What to take into consideration when seeking dual citizenship in Italy?

italian-citizenship-laws-history
The concept of Italian citizenship emerged with the unification of Italy in 1861. Before this, Italy was fragmented into multiple states, each with its own legal traditions and identity. The Law of March 17, 1861, proclaimed the Kingdom of Italy, laying the foundation for a unified national identity. However, formal citizenship laws were still undefined.
Decree-Law No. 36/2025 approved and the new rules for Italian citizenship: Photo of the Italian parlament
On May 20, 2025, the Chamber of Deputies approved Decree-Law No. 36/2025, now law No. 74 of May 23, 2025, with 137 votes in favor and 83 against, finalizing the proposal introduced in March by the coalition led by Giorgia Meloni, which was previously passed by the Senate on May 15.
From North to South - the best places to live in Italy: Photo of a church near the Dolomites, in the Italian alps
Italy is a country steeped in cultural heritage, boasting stunning landscapes and a deep historical legacy. Divided into regions, provinces, municipalities, and metropolitan cities, each area offers a distinct lifestyle and unique experiences. In this exploration, we’ll uncover the best places to live, considering factors like culture, economy, and quality of life.
Legal arguments for Italian citizenship by descent under decree-law 36/2025: Photo of man walking through a historical building in Italy
Decree-Law 36/2025 has significantly restricted Italian citizenship by descent, allowing recognition only for children and grandchildren of Italians, while excluding great-grandchildren and further descendants. This change has sparked legal and constitutional debates.
The role of Italy's regions in shaping national identity: Photo of an historical building in Rome
Italy is renowned for its rich regional diversity, which has deeply influenced its national identity throughout history. From distinct dialects and culinary traditions to varied economic models, each region has contributed uniquely to Italy’s character.
decree-law-citizenship-impact
On May 15, 2025, the Italian Senate approved Decree-Law No. 36/2025, a legislative measure that restricts the recognition of Italian citizenship by descent (jus sanguinis). The measure has sparked intense debate, with critics raising concerns about its constitutional validity, retroactive effects, and potential discrimination.
Getting dual citizenship in Italy: Piazza Venezia em Roma
Summary

Applying for italian citizenship in Italy

Getting Italian dual citizenship can be a game-changer, whether you’re looking for work, study, or simply wanting to make your Italian heritage official. In this guide, we’ll explore the process of applying for Italian citizenship directly in Italy and highlight key considerations.

Italian citizenship by descent:

Italian citizenship, based on jus sanguinis (the “right of blood”), transcends mere geography. Jus sanguinis means that Italian citizenship is intricately tied to your lineage, not your place of birth, unlike the jure soli system (used in the United States), where birthplace matters. Additionally, Italian dual citizenship knows no generational bounds. Whether your Italian ancestor is your grandfather, great-grandfather, or even further back, the unbroken chain of heritage remains intact.

However, in order to apply for Italian citizenship, having an Italian ancestor isn’t enough; you need specific information about them, such as birth and death dates, etc. Fortunately, our resources now allow tracing Italian origins without leaving your doorstep.

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Applying for Italian Dual Citizenship Directly in Italy

When pursuing Italian dual citizenship, opting to apply directly in Italy can be advantageous. Here are key considerations to ensure a smooth process:

  1. Choosing the Right Location:

Comune Selection: Consider applying through a commune in Italy. While big cities like Rome or Milan may have busier offices, smaller towns often offer faster processing.

Clerk Interaction: Be mindful of the clerk handling your case. 

Documentation: Proper documentation is crucial, so ensure you have all necessary paperwork.

  1. Physical Presence Requirement:

To apply directly in Italy, you must be physically present there. Remote applications are not possible.

Before relocating, verify that your chosen clerk is available and in office. Contact the commune for confirmation.

  1. Language Matters:

Speaking Italian is essential. Italians may be less willing to assist if you don’t communicate in their language, so learning basic Italian phrases can help you navigate the process effectively.

  1. Arrival Procedures:

If flying into Italy, ensure your passport receives an entry stamp. This stamp is necessary for your citizenship application.

In case your initial arrival is in another EU country, submit a “declaration of presence” upon reaching Italy. Local police will verify your residency within 45 days.

Remember, embracing your Italian heritage through dual citizenship is a rewarding journey.

Conclusion

Navigating Italian dual citizenship directly in Italy involves understanding your heritage, meeting requirements, and being prepared for the process. Whether you’re dreaming of European adventures or simply want to honor your roots, take the necessary steps and embrace your Italian identity! If you need assistance to deal with these tasks, to have someone who speaks Italian and knows the intricate details of this process, count on io.citizenship! Our team of experts will handle your application and ensure that your journey is peaceful and secure. Contact us today!

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.

The quote is quick, free, and without any commitment. We'll get back to you with more details within 24 hours.

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.