The new Italian citizenship decree: Photo of io.citizen's office
The Italian Prime Minister has recently issued a decree that significantly alters the rules governing Italian citizenship. Until March 28, 2025, any person with an Italian ancestor—no matter how distant—could claim Italian citizenship. Under the new Italian citizenship decree, only those whose parents or grandparents were born in Italy retain this right.
The cost of living in Italy: Photo of a street market in the comune of Latina, on the Lazio region
Italy has long been an appealing destination for expatriates, students, and descendants seeking to reconnect with their roots. From its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes to its excellent public services and quality of life, it offers endless opportunities for those who make the move.
Italian citizenship next steps: Photo of an Italian flag near the shores of Lake Como (Lago di Como)
Acquiring Italian citizenship is a significant milestone for many individuals, marking a connection to their heritage and providing access to numerous benefits across Italy and the European Union. From immediate actions to long-term planning, this guide explores the necessary steps for Italian citizens to navigate their new status.
Differences between the administrative and judicial process for citizenship: Photo of a street market in Florence
Italian citizenship, regulated by Law 91/1992, is based on the jus sanguinis (right of blood) principle, meaning Italian citizens can pass their citizenship to descendants. The process of obtaining Italian citizenship can be complex, and choosing the right route depends on individual circumstances.
The demand and risks of Italian citizenship: Photo of an Italian banner hanging from a building in Milan
In recent years, the desire for Italian dual citizenship among Americans has seen a sharp rise. While this trend reflects a pursuit for better opportunities, it has also uncovered issues within the unregulated market that supports such endeavors.
transmit-italian-citizenship
Italian citizenship, regulated by Law 91/1992, is based on the jus sanguinis (right of blood) principle, meaning Italian Americans can pass their citizenship to descendants. Applying for Italian citizenship enables families to preserve their Italian lineage and enjoy the numerous benefits of European citizenship.
Learn how to obtain birth certificates in New York, understand when a court order is needed, and understand the judicial processes for Italian citizenship.
Summary

Getting a birth certificate in New York is an essential step for multiple legal processes, including pursuing Italian citizenship. Birth certificates serve as essential documents to verify one’s identity, place of birth, and parental information.

For those seeking Italian citizenship through ancestry, a certified copy of the birth certificate is often required to prove lineage. This document is a cornerstone in the application process, ensuring that all relevant details are accurately documented.

The standard process to obtain a birth certificate in New York involves a straightforward application. Individuals can request a copy from the New York City Health Department for births that occurred within the five boroughs of New York City.

For births outside the city but within New York State, the New York State Department of Health handles the requests. Typically, applicants need to provide basic personal information, such as the full name of the person on the birth certificate, date and place of birth, parents’ names, and valid identification. There may be a fee associated with obtaining the certified copy, and the processing time can vary.

Navigating the application for Italian dual citizenship process

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.

When a court order is required

In some cases, obtaining a birth certificate in New York may require a court order. Specifically, an individual can only obtain a birth certificate without a court order if their name appears on the certificate, either as a child or a parent. This means that spouses, children, and other relatives must request access to the court.

Understanding the difference between a simple request and one that requires legal intervention. Simple requests generally involve straightforward applications for publicly accessible documents, while requests requiring a court order involve additional legal steps and permissions.

Obtaining court orders in New York

When a court order is required to obtain a birth certificate in New York City, the process involves specific steps that must be followed, including the involvement of an attorney. An attorney can request a birth certificate on behalf of the registrant, the registrant’s mother, or the registrant’s father/parent (if named on the certificate).

The attorney must submit the Attorney Protocol for NYC Birth Certificates form, sign and notarize the application, include the required fee, provide copies of their current photo identification, and proof of attorney licensure. The request must be labeled “Attn: Attorney Protocol Request” on the addressed envelope.

To request a birth certificate through a court in New York City, you must hire a lawyer who will follow the outlined procedure.

Challenges in the Italian consular process with U.S. documents

Using U.S. documents in the Italian consular process can present several challenges. The bureaucratic requirements and differences in legal systems between the U.S. and Italy can complicate the process. One common issue is the need for documents to be authenticated with an apostille, which verifies that a document issued in one country is recognized as valid in another.

Additionally, the processing times for consular services can be lengthy, adding delays to the citizenship application process. The costs associated with obtaining and authenticating documents can also be significant, further complicating the process. Applicants may face long wait times for appointments at Italian consulates, which can be frustrating and jeopardize progress.

List of Italians consulates.

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.

Alternatives to the consular process: Italian citizenship via judicial means

Given the challenges associated with the consular process, pursuing Italian citizenship via judicial means can be a viable alternative. This method often proves to be more efficient and less cumbersome than the traditional consular route. The judicial process involves presenting the case directly to an Italian court, bypassing the bureaucratic hurdles typically encountered at consulates.

Italian Citizenship: Applying in the U.S. vs. Italy

One of the key advantages of the judicial process is the ability to expedite the application. Courts can often process requests more quickly than consulates, reducing the overall time required to obtain citizenship. Additionally, the judicial route can be more straightforward, as it eliminates the need for multiple layers of documentation and verification.

The importance of specialized assistance in pursuing Italian citizenship

Specialized consultancy services such as io.citizen offer invaluable assistance. Io.citizen provides comprehensive support throughout the entire process, including gathering and authenticating documents, filing court petitions, and representing clients in court.

Italian citizenship assistance: The Importance of Professional Services

The expertise of io.citizen’s team ensures that all legal requirements are met, and potential issues are addressed proactively. By leveraging their knowledge of ‘both U.S. and Italian legal systems, io.citizen can streamline the citizenship application process, minimizing delays and reducing the risk of errors. 

This professional guidance allows applicants to focus on their goal of obtaining Italian citizenship without the stress and uncertainty typically associated with the process.

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

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