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.
Getting married to an italian citizen: Couple overlooking the city of Florence
Summary

Being the land of Romeo & Juliet, Italy is surrounded and grown by love. If you happen to fall in love with an Italian and say YES to a life with them, your life is about to change in many ways.

Legal benefits of being married to an Italian

If you are married to an italian citizen you might be eligible to apply for dual citizenship as long as you accomplish the following requirements:

  • Being married for at least two years while living in Italy.
  • Being married for at least three years, living in any other country.
  • Have no criminal records and present a background check (with 6 months validation).
  • Have enough knowledge of Italian to be approved in a language exam with at least B1 qualification.

Italian Passport

Once you are granted with your Italian citizenship through marriage, you can apply for your passport.

By being Italian, you are entitled to work and travel around all countries and territories member of the European Union. Plus the benefits of entering almost 200 other countries without visa requirements. 

Free benefits that will make you richer

Italian culture is one of a kind, the amazing cities, food and culture is known in the entire world. And being married to an Italian only takes you closer than ever before. 

All the pizza & pasta you can eat

Italians are very proud of their cuisine and can make amazing dishes with just a few ingredients. You will never get tired of the different types of pasta, pizza (among others) they will happily make for you, following family recipes and really old traditions.

Hard work & Passion

Due to their history italians are well known for their hard work and to do everything with passion. These values are contagious. Italians will always do anything to pursue happiness and personal goals, whatever it takes. 

Value of family & friends

We can witness it in movies and TV Shows, the value of family for an Italian is something else. To Italians, family comes first and that is the golden rule.

No one will be more devoted or loyal than an italian. Family meals will take several hours. Surrounded by hundreds of different dishes, family stories will go around the table from their past, to dreams about the future, all being served with immense love and respect.

Not afraid of showing their love

Italians are romantic by nature. It is all about big gestures and to make you feel love. They are not afraid to show proof of love affection in public, hold hands and to tell the entire world they love you. 

With an italian, you will never get bored

Italians love to talk, to tell stories, to laugh, to share. They will always find something new to do, to explain, to try. Make sure you have enough energy as it might be hard sometimes to keep up. 

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

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

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Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

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