Certificate of Non-Naturalization for Venezuelans: what it is, why it matters, and how to obtain it

For many Venezuelans living abroad—especially those applying for citizenship by descent (such as Italian or Spanish nationality)—the Certificate of Non-Naturalization has become a key document. However, it is still one of the most misunderstood: What does it actually certify? Where is it requested? Is it mandatory? What happens if it cannot be obtained? In this article, we explain clearly what the Certificate of Non-Naturalization is, when you need it, and how to handle the process correctly. What is the Certificate of Non-Naturalization? It is an official document issued by the Venezuelan State certifying that a person did not acquire Venezuelan nationality by naturalization. In simple terms, it proves that the person kept their original nationality and was never naturalized as a Venezuelan citizen. What is it used for? This certificate is mainly required in procedures such as: Italian citizenship by descent Spanish nationality by option or origin Nationality recognition in other countries Special migration procedures International inheritance and succession cases Its main purpose is to prove that an ancestor did not lose their original nationality, which is essential in many legal systems that apply the principle of nationality by blood (ius sanguinis). Who needs it? It is usually required for: Venezuelans who are children or grandchildren of foreign nationals Individuals proving nationality through family lineage Descendants of Europeans who emigrated to Venezuela Citizenship applicants who must prove continuity of nationality Not every Venezuelan needs this document. It is only requested when: There is a foreign ancestor, and The foreign authority must confirm that the person was not naturalized as Venezuelan. Where is it requested? The Certificate of Non-Naturalization is obtained through: The Ministry of Popular Power for Interior Relations, Justice and Peace Central registries or special administrative procedures In some cases, through consular channels or legal representation in Venezuela Given the current institutional situation in the country, this is often not a simple process, and usually requires: Special powers of attorney Authorized representatives Proper legal support Does it need to be apostilled? Yes. For the document to be valid abroad, it must: Be correctly issued Be apostilled In many cases, be officially translated Without these steps, the certificate has no legal effect outside Venezuela. Common mistakes in this process Confusing it with other certificates It is not the same as a nationality certificate or a birth certificate. Requesting it without knowing if it is actually required Not every procedure demands it. Failing to apostille it Without apostille, it is not valid internationally. Relying on unqualified agents This leads to delays, invalid documents, and loss of money. What if it cannot be obtained? In some cases, when the certificate cannot be issued for reasons beyond the applicant’s control, certain countries may accept: Sworn statements Alternative certifications Court rulings Consular reports However, these alternatives must always be evaluated legally, case by case. The Legal Venexter approach At Legal Venexter, we support Venezuelans in processes where the Certificate of Non-Naturalization is a key element, especially in: Italian citizenship by descent Recognition of European nationality Complex migration procedures Legalization and apostille of Venezuelan documents Our approach is not just about paperwork. We design a complete legal strategy so that your case does not depend on improvisation. Conclusion The Certificate of Non-Naturalization is not just another document. In many cases, it is the proof that allows a family to reclaim its legal history and original nationality. Handling it correctly can make the difference between a successful process and years of delay. If you are in a citizenship or migration process and are unsure whether you need this document, a timely legal assessment can save you months—or even years—of uncertainty.