From ancestry to application: how to claim Italian citizenship

Christmas in Italy: a celebration of faith, family, and culture

Christmas in Italy, or Natale, is a cultural and religious experience that stretches across regions, generations, and centuries. From the solemnity of sacred traditions to the warmth of family gatherings and the indulgence of festive foods, Italian Christmas is a season of joy, reflection, and community.

09/05/2025

Italian Constitutional Court upholds citizenship by descent amid legal challenges

The Italian Constitutional Court reaffirmed the legitimacy of citizenship by descent (jus sanguinis) for individuals born outside Italy. The ruling, issued under Sentence No. 142/2025, rejected constitutional challenges raised by four ordinary courts—Rome, Milan, Florence, and Bologna—against the long-standing legal framework that allows descendants of Italian nationals to claim citizenship regardless of generational distance or territorial ties.

09/03/2025

The best cities to live in Italy in 2025

Italy conjures images of sun-drenched piazzas, Renaissance art, and plates of pasta that seem to defy culinary logic. But for those considering moving to the country—not just a vacation trip—the question shifts from “Where’s the most beautiful?” to “Where can I actually live well?”.

09/01/2025

Between two worlds: Exploring the Italian and American cultural differences

Culture is more than language, food, or fashion—it’s a way of life, a lens through which people interpret the world and define themselves. For Italian-Americans, navigating the space between Italian heritage and American identity often brings both pride and tension.

08/28/2025

Italy’s 2026–2028 work visa decree: promise, pitfalls, and policy shifts

With the intention of addressing Italy’s labor shortages, the Council of Ministers, under the leadership of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has approved a new decree on labor migration and work visas. Scheduled for implementation across the 2026–2028 period, the decree authorizes 497,550 legal entries for non-European Union workers with permanent or seasonal contracts—an increase from the previous allocation of 450,000 permits during the 2023–2025 cycle.

07/23/2025

How Italy’s supreme court challenges government authority

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).

07/21/2025

Claiming Italian citizenship is a commitment to a new identity, a connection to personal history, and preparing yourself for new opportunities. This journey is not just about acquiring a legal status but also about embracing a heritage that has shaped your family’s journey through time. It is an opportunity to honor the sacrifices and dreams of your ancestors, making their legacy a living part of your present and future.

There are several paths on how to claim Italian citizenship, each with its own particularities and requirements. Whether you are pursuing citizenship by descent, marriage, or residency, understanding the nuances of each route is crucial. Each path offers a unique way to connect with your Italian heritage and opens doors to new opportunities.

The main routes on how to claim Italian citizenship

Citizenship by Descent (Jure Sanguinis): This path is available to those with an Italian parent or grandparent born in Italy. Alternatively, eligibility may apply if one’s Italian parent—not grandparent—resided continuously in Italy for at least two years. In both cases, it is essential that the Italian ancestor held exclusive Italian citizenship at the time of their death.
Citizenship by marriage: Being married to an Italian citizen also makes you eligible for Italian citizenship. This route has specific requirements, such as the B1 Italian language test and being married for a certain period before applying. It is a path that not only strengthens your bond with your spouse but also integrates you into the Italian community, allowing you to fully embrace the culture and traditions of Italy.
Citizenship by residency: This path involves residing in Italy for a specified period. The duration of residence and the conditions that must be met to qualify can vary. This route offers a way to immerse yourself in Italian life, experiencing the culture, language, and traditions firsthand. It is a journey that requires commitment and patience but ultimately leads to a deeper connection with Italy.

Necessary documents and evidence

Collecting, authenticating, and translating the necessary documents involves meticulous research and preparation. This process includes gathering birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other relevant records, ensuring they are properly certified and authenticated with an apostille. Imagine examining numerous records until finding the right one; it’s crucial to know what you are doing in this task to avoid wasting time. This step is essential in proving your eligibility for citizenship and requires careful attention to detail.

Common obstacles such as lost records or discrepancies in documents can make the process challenging. However, these barriers are not insurmountable. Working with experienced professionals can help you navigate these challenges, ensuring that all necessary documents are in order and that any issues are resolved efficiently.

When and how to seek italian citizenship assistance

Lawyers, consultants, and citizenship assistance companies can simplify the process of obtaining Italian citizenship. These professionals have the expertise to handle complex cases and provide additional support in terms of document translation and authentication. Their assistance can make the journey smoother and more efficient, helping you avoid common mistakes and ensuring that every step is completed correctly.

Using professional services offers several benefits, including expediting the process, avoiding errors, and ensuring that all legal requirements are met. Professionals can provide valuable guidance and support, making the journey to citizenship less daunting and more manageable.

Italian citizenship assistance: the importance of professional services.

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Specific challenges and how to overcome them

As of 2025, with the enactment of Law No. 74/2025, Italian consulates and municipalities have ceased accepting applications for citizenship by descent. All administrative procedures are set to be centralized under a newly established governmental body; however, its structure, operational framework, and specific guidelines are still pending.

As a result, all existing consular and communal queues were formally dissolved, leaving judicial proceedings as the only available pathway to obtaining Italian citizenship.

Additionally, certain cases, such as those of Italian female ancestry who fall under the 1948 rule, require a deeper understanding of the legal framework and may involve applying through the courts. Researching these special scenarios and focusing on the solutions can provide valuable insights and encouragement to those facing challenges.

With perseverance, every obstacle can be overcome with the right approach.

From planning to realization

Turning knowledge into action is the final step in the journey to Italian citizenship. Each stage of the process is a building block for a new and enriching future. By embracing this journey, you are not only honoring your past but also creating new opportunities for yourself and future generations.

For those ready to embark on this journey, contacting experts who can guide you through the process is a crucial step. If you need assistance to navigate the Italian citizenship process, count on io.citizen. Our team of experts is ready to make your dream of Italian citizenship come true. Contact us today!

October 10, 2024
2:30 pm