How Italian citizenship opens doors to job opportunities in Italy for Americans

How Italy’s supreme court challenges government authority: photo of Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome
Two key developments this past week signal a powerful, unambiguous message: the courts are keeping a close watch on legislation that could infringe fundamental rights. The most emblematic example is the challenge posed by the Cassazione—Italy’s Supreme Court—against the government’s Decreto Sicurezza (Security Decree).
Constitutional court of Italy examines limits on the right to citizenship: photo of the town hall of Aostra, the Hôtel de Ville
In a landmark case poised to reshape the future of Italian citizenship by descent, Italy’s Constitutional Court convened on June 24 to assess whether the long-standing principle of jus sanguinis—citizenship through bloodline without generational limits—stands on solid constitutional ground.
The role of the italian diaspora in global italian identity: Photo of a small city in Tuscany
The Italian diaspora refers to the vast movement of Italians to different parts of the world, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries. Millions of Italians left their homeland, seeking economic opportunities, escaping political turmoil, or following family networks abroad.
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.
Learn how Italian citizenship opens job opportunities for Americans, the benefits of living in Italy, key sectors.
Summary

Italy offers a diverse and dynamic job market with various opportunities for both locals and foreigners. The country is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant lifestyle. It also has a robust economy with multiple sectors experiencing growth. Key industries include fashion, design, technology, and engineering, which are continually evolving and creating new job opportunities. 

Additionally, Italy’s commitment to innovation and sustainability has led to the emergence of green jobs and tech-driven roles. For foreigners, particularly Americans, Italy offers a unique blend of professional opportunities and an enriching cultural experience.

Benefits of Italian citizenship for Americans

Obtaining Italian citizenship provides Americans with significant advantages in the European job market. An Italian passport not only allows for visa-free travel within the European Union but also grants the right to live and work in any of the 27 member states. This freedom of movement eliminates the need for lengthy visa applications and work permits, making it easier to secure employment. Furthermore, holding an Italian passport can enhance one’s competitiveness in the job market, as many employers prefer candidates who already have the legal right to work in the EU. This advantage can be a game-changer, opening doors to a wider range of job opportunities across Europe.

Exploring the benefits of Italian citizenship

Key sectors with demand for American professionals

Several sectors in Italy have a high demand for skilled professionals, particularly those from the United States. The information technology sector is one such area, with a growing need for experts in software development, cybersecurity, and data analysis. Italy’s fashion and design industries are globally renowned, and American professionals with expertise in these fields can find exciting opportunities in cities like Milan and Florence. Engineering is another sector with significant demand, especially in areas like renewable energy, civil engineering, and automotive design.

Additionally, native English speakers are highly sought after in various roles, including teaching, translation, and content creation. International schools, language institutes, and multinational companies value the skills of native English speakers, offering numerous positions that cater to their expertise. This demand extends to business and marketing roles where fluency in English is a considerable asset.

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

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Requirements to obtain Italian citizenship jus sanguinis

IOn March 28, 2025, Italy enacted Decree-Law No. 36/2025, introducing major restrictions on jus sanguinis citizenship. The approval of Law No. 74 of May 23, 2025, solidified the new limitations proposed by Decree–Law No. 36/2025. Historically, Italian citizenship recognition had no generational limits, allowing great-grandchildren and further descendants to apply.

The new law restricts eligibility to individuals whose Italian parent(s) or grandparent(s) were born in Italy. If an individual’s parents—but not grandparents—resided in Italy for at least two consecutive years, they may still qualify for citizenship under the eligibility criteria. Additionally, the Italian ancestor must have held Italian citizenship exclusively at the time of their death. This means that if your Italian parent or grandparent naturalized as a citizen of another country, you would no longer be eligible for Italian citizenship.

This law is controversial, as it retroactively regulates past nationality claims, contradicting established legal principles that laws should only govern future events. In fact, the Italian Constitutional Court has ruled in past cases that retroactive restrictions must be proportionate and reasonable.

This suggests that, in the near future, applicants may increasingly turn to the judicial route to challenge unconstitutional changes in citizenship law. For further updates and insights, follow our channels to stay informed.

Applicants must provide birth, marriage, and—if necessary—death certificates, all of which must be authenticated with an apostille and translated into Italian. 

As of June 2025, the judicial route is the only available option for obtaining Italian citizenship. While all administrative applications will be centralized within a new governmental body in Italy, the specific procedures and operational framework have yet to be determined.

io.citizen has maintained a perfect track record of successful cases. One notable example is João Silva, who successfully obtained Italian citizenship with the guidance of io.citizen. Today, João proudly embraces his Italian identity.

It is important to highlight that, considering recent changes imposed by Law No. 74 of May 23, 2025, the outcome of constitutional challenges filed in court isn’t clear, therefore, we can’t ensure a positive outcome.

Challenges faced by Americans in the Italian job market

Despite the numerous opportunities, Americans may face certain challenges when entering the Italian job market. One of the primary barriers is language; while many Italians speak English, proficiency in Italian can be crucial for navigating daily life and professional environments. Cultural differences can also pose challenges, as workplace norms and communication styles in Italy may differ from those in the United States.

Bureaucracy and labor regulations in Italy can be another hurdle. The Italian labor market is known for its complex regulatory framework, and understanding the intricacies of contracts, taxes, and employment laws can be daunting. These challenges underscore the importance of preparation and adaptability for Americans looking to work in Italy.

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.

How io.citizen can assist in obtaining Italian citizenship

Navigating the process of obtaining Italian citizenship can be complex, but specialized consultancy services like io.citizen can provide invaluable assistance. io.citizen offers comprehensive support throughout the entire process, from gathering necessary documents to legal representation in Italy. 

Our expertise ensures that all requirements are met, minimizing the risk of errors and delays.

The company’s services include personalized consultations, assistance with document collection and verification, and guidance through the judicial process for citizenship applications. By leveraging their experience and knowledge, applicants can enjoy a smoother and more efficient journey towards obtaining Italian citizenship.

or instance, João Silva achieved the highly sought-after Italian citizenship with io.citizen’s assistance. Today, João proudly considers himself Italian.

For Americans, working in Italy presents a unique opportunity to combine professional growth with personal enrichment. The benefits of Italian citizenship, including visa-free travel and the right to work within the EU, provide a significant competitive edge in the job market. 

While challenges such as language barriers and bureaucratic complexities exist, they can be mitigated with proper preparation and support.

B1 Test: A detailed overview of the italian language test

By exploring all legal options and seeking professional guidance, Americans can make informed decisions and successfully navigate the process of becoming Italian citizens. Ultimately, this opens doors to a wealth of job opportunities and a fulfilling life in one of the world’s most beautiful and culturally rich countries.

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

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