The cost of living in Italy: Photo of a street market in Naples
taly has long captivated the imagination of travelers and dreamers alike. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the bustling streets of Milan, it offers a rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and history. But beyond its postcard-perfect charm, Italy is increasingly becoming a practical destination for expatriates and dual citizens.
Christmas in Italy: Photo of the holiday decorations on Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, in Milan
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.
Italian Constitutional Court upholds citizenship by descent: Photo of the city of Florence
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.
The best cities to live in Italy in 2025: Photo of the city of Milan
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?”.
Exploring the Italian and American cultural differences: Photo of a classical Italian car in a mountain road
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.
Italy’s 2026–2028 work visa decree: Photo of people working on markets in Rome
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.
Does italy allow dual citizenship: image with different countries flags being analysed
Summary

Unlike some other countries that restrict citizens to holding only one citizenship, Italy takes a more flexible stance. Article 11 of the Italian Law of February 5th, 1992, No. 91, outlines the rules regarding dual citizenship:

“The citizen who owns, obtains, or re-obtains a foreign citizenship retains the Italian one, but he or she can renounce it if residing or establishing residency abroad.”

Key Points

Retaining Italian Citizenship:

If you acquire another citizenship (foreign citizenship), you can still keep your Italian citizenship intact. Italy recognizes dual citizenship, allowing individuals to hold both their original citizenship and Italian citizenship simultaneously.

No Mandatory Renunciation:

Applicants seeking Italian citizenship do not need to give up their original citizenship during the process. This flexibility is especially beneficial for those who want to maintain strong ties to both countries.

Voluntary Renunciation:

While not mandatory, some Italians may choose to formally renounce their citizenship rights for personal reasons or specific circumstances.

Dual Citizens and A.I.R.E.:

Dual citizens who are enrolled in the Registry of Italians living abroad (AIRE) have the option to renounce their Italian citizenship. To do so, they submit a formal declaration to the Italian Consulate.

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.

The benefits of italian citizenship

Dual citizenship offers numerous practical benefits to individuals, especially those with ties to Italy and another country:

Ease of Travel:

Dual citizens can travel between Italy and their other country of citizenship without needing visas or facing immigration restrictions. This facilitates easier tourism, business trips, and family visits.

Social Benefits:

Dual citizens may access social services and benefits in both countries, including healthcare, education, and social security systems.

Work and Study Opportunities:

Dual citizenship eliminates work permit requirements in both countries, opening up employment and educational opportunities without the need for visas or residence permits.

Cultural Connection:

Holding dual citizenship allows individuals to maintain a strong cultural connection to both Italy and their other country, fostering a deeper sense of identity and belonging.

Italian citizenship through the globalized world

Italy’s stance on dual citizenship is relatively open compared to many countries.

While some countries strictly prohibit dual citizenship, Italy takes a more permissive approach. Countries like Germany and Japan often require individuals to renounce their original citizenship upon acquiring another, whereas Italy allows dual citizenship without mandatory renunciation.

Globally, there is a growing trend towards more countries allowing dual citizenship as globalization increases. This trend reflects a recognition of individuals’ diverse national and cultural identities.

Italy’s flexible policy on dual citizenship aligns with broader global trends towards interconnectedness and mobility. It acknowledges the benefits of cultural exchange and international cooperation in today’s interconnected world.

Important: To be able to apply for Italian citizenship by descent, an individual must have 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.

Conclusion

Italy’s approach to dual citizenship reflects its openness and recognition of the globalized world. Whether you’re an Italian descendant seeking to reclaim your heritage or an individual with strong ties to Italy, the possibility of dual citizenship provides valuable opportunities.

For personalized advice or assistance, consult your nearest Italian consulate or legal professionals, such as io.citizen. Our team of experts is ready to bring to you your long awaited Italian dual citizenship. Contact us today!

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

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