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.
Lawyers for Italian citizenship: Photo of a specialist lawyer
Summary

Navigating the intricate process of obtaining Italian citizenship can be daunting. The involvement of specialist lawyers is crucial in ensuring a smooth and successful application.

Lawyers play an essential role in guiding applicants through the various legal requirements, helping them gather necessary documentation, and representing them in any legal proceedings.Their expertise ensures that the process is handled efficiently and in compliance with Italian law.

Italian citizenship laws are known for their complexity, and applicants often find themselves overwhelmed by the legal jargon and numerous requirements. Specialist lawyers are well-versed in these laws, providing the necessary guidance to help applicants understand and navigate the legal landscape.

Additionally, in certain cases, hiring a lawyer is essential. For example, descendants of a female Italian ancestor who gave birth to the next in line before 1948 are not eligible for Italian citizenship through the administrative route.

In such instances, applicants must seek legal assistance to apply through the courts.

Criteria for selecting the best lawyers for Italian citizenship

Choosing the right lawyer is a critical step in the process of obtaining Italian citizenship. Here are some key criteria to consider:

  • Look for lawyers who have extensive experience handling Italian citizenship cases similar to yours. A proven track record of successful cases indicates their expertise and reliability.
     
  • Italian citizenship laws can change over time, and it is essential to choose a lawyer who stays informed about these changes. An up-to-date understanding of the latest legal developments ensures that your case is handled with the most current information.
     
  • Communication is vital in the legal process, especially when dealing with international clients. Choose a lawyer who can communicate clearly and effectively, explaining complex legal terms and procedures in a way that is easy to understand.
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.

Differences between consular and judicial processes

When applying for Italian citizenship, applicants can choose between administrative and judicial processes. Both methods have their own timelines, costs, and bureaucratic requirements. Here’s a comparison of the two:

  • Administrative process: The administrative process most often involves submitting the application to the Italian consulate in your country of residence. This method is typically less costly but can be time-consuming due to the high volume of applications processed by consulates. The waiting time for an appointment can be long, and the bureaucratic requirements can be overwhelming.
     
  • Judicial process: The judicial process involves filing a lawsuit in an Italian court to obtain citizenship. This method is generally faster than the consular process, but it can be more expensive due to legal fees. However, the advantages of the judicial process include a more streamlined procedure and the ability to bypass the long waiting times associated with the consular process.
     

With the assistance of a specialist lawyer, the judicial process can be navigated more efficiently, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and increasing the chances of a successful outcome.

Exclusive benefits of hiring a comprehensive consultancy like io.citizen

Hiring a comprehensive consultancy like io.citizen offers numerous benefits for applicants seeking Italian citizenship. For instance, consultancies like io.citizen provide a personalized approach, tailoring their services to meet the specific needs of each client. They can also handle the process of collecting documents and navigate legal procedures on your behalf, making the journey to Italian citizenship less stressful.

U.S. residents seeking Italian citizenship can benefit significantly from Italian legal assistance. Here are some specific considerations and common challenges faced by American citizens:

  • American citizens may face unique challenges when applying for Italian citizenship, such as differences in legal systems and documentation requirements. Italian legal assistance can help bridge these gaps, ensuring that all necessary documents are in order and the application meets the requirements of both U.S. and Italian authorities.
     
  • U.S. residents often encounter challenges such as obtaining vital records, translating documents, and understanding the intricacies of Italian citizenship laws. Italian legal assistance can provide valuable support in addressing these challenges, offering expert guidance and representation throughout the process.
     

By seeking the assistance of specialist lawyers and consultancies, U.S. residents can navigate the complexities of the Italian citizenship process more effectively, ensuring a higher chance of success and a smoother experience overall.

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

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