinated by the interest you are taking in tracing and sharing your roots back to the lands of your forebears. It's exciting and heartwarming to see how you can reach across the years to learn of your family from the documents of their lives! The 19th and 20th centuries made real progress with civilization and personal connection.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much for your thoughtful words! It’s truly heartwarming to hear that you connect with this journey of tracing our roots, and I’m glad to share this experience with you! 😊

[@ursdaniel]

The flag looks like Colombia. Anyway, welcome to Romania 🇹🇩 people party! 😂 I cant wait to hear you talking romanian language. :) which is part of the process of the exams and interview you will have to give in order to receive romanian citeznship. best of luck from Romania 🇹🇩!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you, Daniel! I look forward to learning another language!

[@bear6562]

She has the right to become a romanian citizen if one of her parents is a romanian citizen. She doesn't have to speak the language.

[@ursdaniel]

@bear6562 lol, u didnt watch the video.

[@HasanUnknown]

[Quran:- 5:72]:- “Jesus has said, "O Children of Israel, worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord." [Quran:- 19:30]:- “Jesus has said, "Indeed, I am the servant of Allah. He has given me the Scripture and made me a Prophet.” [Quran:- 4:171]:- “Christ Jesus the son of Mary was no more than a messenger of Allah…..So believe in Allah and His messengers. Say not "Trinity" desist: it will be better for you: for Allah is one Allah:

[@Kannot2023]

​@@bear6562language is a mandatory requirement to take citizenship. You could be 100% Romanian, if you don't know Romanian you don't get citizenship

[@jaynair2942]

Hi Kristin, it's so interesting hearing about your ancestral history.! And now you're aiming to get multiple citizenships.! All the best wishes.! And as always, you're looking resplendent.!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks Jay!

[@stanleygronek]

Thanks for creating the space for your personal discussion of ancestry. My wife reflects your 3rd generation ancestry, though she has Polish, German and English background. My first generation experience of my parent’s history, leaving Poland, keeps my mind active about these roots. Thank you again.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing your family’s story @stanleygronek. It’s wonderful to hear how your own roots and experiences keep your heritage alive. 😊

[@infour44]

Wow, thats a winner if you can get a Romanian/EU passport. Gold ⭐️

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Fingers crossed...

[@mounthoodsts]

Wonderful! How exciting!! My grandparents immigrated to the US from Slovenia. I was hoping to get citizenship by descent , but found that the requirements to qualify include currently having a connection to a family member still living in Slovenia and having a financial connection e.g. supporting an institution of the country through donations. So......nope. It will be fun to follow along on your journey though. Good luck and much success!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for the support! Slovenia seems like an amazing country. Hopefully you can visit and enjoy either way!

[@vondagrubb4623]

Very interesting. I love the photo of you with your grandpa!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks @vondagrubb4623!

[@vasyapupkin8540]

Wow, didn’t know you have Romanian roots. I’m also received the Romanian citizenship by descent and always considered myself Romanian even though I’ve never technically lived there. I’m currently living in Porto btw, it was nice seeing some photos from there.

[@BogdanMatasaru]

Good luck with your quest! 🎉

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you @BogdanMatasaru!

[@ares1634]

Hello! Nădlac was a border cross point until Jan 1st, when Romania entered Schengen. No border with Hungary anymore. I understand that you love to travel but the first criteria should be observed when given citizenship is that should be speaking that country's language. Worth learning though, as Romanian is a beautifully balanced and complex Latin derived language. Best wishes, from Transylvania Romania.

[@piotrb4240]

OK, possibly, but then you should take that up with your government! Citizenship law is fully under control of national laws.

[@ppn194]

The border is still there, no border control anylonger

[@krissy3172]

Very exciting, Kristin! I wish I had immediate family to be able to live in Europe. I feel more drawn to the culture & lifestyle, too. My ancestry is 100% European; I have genealogy in France dated back to the 1600’s, and my maternal ancestry from Scotland & Ireland. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and journey.🙏🏻

[@TravelingwithKristin]

How wonderful, Krissy! It's fascinating to find out where we come from.

[@louisb5563]

@2:10 Europe is definitely nice to live in! This was a pretty cool dive in your history! You've provoked me to re-consider "my ancestry"!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I’m so glad you enjoyed the dive into history, and it’s awesome that it’s sparked you to reconsider your own ancestry! Who knows what you might uncover! 😊

[@dugfriendly]

Loving those world map throw pillows ❤

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Right!? I found them on Amazon amzn.to/4ghylEQ

[@123boat]

Good luck. Hope you get that precious passport 🤗

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you! 💛

[@carlosnorris352]

Just to clarify about your great grandparents meeting since you were wondering how it happened . I’m from a western Romania town not far from Nadlac. Before treaty of Trianon in 1919 Transylvania was in Austria-Hungary, meaning they were both in neighboring towns of the same country. After the mentioned treaty, the winners (Romania) gained the famous vampire region and the new border crossed between the 2 locations. Very likely after they met.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for this, Carlos!

