Italy is a dream destination for many, and understanding the intricacies of staying longer is crucial for US citizens. The concept of a temporary stay is governed by the limitations of tourist visas and the infamous 90-day rule. If you want to live in Italy or stay an extended period of time read the post!
For US citizens, Italy is part of the Schengen Area, which allows them to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without needing a visa. This rule is perfect for short vacations, but it poses challenges for those who wish to experience a more extended stay in the country.
If you plan to stay in Italy for longer than 90 days, you’ll need to explore various visa options to ensure your stay remains legal and hassle-free.
Visas available for extended stays
For those wishing to stay in Italy beyond the 90-day limit, several visa options are available. Common visas include student visas, work visas, and family reunification visas, each with specific requirements.
Student visas are for individuals enrolled in Italian educational institutions and require proof of enrollment and financial means. Work visas need a job offer from an Italian employer and an employment contract.
Family reunification visas are for those with close family members legally residing in Italy and require proof of the relationship and the family member’s residence status. These visas offer legal pathways to extend your stay in Italy.
Italian Citizenship as a permanent solution
For US citizens with Italian ancestry or married to an Italian citizen, obtaining Italian citizenship is a permanent solution that allows you to reside in Italy without any restrictions.
Italy’s citizenship laws follow the principle of jus sanguinis, meaning citizenship is inherited through the bloodline. Children and grandchildren of Italian nationals born in Italy are eligible to apply.
Additionally, individuals may qualify if their Italian parent—not grandparent—legally resided in Italy for at least two consecutive years, even if the parent was not born there. Importantly, the Italian ancestor must have held exclusive Italian citizenship at the time of their death for the right to be passed on.
Another viable pathway is through marriage. If you are an US citizen married to an Italian citizen, you may apply for citizenship after a certain period of legal marriage (typically two years if residing in Italy, or three years if residing abroad). Both these routes provide a definitive way to secure your right to live in Italy permanently.
If you’re considering applying for Italian citizenship by descent (jus sanguinis), the judicial process in Italy is currently the only available route, following the dissolution of consular and municipal application queues.
All administrative procedures are expected to be centralized under a newly established government body, although its structure and operational procedures have yet to be defined
Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.
Benefits of Italian citizenship
Italian citizenship offers extensive benefits beyond residency, such as access to the European market, allowing you to live, work, and start businesses anywhere in the EU without additional visas.
Citizens enjoy reduced tuition fees for higher education within Italy and the EU, as well as access to Italy’s public healthcare system and comprehensive medical support across the EU. Tax exemptions and economic incentives are available for returning Italian citizens, encouraging their reintegration into the economy.
Holding an Italian passport also enables full participation in cultural events, elections, and civic life, plus visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries worldwide, simplifying travel plans.
Consular Process versus Judicial Process
As of 2025, the judicial route has become the sole pathway to obtaining Italian citizenship. Following the enactment of Law No. 74 on May 23, 2025, all application queues at consulates and communes were dissolved. Moving forward, administrative procedures are expected to be centralized under a newly established governmental body, though its formation and operational details are still pending.
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.
Why choose comprehensive assistance?
Given the complexities of both consular and judicial processes, seeking comprehensive assistance from specialized companies can be very beneficial. Experts in Italian citizenship offer tailored guidance to help applicants meet specific requirements and ensure all documentation is correctly prepared and submitted.
One of such companies is io.citizen. We specialize in Italian citizenship applications. Our team of experienced legal professionals provides personalized support, guiding clients through each step of the process confidently ensuring a smoother, more legally secure path to citizenship.
Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.
Apply for Italian citizenship today!
Holding an Italian passport significantly enhances international mobility, especially within the European Union. Italian citizens can travel freely across EU member states without additional visa requirements, making it easier to explore, reside, and work in different countries.
This mobility offers not only professional and educational benefits but also a richer cultural experience. However, proper legal planning is essential before making a permanent move to Italy or any other EU country.
Understanding visa requirements, tax obligations, and legal compliance can prevent future legal issues and ensure a smooth transition.
Additionally, comprehensive assistance from experts like io.citizen can provide valuable support, ensuring all legal aspects are covered and making your journey to Italian citizenship a seamless process.
