Check all the details of the Italian nationality law

How to get an Italian passport after citizenship recognition

The Italian passport is not just a travel document; it’s a gateway to a world of opportunities. As the official travel document for Italian citizens, it grants the holder unprecedented global access, including visa-free entry to numerous countries. This includes the United States, which allows Italian passport holders to visit for up to 90 days without a visa through the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) program. More than a tool for travel, the Italian passport is a powerful symbol of belonging to the European Union (EU). It confers rights such as free movement and residency within EU member states.

11/19/2024

Translation for Italian citizenship: what you need to know

Obtaining Italian citizenship is an intricate and detail-oriented process. One crucial aspect of this journey is ensuring that all documents submitted are accurately translated into Italian. This necessity rises from the requirement to have documents issued in other countries accepted by Italian authorities, ensuring they are understood and recognized without any issues. Translation for Italian citizenship is not merely a bureaucratic hurdle but a fundamental step in guaranteeing that your application is clear, complete, and compliant with Italian regulations.

11/19/2024

Federal apostille: a key step in your Italian citizenship process

An apostille is an official certification that verifies the authenticity of documents intended for use in international contexts. It’s essential for documents to be authenticated with an apostille when they are part of processes such as acquiring Italian citizenship. The apostille certifies that the document in question is legitimate and has been issued by the appropriate authority, thereby ensuring its acceptance by foreign institutions. This practice aligns with the Hague Convention of 1961, which established a simplified method of certifying documents for international use.

11/18/2024

Spelling discrepancies on documents: don’t let them delay your Italian citizenship

In the intricate journey of applying for Italian citizenship, accurate documentation emerges as a pivotal element. Italian authorities maintain stringent requirements to ensure that all names and dates on the documents presented align seamlessly. This consistency is crucial to verify the lineage and, consequently, the eligibility of the applicant. Whether pursuing citizenship through ancestry (jus sanguinis) or other routes, consistency in the documentation stands as a non-negotiable pillar. Any spelling discrepancies, particularly in the spelling of names, can pose significant challenges and hinder the application process.

11/15/2024

The importance of the certificate of naturalization in your Italian citizenship journey

A Naturalization Certificate is a pivotal document in the process of applying for Italian citizenship by jus sanguinis, which translates to “right of blood.” This legal principle allows individuals to claim Italian citizenship through their ancestry, provided they meet specific criteria. A key part of this process is proving the citizenship status of one’s Italian ancestor, which is where the Naturalization Certificate comes into play. This document provides concrete evidence of whether and when an ancestor naturalized in another country, thus potentially losing their Italian citizenship.

11/14/2024

Avoid delays: why your Italian citizenship portfolio matters

The Italian Citizenship Portfolio is the meticulously organized collection of all necessary documents required to prove one’s right to Italian citizenship by descent. This portfolio plays a pivotal role in the recognition process, ensuring that all evidence is systematically presented. Keeping this portfolio comprehensive and well-organized not only mitigates the risk of delays but also significantly enhances the likelihood of a successful outcome. Recognizing the complexity and the high stakes involved in this process, it becomes evident why attention to detail and thorough preparation are paramount.

11/13/2024

If you plan on applying for Italian citizenship and want to learn more about its legislation, you have come to the right place. Whether you’re a descendant of Italian ancestors or simply curious about the process, this resource will demystify the intricacies of Italian citizenship laws. From acquiring citizenship by descent to understanding eligibility criteria, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the legal routes that lead to becoming an Italian citizen.

Italian Citizenship by Descent

Italian citizenship is governed by Law No. 91 of February 5, 1992, along with its implementing regulations. These laws emphasize individual will, lineage, and the right to hold multiple nationalities.

Italian citizenship by descent is based on the Principle of Jus Sanguinis (Bloodline Descent). This means that Italian citizenship can be acquired through descent from Italian parents or ancestors. There are no generational limits, therefore, one’s lineage can extend back indefinitely.