[@iliegiurgiu8140]

Welcome to Romanian / EU Citizenship , I’m Romanian - American too , will be a new journey in your life , !

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you!

[@richvangogh]

Fantastic Plan! I just bought my first house in Lynnwood, Wa. So NOW, I can get serious about buying a Cherry Farm in Portugal! (Or a Manor House! I keep flip Flopping!) So great to see you smile and be so happy! Much Love, Rich!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

That’s a great dream, Rich! A cherry farm and a manor house sounds amazing!

[@AdamGordon1977]

My family left Poland/Lithuania too long ago for me to gain citizenship. Best wishes. I hope it works out for you.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for the support, Adam!

[@lucchese20]

Great job Kristin! Thanks for this and future videos on this topic. IMHO I believe many US citizens do not take advantage of citizen by descent primarily not knowing the process or it’s perceived as “too lengthy.” You are also very wise to pursue all four options at your disposal. While the process should be similar (birth docs, death docs, marriage docs, US naturalization, and language tests) you never know which of your four “turtles” will win the race for you. 🐢🐢🐢 BTW-I’ve heard US attorneys will charge more than USD 1K for their efforts. 💰 All the best.

[@scottman895]

This is very exciting! I know I have ancestry from England, Wales, and Finland based on what I have been told from my late grandparents and from documents which my mother has. I'm excited to see the next step in the process!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

That’s so exciting @scottman895! Tracing your ancestry and uncovering your roots is such a meaningful journey. Wishing you the best as you explore more, and I appreciate your enthusiasm for my journey as well! 🙌

[@Alex-jx5bx]

Awesome story! Thank you😊

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I'm glad you enjoyed it! 🙏

[@SherbertHoover]

Awesome! Congrats! I don’t think I have recent European ancestry but I definitely want to live in Europe again permanently and possibly obtain citizenship

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you! If you want to relocate to Europe with a different type of residency, my team and I can help you at www.travelingwithkristin.com/relocation

[@emiliaweber7]

I am from Transylvania, the western part of Romania which used to be part of Austria - Hungary. People there are mixed: Romanians, Germans, Hungarians, Czechs, Serbians etc. It seems your great grandfather, although born in Nadlac, was not an ethnic Romanian. That name is not a Romanian name. Hungarian most likely. I'm sure you'll find out as you dig deeper into your ancestry. Either way, welcome back!

[@ppn194]

Populatrion in Nădlac: 49% Romanians, 39% Slovaks, 2% Hungarians. Janos Koncz could be Romanian, Slovak, whatever. Till 1918, the Magyar adminstration fiercefully magyarised the names.

[@ares1634]

That name was most probably Ioan Conci, also found in Italian as concio with the same meaning as in Arch Romanian, of hair braided and fastened on top of the head, the ornament or crown of flowers of a married woman or to get married. Names in Transylvania were also Germanized and Magyarized, in different stages.

[@IlieOlar]

Bună ziua, cu siguranță era nume românesc Conț în perioada dinaintea primului război mondial majoritatea numelor din Austro-Ungaria erau traduse în limba maghiara. Străbunica era probabil tot româna dintr-o zonă devenită ulterior Ungaria. Iar prenumele lor sunt românești Emil și Elena.

[@ares1634]

@ Numai ignorantii nu realizeaza ca majoritatea populatiei Transilvane si estul Panoniei au fost Romanizate vreme de 4-5 secole si apoi Slavizate partial dupa sec 6. In regatul maghiar al sec 13 elita maghiara erau sub 5%, iar procesul de maghiarizare si germanizare a inceput abia dupa rascoala de la Bobalna, soldata cu Unio Trium Nationum dupa feb 1439, cand majoritatea nobililor romani si detinatori de pamant au fost fortati sa se declare unguri, germani sau secui si sa treaca la catolicism, sa-si poata pastra averile. Si totusi la primul recensamant auastriac din 1776 inca erau doar 250k de maghiari, 220k de secui, la 1,69 milioane de romani. Apoi in 100 de ani, prin maghiarizarea numelor si fortarea multora la catolicism pentru privilegii, ungurii au sasrit subit la 1,6 milioane de "vorbitori" de maghiara, la 2,78 milionane de romani. Cand rata natalitatii la romani era mult mai mare decat la maghiari si secui, fiecare familie avand 5-10 copii, comparat cu 1-2 la maghiari. Singurele populatii non indigene maghiarizate in timp au fost cateva mii de kabari deveniti secui, cel mai probabil pseudo avarii din trecut si grupri razlete de cumani si pecenegi turci. restul au fost populatii romanizate si fosti panoni slavizati partial in 2-300 de ani. Dar si in estul Panoniei majoritari erau romanii.

