How to get an Italian passport?

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Italian Constitutional Court upholds citizenship by descent amid legal challenges

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Italy, with its rich cultural heritage and enchanting landscapes, beckons travelers and dreamers alike. For those seeking to embrace Italian identity, the journey often begins with the desire for an Italian passport—a gateway to countless opportunities within Europe and beyond.

However, it’s essential to recognize that obtaining an Italian passport is not the starting point; rather, it’s a result of the Italian citizenship process. In this guide, we’ll unravel the intricacies of passport issuance, clarifying the prerequisites, procedures, and necessary documents.

Important: As of 2025, with the enactment of Law No. 74/2025, to be eligible for Italian dual citizenship, 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.

Additionally, 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.

Obtaining your Italian passport

You must fulfill certain requirements in order to be able to obtain your Italian passport. Here are the details you need to know:

In-Person Application: Passport applications cannot be submitted by mail. You must visit the Consulate in person, with a scheduled appointment, to initiate the process.

Italian Citizenship: To be eligible for an Italian passport, you must already be an Italian citizen. If you’re not yet a citizen, explore the path to Italian citizenship through naturalization or other means.

AIRE Registration: If you reside abroad, ensure you are registered in the AIRE (Anagrafe Italiani Residenti all’Estero) with an updated residential address.

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Required documents:

Application Form: Complete the form for applicants over 18 years of age.

Passport Photos: Provide two recent, identical passport photos (size 3.5 x 4.0 cm, white background, neutral expression).

Previous Italian Passport: Bring your previous Italian passport (unless it’s your first passport or lost/stolen).

Additional documents:

For Italian citizens only: Copy of United States Permanent Resident Card or entry visa (for Bermuda residents, specific documents apply).

For dual citizens born in Italy: Copy of U.S. passport and Certificate of Naturalization.

For Bermuda residents: Copy of British Overseas Territories Citizens passport and Certificate of Naturalization.

Mailing Your New Passport: Prepare a prepaid Priority Mail envelope with a tracking number (available in the U.S. Post Offices) for passport delivery. The Consulate is not responsible for postal delays.

Cost: The passport fee is $125.00.

Your Italian passport adventure awaits

As you embark on your quest for Italian citizenship, remember that the issuance of an Italian passport represents the final chapter—a testament to your connection with this remarkable country. From completing forms to gathering photographs and meeting eligibility criteria, each step brings you closer to the coveted document. So, consult your nearest consulate, prepare your essentials, and embrace the journey. Soon, you’ll hold in your hands not just a passport, but a piece of Italy’s storied past and promising future.

Expert assistance

The Italian citizenship process can be challenging to face on your own. In order to ensure a secure journey, you should consider hiring expert assistance, such as io.citizen. Io.citizen’s team specializes in making your dream of Italian citizenship come true. Contact us today!

The quote is quick, free, and without any commitment. We'll get back to you with more details within 24 hours.

August 8, 2024
5:32 am