Recognition Procedure:

To establish Italian citizenship by descent you must verify that your lineage began with an Italian ancestor and prove that your Italian ancestor maintained their Italian citizenship until the birth of the next in line. Required documents include birth and marriage certificates, authenticated with an apostille, and accompanied by official translations.

Maternal lineage transmission is possible only for children born after January 1, 1948 (the date of the Italian Constitution’s enactment). In case your Italian ancestor is a woman that gave birth to the next in line before 1948, the only option is to judicialize the process.

Naturalization and Renunciation:

The absence of naturalization or the date of any naturalization by the Italian ancestor must be documented. Neither the applicant nor their ascendants should have renounced Italian citizenship.

Competent Authorities:

Recognition procedures are overseen by the relevant consular office based on the applicant’s place of residence (for those living abroad). There is also the option of applying for Italian citizenship in Italy at a commune in Italy.

Multiple Nationality:

Since 1992, Italy allows individuals to hold more than one citizenship simultaneously. For personalized guidance, consult the Italian consular services or relevant authorities. Remember that this information is based on the legal framework in effect as of the specified dates.

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Italian Citizenship by Marriage

Italian citizenship can be acquired by foreign or stateless spouses of Italian citizens. The legal framework governing this process includes Articles 5, 6, 7, and 8 of Law 91/92, along with subsequent amendments. Let’s explore the requirements and steps involved:

Residence Requirements:

In Italy: Foreign spouses must have two years of legal residence after marriage or since the date of their Italian spouse’s naturalization.

Abroad: Foreign spouses must have three years of legal residence after marriage or since the date of their Italian spouse’s naturalization.

These terms are halved if the couple has children born of or adopted during the marriage.

Marriage Validity and Persistence:

The marriage must be valid under Italian law and its certificate must be registered with the competent Italian Municipality. The marriage bond must persist until the adoption of the citizenship decree.

Criminal Record and Security Checks:

The foreign spouse must have no convictions for offenses leading to a maximum penalty of three years of imprisonment. Convictions by foreign judicial authorities exceeding one year for non-political offenses must not be registered in Italy. Additionaly, no obstacles related to the security of the Italian Republic should exist.

Italian Language Requirement:

Applicants must demonstrate certified knowledge of the Italian language at a level not lower than B1 of the Common European Framework for Languages. This language requirement applies to applications submitted from December 4, 2018, onward.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents to the Interior Ministry:

Birth Certificate: From the country of origin (legalized/authenticated with an apostille and translated). Includes personal details, date and place of birth, and information on paternity and maternity. In case obtaining the birth certificate is impossible, a certificate issued by diplomatic-consular authorities can suffice.

Criminal Record Certificate: From the country of origin and any third countries of residence. It must be Legalized/authenticated with an apostille and translated as per current legislation.

Payment Receipt: Proof of payment of the €250 fee.

Identity Document: Photocopy of a valid passport (pages with personal data, photograph, issue, and expiry dates) or identity card.

Italian Language Certification: A certificate demonstrating proficiency at the required B1 level.

Please note that EU Regulation No. 2016/1191 exempts EU citizens from document legalization if issued by their Member State of nationality.

Acquisition of Italian Citizenship for Minor Children

Pathways:

When a minor child is acknowledged by an Italian citizen as having Italian parentage, they automatically acquire Italian citizenship. This acknowledgment can occur through a formal process, recognizing the child’s lineage.

Judicial Ruling on Paternity/Maternity:

If a judicial ruling establishes the child’s Italian parentage, they become Italian citizens. The court’s decision confirms the child’s legal connection to an Italian parent.

Relevant Dates and Legal Basis:

Law No. 91/92: This legislation outlines the principles governing Italian citizenship.
Article 2, Paragraph 1: Specifically addresses the acquisition of citizenship for minors through acknowledgment or judicial rulings.

Expert Assistance

If you find the information overwhelming and wish for someone to handle your citizenship process, consider relying on io.citizenship! Our team of experts is ready to help make your dream of Italian citizenship come true. Contact us today!