[@CorinaBiancaGonteanu12]

​@@ppn194 my great-great-grandfather, whose name was Wilhelm, appeared in many official records as Vilmos, it was funny to realize that the Hungarian administration magyarized all names, regardless of ethnicity, but it made it quite difficult to find his records. Kristin, note that the Romanian national archives are online and searchable, and Transylvania is pretty well documented, so you may find the birth and wedding registries of your great grandparents.

[@MuffinzGamingChannel]

I love that you have researched and are moving forward with reuniting with your family heritage. Love it! I was able to track my family back to 1425. I'm very interested in going back to the small town in England where they were in order to research more. Good luck with your dual citizenship! I am a huge fan and a lot of your videos really touch my experiences. I wasn't a digital nomad but I did two stints in Europe (Paris, Zurich) and a lot of what you discuss about lifestyle diffrences as well as realizations of the US when you came back really hit home. Love your videos, very insightful and I have to say I am living a bit vicariously through you as I have two kids and cannot move back to Europe anytime soon. Your videos on Eastern and Southern Europe have been very eye-opening. Romania and Bulgaria are definitely moving up my "must see" list because of you. Thank you for all of your shared experiences. I wish you all the best and keep the videos coming if you can.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much for the kind words! Wow.- 1425 is a long time ago! Nice work. Going in person to find records is helpful. I'm so glad you've been liking the videos! Feel free to let me know any questions :)

[@MuffinzGamingChannel]

@@TravelingwithKristin Thank you, Kristin. One comment/question I have is that each time I moved back to the US I vowed to try and replicate the European lifestyle here. I currently live just outside the Washington, DC area and, unfortunately, I just don't think it can be done. Like you said in one of your previous videos, you kind of get sucked back in to the (unhealthy) lifestyle of your surroundings... the need for a car, material things, overpaying for bad food, etc... you just can't replicate that lifestyle in the US. No imitation cafe or chocolate shop even comes close. Mostly, my outlook on life has changed and even though I did get sucked back in to the US lifestyle (and even worse the rat race of the East Coast), I still try to focus on quality versus quantity. Still, it is difficult. When I lived in Paris I didn't have a car, I didn't have a TV, nothing really of material value...AND I LOVED IT. Here I feel like you have to have the better vehicle, wear the latest fashion, have the newest phone/tablet, etc. Sorry, long-winded...Long question even longer - What steps have you taken to try and maintain a better quality of life in the US that is more in tune with a European lifestyle? I feel like it can only be a frame of mind here and nothing else. Any and all insight to how to better manage this is greatly appreciated. I really miss living in Europe as well as experiences I have had in other places I have traveled. Thanks again!

[@r.g.2095]

Koncz is a traditional Hungarian family name so your grandfather were Hungarian from Nagylak which is the border city between Hu-R0 since 1920. Before that it was part of Hungary. With both of your Grandmother and Grandfather being Hungarian you have a very easy process and a high chance that you get the Hungarian citizenship and passport easily.

[@valeria-militiamessalina5672]

I think you made a great choice.🎉

[@seamusp5991]

Very cool, KW, love it! 😊

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for the support!

[@vasyapupkin8540]

Wow, didn’t know you have Romanian roots. I also received the Romanian citizenship by descent and always considered myself Romanian even though I’ve never technically lived there. I’m currently living in Porto btw, it was nice seeing some photos from there.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

That’s amazing-congratulations on receiving your Romanian citizenship! It’s great to connect with someone who shares a similar experience. Porto is a beautiful city-I’m glad you enjoyed the photos! Wishing you all the best on your journey @vasyapupkin8540! 😊

[@ARBITRAGEandTIME]

Hope you get what you need!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you! 🙏

[@johnharrison8089]

I think you will get it eventually. I got my 2nd passport/citizenship thru a long residence and marriage. It was easy compared to ancestry approach. What a difference it makes traveling living throughout Europe. It also helps to be in public speaking a language other than English. Europeans all default into English for me as they normally done speak Norwegian.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s inspiring to hear how your second passport through residence and marriage opened up so many doors for you in Europe. Best of luck with your continued adventures in Europe! 😊

[@Steve-o2w]

I'm doing the exact same thing as we speak. My grandfather came to Canada in 1926 from Hungary. He went back to Hungary to marry my grandmother and brought her to Canada in 1931. I'm hoping to get my Hungarian citizenship. I will follow along with you on your journey. Btw... I was just in Romania this summer. What an amazing country. Beautiful cities!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

That’s incredible! Wishing you the best of luck with your Hungarian citizenship journey-what a meaningful way to honor your family’s history. 😊🙌

[@Nicoleta020]

That's great news, my Romanian fellow

[@TravelingwithKristin]

🙏

[@florin-titusniculescu5871]

welcome back then 🤗 you are truly welcome

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for the kind words @florin-titusniculescu5871 🙏

[@vintageshoelady]

Hey Kristen, my husband has applied for Romanian citizenship by descent in 2024. As you know, they require a ton of documentation with apostilles. We would be more than happy to answer any questions. We actually moved to Bucharest and we have a great attorney.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much! Can you send me an email to hello [at] TravelingWithKristin.com? I appreciate it!

