Who Can Request Italian Citizenship?

Italian law offers several pathways to citizenship, each with specific eligibility criteria. Understanding these requirements is crucial for anyone considering an application. Below, we outline the main categories under which you may qualify for Italian citizenship:

Citizenship by Descent (Jure Sanguinis)

If you have Italian ancestry, you may be eligible for Italian citizenship by descent, known as Jure Sanguinis. This law allows individuals with Italian lineage to claim citizenship if they can prove a direct, unbroken line of descent from an Italian ancestor. Key conditions include:

• Your Italian ancestor must not have renounced Italian citizenship before the birth of their child.
• There are no generational limits in terms of how far back your Italian ancestor must be in the genealogy tree. However, the documentation becomes more challenging to collect the further back the lineage goes.
• Important Note: If your Italian ancestor is a woman, and she is in your direct line of descent, there are specific considerations. Women were not able to pass on Italian citizenship to their children born before January 1, 1948. If this applies to your situation, you cannot request citizenship through the standard administrative process. However, you may still pursue Italian citizenship through a judicial process. Many court cases have ruled in favor of applicants in similar situations, recognizing their right to citizenship despite the historical limitations. This judicial route can still lead to a successful outcome, provided the necessary evidence and legal arguments are presented.

To apply, you must provide comprehensive documentation, such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, proving your lineage back to an Italian citizen.

Citizenship by Marriage

Foreign nationals married to an Italian citizen can apply for citizenship after a certain period of marriage. The requirements are:

• At least two years of marriage if residing in Italy, or three years if living abroad.
• Proof of an ongoing marriage at the time of application.
• The absence of any criminal records and adequate knowledge of the Italian language.

Citizenship by Naturalization

Individuals may also obtain Italian citizenship through naturalization. This pathway typically involves a longer process and is available to those who have legally resided in Italy for a specific period:

• At least 10 years of legal residence in Italy for non-EU citizens.
• Four years for EU citizens.
• Reduced residency periods for individuals with Italian ancestry or those adopted by Italian citizens.

Citizenship for Children Born to Italian Citizens

Any child born to an Italian citizen parent, regardless of birthplace, is automatically considered an Italian citizen. Additionally, children born in Italy to foreign parents may also acquire citizenship if they meet specific conditions:

• If both parents are stateless or cannot pass their citizenship to the child.
• If the child has resided in Italy without interruption until reaching adulthood and declares their desire to acquire Italian citizenship before turning 19.

Citizenship by Reacquisition

If you or your immediate family members lost Italian citizenship due to naturalization in another country, you might be eligible to reacquire it. The process involves:

• Establishing residency in Italy for a minimum period.
• Declaring the intent to reacquire citizenship before the competent Italian authority.

Why Seek Italian Citizenship?

Italian citizenship offers numerous benefits, including the right to live, work, and study in Italy and other European Union countries. It also allows easier access to healthcare, education, and social services. Moreover, it provides the opportunity to reconnect with your Italian heritage and fully embrace the cultural and historical roots of your family.

Our Services

If you believe you may be eligible for Italian citizenship, identifying the birthplace of your Italian ancestor is a crucial first step. Our specialized genealogy research services focus on helping you trace the location where your Italian ancestor was born. This information is essential for gathering the necessary documentation to support your citizenship application. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in discovering your Italian roots and taking the first step towards becoming an Italian citizen!