Italian citizenship

European citizenship is increasingly appealing to Americans seeking enhanced mobility, access to the European Union’s (EU) opportunities, and potential tax benefits. With its privileges, such as the freedom to live and work across EU member states, European citizenship offers a gateway to global opportunities.

Rooted in the principle of jus sanguinis (citizenship through descent), the laws surrounding Italian citizenship allowed countless individuals across the globe to maintain a connection to Italy, even generations after their ancestors emigrated.

The Decree-Law No. 36/2025, published on March 28, 2025, introduces significant changes to Italian citizenship jus sanguinis (citizenship by descent). Previously, individuals could claim citizenship regardless of the number of generations separating them from their Italian ancestor, provided they could trace an unbroken lineage to an Italian citizen.

Historically, jus sanguinis (citizenship by descent) allowed individuals to claim citizenship based on ancestry, even if they were separated by several generations from their Italian-born relatives. However, recent legislative changes have significantly tightened citizenship eligibility.

In recent years, more foreigners have sought to purchase property in Italy, either as a vacation retreat or as part of their plan to relocate. While financing options are available for non-residents, securing a loan or mortgage in Italy as a foreigner comes with bureaucratic challenges and strict requirements.

Giorgia Meloni has emerged as one of the most prominent figures in contemporary Italian politics, shaping the nation’s political landscape with her leadership and ideological stance. As the leader of the Brothers of Italy (Fratelli d’Italia) party since 2014, she is the first woman to serve as Italy’s Prime Minister.