[@vintageshoelady]

@ yes, I just sent it.

[@HobbiesHobo]

Genealogy is a fun project even for those not seeking additional passports. Once I had the documents I needed (at minimal cost) for one of your countries of interest it was just a matter of paying a minimal application fee. No legal assistance was needed. Good luck on your quest. Mike

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks Mike, I appreciate your encouragement!

[@stefancelmare7165]

Wellcome 2 Romania ! 👏

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you!

[@informationcollectionpost3257]

Romania and Bulgaria interest me as countries because they are an inexpensive region to visit ancient Greek and Roman ruins. They are also countries that have castles to explore and are kind of wild and natural still. They have some really good natural nature paks in both. (caves, mountains, etc) It combines what you go to see in the rest of Europe without the congestion and urbanization and expense.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I completely agree-Romania and Bulgaria offer such a unique and affordable experience compared to the more tourist-heavy spots in Europe!

[@florinnutas8986]

Great story 👍

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you - I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@georgecoman5342]

Am locuit in Akron, OH din 1985--1996 =11 ani. 😊👍👍👍

[@costinhalaicu2746]

Hello Kristin, sounds awesome you want to regain the citizenship! I was paying attention throughout the video, and you explained that your grandfather was 9yo when he came to the US with his father, so that would mean he had Romanian citizenship before, so that's good news for you because one is eligible for citizenship through jus sanguinis only going back 2 generations. I saw that you already received some offers to connect you to a lawyer specializing in citizenships from people so won't add to that, but suffice to say I wish you the best of luck with the procedure (which I know is painfully bureaucratic)!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks so much! Any tips, feel free to let me know :)

[@DavidHerron]

WARNING - If you're going to explore Romanian Roots then you MUST learn the correct way to present a Romanian flag. The thing shown in your thumbnail is simply not a Romanian flag. As for exploring Romanian roots -- good luck with Arhiva Nationala

[@adrianperte1237]

Hi Kristine. When your great grandfather was born, that part of Romania was Austro Hungaria. Also, his name is Koncz, is a Hungarian name. You have a better chance of getting a Hungarian citizenship because they have an easier process

[@Valachorum]

I couldn't find your Romania travel vlogs. Is there any? It looks like you've ostentatiously bypassed this country.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I haven't been yet. I've had a few trips planned in the past with my mom but we had to cancel for various reasons. We went to Hungary once, though, to spread my ancestors' ashes.

[@Valachorum]

@@TravelingwithKristin I understand. After all, Europe should be, in one way or another, the white ocean into which the ancestral ashes of the Americas return. Good luck in all your endeavors!

[@mattobadia]

My Polish process is going well, just moved on from the research to application phase! Writing this from Sicilia!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Great to hear Matt - congrats!

[@AttilaPatakiJr]

Hi Kerstin, As many have pointed out, Koncz is a very popular name in Hungary 🇭🇺 Google Koncz Zsuzsa, she’s a national treasure 🎶 . Transylvania and the Kingdom of Hungary was an ethnically diverse place. “Koncz” may mean “meaty bone” so it could be that one of your early ancestors used to be a butcher. Good luck with the citizenship! & Thanks for making these videos. It’s fascinating to see us Europeans from a foreign perspective. 🙏🏻

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks @AttilaPatakiJr!!

[@DacianRider]

I wish you the best of luck ! ^^ noroc și sănătate ! 🌹

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you! 😊💓

[@BrennaDarazs]

A few years ago I had a consultation with a firm that assists with Italian citizenship by descent - jure sanguinis (“right of blood”). My grandfather was my anchor relative. He came over in 1921. But he had naturalized before he had my mom, so I was told I could not pursue that route any further. Very disappointing. He was born in Calabria, in a beautiful town called Cosenza. He loved talking about Italy. 🇮🇹

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Hi Brenna! Ah such a shame you couldn't get the Italian passport, but we'll still find a way for you to live in Europe 😊

[@lglubbock7593]

shame on italy

[@Lea-rb9nc]

I would love to know more about obtaining naturalization records. I have been living in France since 2007. The naturalization was my mother and half-sister. I have felt at home in the EU from the first day and citizenship is my goal. Thank you. 😊

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for sharing @Lea-rb9nc!

