In today’s digital age, many governmental processes have transitioned to online platforms, making it easier for individuals to access services from the comfort of their homes.
Applying for Italian citizenship may be one of these processes, although it isn’t entirely done online. This article explores the viability and steps involved in applying for Italian citizenship online, focusing on three main pathways: citizenship by descent, citizenship by marriage, and citizenship by residency.
Citizenship by descent
Process and requirements
Italian citizenship by descent, also known as “jure sanguinis,” allows individuals of Italian descent to claim citizenship based on their ancestry. The process involves proving that you have an Italian ancestor and that the lineage has not been broken by naturalization in another country before the birth of the next descendant.
Online application procedures
While the initial research and document gathering can be done online, the actual application process for citizenship by descent typically requires in-person visits to Italian consulates or embassies, except for the consulates in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, and New York, where you can apply by mail.
However, consulates now require that you book your appointment through an online system called Prenot@mi. Some preliminary steps, such as filling out forms and submitting initial documents, can also be done online.
Necessary documents
To apply for Italian citizenship by descent, you will need the following documents:
- Birth certificates of the applicant and all ancestors in the direct line to the Italian ancestor.
- Marriage certificates of the applicant and ancestors.
- Death certificates of ancestors (if applicable).
- Naturalization records (Or proof of the lack of) of the Italian ancestor (if they emigrated to another country).
- Proof of residency and identification documents.
These documents often need to be translated into Italian and apostilled, which can also be facilitated through online services.
Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.
Citizenship by marriage
Eligibility criteria
Italian citizenship by marriage is available to spouses of Italian citizens. To be eligible, the marriage must be legally recognized in Italy, and the couple must have been married for at least two years if residing in Italy, or three years if residing abroad. These periods are halved if the couple has children.
Online application process
The application for citizenship by marriage can be initiated online through the Italian Ministry of the Interior’s website. Applicants need to create an account and fill out the necessary forms online. The process involves several steps:
- Registration: Create an account on the Ministry of the Interior’s portal.
- Form Submission: Fill out and submit the application form online.
- Document Upload: Upload scanned copies of required documents, including the marriage certificate, spouse’s Italian citizenship certificate, and proof of language proficiency (B1 level in Italian).
- Payment: Pay the application fee online.
- Appointment Booking: Schedule an appointment at the local Prefettura or consulate for document verification and fingerprinting.
Required documentation
The documents required for citizenship by marriage include:
- Marriage certificate.
- Spouse’s Italian citizenship certificate.
- Applicant’s birth certificate.
- Proof of language proficiency (B1 level in Italian).
- Proof of residence.
- Identification documents.
These documents must be translated into Italian and apostilled, and the originals must be presented during the in-person appointment.
Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.
Citizenship by residency
Residency requirements
Italian citizenship by residency is available to individuals who have legally resided in Italy for a certain period. The required residency period varies depending on the applicant’s nationality and circumstances:
- 4 years for EU citizens.
- 10 years for non-EU citizens.
- 5 years for stateless individuals or refugees.
- 3 years for descendants of Italian citizens up to the second degree and for foreigners born in Italy.
Online application process
The application for citizenship by residency can also be initiated online through the Ministry of the Interior’s website. The process involves several steps:
- Form submission: You must access the Ministry of the Interior’s portal, there you will find the application form. Fill out and submit the application form online.
- Document upload: Upload scanned copies of required documents, including proof of residency, income statements, and identification documents.
- Payment: Pay the application fee online.
The process may take up to four years to complete. Once it is finished, your local town hall will receive an official decree. You will then be scheduled to attend a ceremony within six months, during which you will take an oath and finally become an Italian dual citizen.
Required documentation
The documents required for citizenship by residency include:
- Your ID.
- Birth certificate.
- Criminal record.
- Italian language official certification.
- €250.00 fee receipt.
- Marca da bollo – Italian revenue stamp.
While the complete process of obtaining Italian citizenship cannot be done entirely online, significant portions of the application process for citizenship by descent, marriage, and residency can be initiated and managed through online platforms.
This digital shift has made it more convenient for applicants to gather information, submit forms, and book appointments. However, in-person visits to consulates or local prefectures are still required for document verification and fingerprinting.
By leveraging online resources and understanding the specific requirements for each pathway, applicants can streamline their journey towards obtaining Italian citizenship.