[@gabicraioveanu2590]

Bine ai revenit la rădăcini.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Multumesc mult 💗

[@zeitgeist888]

I am waiting for Italian citizenship by decent now from my grandfather and my grandmother was Hungarian. The Italian is a long process but not terribly hard. Make sure the ancestor didn't naturalize while the next in line was a minor as of Oct 2023 that changed and it is a lot harder and more expensive to do if it can be done at all it has to go through the Italian courts not a consulate or commune. Going through a female ancestor may be an option but also has to go through Italian courts. My family is from Sicily also and I hope to visit soon to see the family town and home from the 1800s. Best of luck on your journey.

[@cristiangaban960]

I'm from Transilvanya and one of my co-workers was named Koncz.

[@mctaguer]

Whoa Kristen, did NOT know that! So, did you ever come here this past year like you thought you would? I know an attorney here in Romania, in Bucuresti, that I'm pretty sure would be able to help you--they specialize in residency et al. Such things here are VERY bureaucratic AND the laws have changed often in recent years--these folks are always on top of it.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I haven't been yet but soon! I would love to reach out to your contact - can you email me to hello [at] travelingwithkristin.com?

[@mctaguer]

@@TravelingwithKristin Sure will. Good luck.

[@alex990ism]

the world has truly reached a low point when americans seek to obtain romanian citizenship to get benefits and have a better life and future, don't get me wrong, romania is great and it's passport is very powerfull, but dang how the world has changed since the 90s

[@therealvizualassassin]

OMG Youre Romanian? I love RO so much! Always visit to Cluj Napoca and Brasov.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Great to hear! A friend always tells me to go to Cluj as well.

[@sarahnd]

Not sure if it’s the same for Romania, but I helped my son get Italian citizenship by descent and the important part was that the first generation of your direct line to be born in the U.S. was born BEFORE their Italian parent was naturalized. This worked for him, since his grandmother was born before her father got his U.S. citizenship.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for the note, Sarah. Each country has different rules and I think that was why I didn't think I qualified for Italian citizenship before. But I'll look into it again :)

[@abrahamlevi3556]

In her scenario to claim Italian citizenship, she would have to jump through two hoops: Being born to a female who herself qualified being born before 1948, and then the "minor problem" that has recently cropped out due to an internal paper circulated by the Italian ministry of Justice to Italian consulates aboard stipulating the new interpretation of the law; that is, an Italian citizen losing his Italian citizenship due to naturalization disqualifies his children if they were still minors on the day of his naturalization. She can google it herself.

[@sarahnd]

@@abrahamlevi3556 Ah, so the rules have tightened up since my son got his citizenship. Good thing we did it 10 years ago! His grandmother was only 13 when her father was naturalized, so that wouldn't have worked. Thanks for the update.

[@ares1634]

@@TravelingwithKristin I doubt that such rule as in Italy applies for Romanian citizens, as many Moldovans and Ukrainians got Romanian citizenship in recent years just by proving that their ancestors were born in the kingdom of Romania. And of course, the oath in Romanian and general knowledge about Romania. :)

[@abrahamlevi3556]

@sarahnd It is more complicated that you can even imagine lol. Italy is a civil law jurisdiction. In civil law, case law is less important than in common law jurisdictions such as Canada, the USA, Australia and so on, whereby case law makes legal precedence that other judges have to take into consideration and follow. To put it in other words, case low is not binding. Cutting to the chase: the circular issued by the ministry of justice is an administrative act that consulates and communes must follow, but not the judges who have the liberty to interpret and apply the law the way they understand it. Some judges, however, prefer to follow that administrative circular, but some don't; that said, more judges nowadays prefer to follow that administrative circular.

[@UlpianHeritor]

Does the US recognize more than 2 citizenship? I know that in most countries, it is "illegal" to hold multiple (more than 2) citizenships. Btw, my grandfather was a fighter pilot in the Romanian airforce. Aviation is also in my blood :)

[@florinionteodorescu413]

@UlpianHeritor În most countries it is lawful to have two or more citizenships. The US and România are two of those which accept multiple citizenships.

[@simonazaim3438]

Hi Kristin! What a pleasant surprise! I’m Romanian and know an attorney who specializes in obtaining citizenship by descent. I’d be happy to assist with translations as well. If you’re interested, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Best regards!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much Simona! What is the best way to get in touch?

[@simonazaim3438]

My pleasure! I tried sharing my correspondence info here, but it seems that’s not allowed as the comment was deleted. I’ve sent you a request to join your group on the other platform-hopefully, we can connect there and exchange contact details.

[@dozierstadium]

Wow, I thought getting my birth country passport was involved, this is next level.

[@sobchak1]

Nevermind the documents, start learning about Steven the Great, Mihai Eminescu and some traditional food: sarmale, ciorba de perisoare, mamaliga cu branza si smantana. You will need to answer questions about all those and more and in the case of food, you will have to eat it for the exam (ok, i made up that part). Good luck and (hopefully) welcome!

[@DaciaProject]

Learn about Leana! She leveled Bucharest in short order!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I'm happy to contribute by sampling the local cuisine - no problem!

[@frankbarr1101]

Hi Kristin, I always enjoy your presentations. You mention you have Irish ancestry. If it is from a Grandparent as opposed to a Great Grandparent then you can claim Irish citizenship. The advantage of Irish citizenship is that possession of it also entitles you to live in the UK. Because of close proximity and history with the UK, there is a Common Travel Area arrangement between Ireland and the UK, meaning citizens of either can live and work etc in each other's country. Ireland, for the above reasons, is not a member of Schengen, but Irish citizens in being EU citizens have freedom of movement and residency in all Schengen countries under the same conditions as citizens of Schengen countries. The only difference is that on entering or leaving the Schengen area from or to Ireland, we have to show our passports. There are simply not many countries with better passports and for reasons given above - it is the best EU passport to possess as even after Brexit Irish people can still live and work in UK which is not true of other EU passports.

[@EfficientRVer]

That is very interesting. I'm the youngest child of a youngest child, so more closely related to foreign-born ancestors than other family members near my age. Hence, I'm thinking I should be the person to sort it all out, and maybe get a dual citizenship to open the door for that to my two kids and one grandkid. My maternal grandfather was an Irish citizen (who viewed it as unfortunate that he was physically born in England, in 1879) who moved to the US before meeting my grandmother. She had been born in Scotland in 1883 and sailed to the US in 1900. Their first child was born in 1905 in the US, and I'm not sure if either of my grandparents had been naturalized by then, vs later. I'm pretty sure they were both naturalized by the time my mother was born in 1916, though if not, it would not be the first surprising or even shocking thing I've found in my family history. As my grandfather fought for the US in the Spanish-American war, I'm guessing I can find some paperwork about him due to that. My grandmother came in via Ellis Island, and also traveled back to visit Scotland a few times, so there is paperwork from that, also. Maybe I'll run into a dead end of not finding documents. Or maybe I'll find out I'm not qualified, such as if my grandfather really wasn't an Irish citizen, or his not being born in Ireland is disqualifying. Time will tell, but it sounds like it's worth checking out, to get such a great additional passport with so many options for travel and residency.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for your comment, Frank, I'm so glad you enjoyed the video. From my previous research, it appeared that I could get Irish CBD through a great grandparent, but I haven't confirmed that yet. I'll update again, soon!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for sharing your story, @efficientRVer - it is definitely a worthwhile path to follow. See what you can find out!

[@anpleidhceeireannach9498]

​@TravelingwithKristin No,the law was changed in the 80s. Irish citizenship can no longer be obtained through a great grandparent,unless the child of the great grandparent obtained Irish citizenship by descent before the law was changed in the eighties

[@frankbarr1101]

@@TravelingwithKristin No! That was the case I believe but it's from Grandparents now

[@sweetnovember9346]

Than the whole world can obțin citizenship by descent.. we are all from somewhere.. I didn’t know if grand grand parents were from somewhere in the world you have a right to obtain citizenship.. that’s new to me ..

[@kypsunrider5983]

Not all countries allow it...some European countries do it because of the 2 WW wich displaced alot of their citizens!

[@RaduLacurezeanu]

At the time of your great gran father Transylvania in which Nădlac was included was in fact part of Austro-Hungarian empire so both Ion and Elena (Helen) were citizens of the same country... it was only in 1918 when Transylvania was reunited with original mother land of Romania..

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you, Radu! That explains why they had dual citizenship :)

[@RaduLacurezeanu]

@TravelingwithKristin you are welcome Kristin.. obtaining Romanian citizenship is not an easy task... one of the conditions would be to speak the language.. where do you stand in this respect? Do you speak some romanian?

[@vasarelly37]

Sorry, Transsylvania was not reunited, just taken and "united" with Romania.

[@seaman5705]

United - not "reunited" . There was never a previous official "union" between Romania and Transylvania - as Romania was created only few decades earlier . No need to spread our stupid nationalism to these people . Also Nadlac was inhabited by a Hungarian majority at that time .

[@yo2trader539]

I was under the impression Carpathian basin was ruled by East Eurasian Huns, Avars, and later the Magyars....since from at least 1,500 years ago, which I believe is why some regions in Ukraine and Romania still speak Hungarian. And around the same time Lower Danube region was ruled by Turkic-speaking East Eurasian nomadic BULGARs who were eventually absorbed by Slavic migration in later centuries. (Bulgar/Bulga most likely originates from "mixed people" in proto-Turkic.) I've no idea what the indigenous language was prior to Roman invasion, but it's quite remarkable that Latin/Romance survived all these years in modern-day Romania and Moldova.

[@eleonora78]

It's Nagykanija ,zs in hungarian is j (like Zsazsa or Zsuzsa meaning Susan ),sz is readed as s,also if the a dont have an accent is readed as o

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you! My Hungarian is non-existent ;)

[@petersloane252]

Hello Kristin, another interesting reel. An old, world travelling Brit 🇬🇧here, of 2nd gen Irish ancestry & who could easily get an Irish passport to circumvent Brexit’s madness but definitely will not.. Here’s why: My own experience is simply that the risks far exceed supposed flexibility benefit. Despite what your passport will say about national protection, dual holders will typically get very little consulate protection in the event of arrest or other troubles. Both countries will expect the other to help and neither will. Check the news for hostages (think Hamas in the Gaza) all dual nationals. That’s an horrific extreme. Even little tax problems, car accidents, personal injury. You’re on your own!🤷‍♂️

[@Fane-Babanu]

There's no drawback to double citizenship, except for US citizens who live overseas, but have to report and pay taxes to IRS every ear. All others pay taxes where they are residents most of the year or where the relevant income originates from. If you take Irish citizenship, you and your descendants will be able to freely travel and work anywhere in Europe, without time limitation and without that nasty Electronic Travel Authorization that's coming into force. For your knowledge, at least one Israeli hostage was freed by Hamas, thanks to his Russian co-citizenship. Putin got his freedom!

[@Fane-Babanu]

While abroad, you definitely will get consular protection both from UK and the Ireland government, except for UK protection in Ireland and Ireland protection in the UK. I imagine you don't need either.

[@petersloane252]

@@Fane-Babanuthat is interesting, thanks. On US citizenship, my parents lived there briefly between 1952-56, my sister was born there although never lived & so dual national by default. She hits 70 next year & has only just managed to un-citizen (is that a word) from the US & the interminable IRS returns. How mad! 😮

[@Fane-Babanu]

@@petersloane252 , yes, there was the notable case of former UK Prime-Minister Boris Johnson, who was born in the US while his parents were teaching there. One day, while being Mayor of London, he was stopped from boarding a US-bound plane, because he lacked a US passport. That's when he understood that he has to get read of his US citizenship. He got a confidential and preferrential agreement from the IRS. He got that because none of his revenue or net value originated from the US. The $2350 renounciation fee is small potatoes. You have to pay a farewell tax that is equivalent to what your inheritors would pay when you die. Basically, to get rid of the US citizenship, you die and then you are born again, like Jesus!

[@BrianGrady-wo7mo]

This is such an unexpected and interesting video, Kristin. My wife and I were just in Arad, Romania for this exact purpose. I was able to get an appointment to visit the Arad branch of the Romanian National Archives. I went for several days, and with the incredible help of the head archivist there, found all kinds of original documents from my family history there. I was allowed to photograph all documents, as well as request an official copy if needed. I was extremely impressed and the cost was very affordable. Less than $20. We are looking into lawyers as well to help with the same journey you are on. Best of luck!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much for your wonderful message and for sharing your Brasov experience @BrianGrady-wo7mo! It means a lot to hear that Romania left such a positive impression on you. Wishing you all the best on your adventures!

[@RickJuniorO]

I had no idea your citizenship could be revoked! Its nice you can at least apply for for heritage citizenship regardless! Happy for you! Yes the world tends to be in cinstant flux, most fled to the US to flee war, now many wish to flee the US for the reasons of this time.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much for your kind words and support! I truly appreciate your thoughtful perspective @RickJuniorO.

[@O_Nate_O]

Waiting for my romanian passport as well...actualy taking to long....🎉

[@TravelingwithKristin]

How exciting! I can imagine the anticipation while waiting for your Romanian passport. I hope it arrives soon, and that the wait is worth it! 🎉

[@UberMensch-e1d]

Romanian flag, the colors are arranged on vertical.

[@adrianabrown1011]

Wow, Romanians coming out of the woodwork! 😂 I immigrated from Romania as an adult and I want to get my Romanian passport back. About your ancestor named Yan Koncz, that sounds Hungarian. Romanian version of John is Ion. I am not sure about historic dates but i know Transilvania (that's about a third of Romania) was Hungarian territory for 100 years then was returned to Romania so there is a large Hungarian population in that area. Good luck fighting the bureaucracy, it's not for the faint of heart!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Nice to meet you, Adriana! I also thought Yan sounded Hungarian but I'm wondering if someone spelled it wrong on the form I was looking at. Ion sounds more like it! I'll keep you posted on the progress :)

[@lglubbock7593]

do you really need a passport you are romanian by birth you should be able to get national ID card and use that to stay in romania how long you want

[@Valachorum]

I don't think that matters. Ethnic Hungarian citizens automatically became Romanian citizens, just like ethnic Romanians.

[@Fane-Babanu]

@@Valachorum , yes, there's no ethnicity criteria, but you have to speak Romanian.

[@katalinkozak9869]

Vice versa- Transylvania and Banat was 1000 year part of the Hungarian kingdom, became part of Romania in 1920. Sorry, such details matter.

[@thiagoracca]

The italian cirizenship is a long process, but totally rewarding

[@jPuma817]

Wow Congrats Kristin, cant wait to get my European Citizenship, are you gonna renounce your US citizenship to avoid the tax burden? Its ridiculous that you to pay(2.5k) to renounce

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you! I'll be keeping my US citizenship: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iKfOfYaAlpmHh7M

[@matthewdillon1210]

In waiting game for my Irish Citizenship via Foreign Births Registration as of 3 weeks ago.

[@matthewdillon1210]

Goal is get EU membership so I can live and work in Portugal in 4 years.

[@Stephen_T_Sampson]

I'm getting my dna test from ancestry on February 10. I don't know where my family come from. Can't wait!!!

[@Fane-Babanu]

My DNA test shows that my paternal ancestor (Y-gene) was a Sardinian. Whether that was 1 thousand or 10 thousand years ago, I don't know.

[@Stephen_T_Sampson]

@Fane-Babanu dna test don't matter. I had cousin whose family from tanzania. It doesn't matter if white, asian, black, Indian, South America, Middle east people can get along.

[@Fane-Babanu]

​@@Stephen_T_Sampson , sure. I took the DNA test at the request of some people who bore my family name, quite rare. It established that we are related, with our paternal ancestor having lived in the first half of the 19'th century. It was nice to know my new cousins.

[@Stephen_T_Sampson]

@Fane-Babanu Last name Sampson in English is rare. It is a germanic last name, it comes from people in normandy France. It came to english in the middle ages through the normandy invasion. It was supposedly recorded in the hundred rolls of English King Rollo. They were Norman's a group mixed of settlers of west Francia, and vikings from denmark and scandanavia, and flemish people. They named themselves after Samson a welsh bishop he lived in 4th century ad.

[@junuc10]

I became a Spanish citizen by descent in 2023. I am very happy that I made that decision especially now with the rise of Fascism in America.

[@OilBaron100]

Are you Shepardic Jewish? Congratulations

[@elizabethanderson8528]

I agree with you. I don't even want to listen to any news about Trump, you can tell he was an average student...it shows. I can only hope next assignation attempt is successful. 😮

[@carlosnorris352]

Fascists are out. We got our freedom of speech back and soon our right to keep all our income back. But Europe is a fine place.

[@CedricJustice]

I escaped to Spain too. Escapé a España también.

[@junuc10]

@ It will probably be staged like the others.

[@GeoEmertech]

If he was called Jan then he is Hungarian as well. Until 1918 Nadlac, which is in Transilvania, was part of the Austro-Hungarian empire. After WW1 Romania united with Transilvania which had a mix of ethnicities, with romanians and hungarians making up the bulk of it. So your grand-grandfather had actually dual citizenship, he was both Hungarian and Romanian :). Although, he probably would have identified as Hungarian. And the takeover of Transilvania might have played a role in his emigrating to the US. It wasn't a pretty transition and we even fought a brief war with the Hungarians and occupied Budapest for 2 years. So yeah, history is very interesting in these parts of the world. Anyway, I wish you the best in your quest for the Romanian citizenship and I hope to see you soon in Bucharest :). Pro-tip: Cyprus has only a requirement of 2 months per year for its residency permit. So if you want a semi-permanent base while you get your citizenship papers, it might be a very good choice.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Hi Geo, you are correct! I think that he identified as Hungarian-Romanian. Very interesting history indeed!

[@mimisor66]

​@@TravelingwithKristinif he was Catholic or Protestant, he was clearly an ethnic Hungarian. Romanians were either Orthodox Christians or Greek Catholics. As he married somebody Irish, it seems to me he was Hungarian ethnic.

[@Sofia-0001]

@@mimisor66 Most Transylvanian Romanians were Catholic by 1918. Not to mention the massive change of all Romanian noble families and land owners to Catholicism after being forced by Unio Trium Nationum 1439, in order to keep status and land. By 1918 only 18% of Transylvanian Romanians were Orthodox.

[@Sofia-0001]

@@TravelingwithKristin Geo skips the fact that by the time your great grand father was born all Transylvanian names were Magyarized already, even long before that. Myself had to dig into a lot of Hungarian names, to find my inherited properties, even though my both sides were always ethnic Romanian. My grand father and his brothers also migrated to the US in 1930s for work but they came back after the war and bought lots of land, only to be taken by the communists a few years later.

[@butenbremer1965]

German here. All of the Countries you've mentioned actually happen to be in Schengen Zone. As far as I know, Italy has the laxest rules on attaining citizenship for descent, so you might wanna try... Anyhow, no matter what your decision on your hopefully future EU citizenship may end up to be, being an EU citizen surely guarantees a Safe Haven from the infamous and authoritanian Orange Man we all dislike so badly abroad.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you; I will look into Italian citizenship as well. I checked once about 10 years ago and didn't qualify, but I'll see if anything has changed.