Italian citizenship by descent is based on the principle of jus sanguinis, or the “right of blood.” This means that citizenship is passed down through the bloodline, rather than by place of birth (jus soli).
As of 2025, with the enactment of Law 72/2025, this means that children and grandchildren of Italian citizens born in Italy are eligible for Italian citizenship. Additionally, the Italian relative must have held exclusive Italian citizenship at the time of their death.
Identifying necessary documents for proof
To apply for Italian citizenship by descent, gathering and verifying the required documentation is crucial. The primary documents required include birth certificates, marriage certificates, and death certificates of your Italian ancestors.
In addition to these primary documents, you may need other supporting documents such as divorce and non-naturalization certificates, and other legal records that can help establish the chain of Italian descent. Ensuring accuracy and authenticity in these documents is paramount to a successful citizenship application.
Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.
Special cases: Maternal lineage and other exceptions
The transmission of Italian citizenship through maternal lineage has evolved over the years. Specifically, the “1948 rule” allows Italian women to transmit citizenship to their children but only if their children were born after January 1, 1948. This rule reflects the patriarchal norms of early Italian laws.
In 1983, the Italian Constitutional Court ruled that preventing women from transmitting citizenship was unconstitutional. Although this ruling did not retroactively apply to those born before 1948, it did challenge the existing norms.
In 2009, the High Court of Rome made a groundbreaking decision by granting Italian citizenship to a descendant of an Italian woman born before 1948. This decision provided a legal precedent for others in similar situations and established the judicial process as a viable route for citizenship claims based on maternal lineage.
Individuals affected by the pre-1948 restrictions must pursue their cases through the Italian legal system, even after the creation of the newly formed governmental body, specifically filing lawsuits to establish their right to citizenship.
Choosing between consular, judicial, or administrative routes
When applying for Italian citizenship by descent, applicants can choose between consular, judicial, or administrative routes. As of 2025, with the enactment of Law No. 74/2025, 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.
Applicants who intend to challenge the new requirements for Italian citizenship imposed by Law 74/2025 are strongly advised to retain documentation—such as a receipt or proof of their original place in line at a consulate—as part of their legal strategy.
It is important to emphasize that the outcome of these legal challenges remains uncertain, as Italian courts continue to evaluate the constitutionality and retroactive implications of the law.
Importance of specialized assistance in the initial process
Applying for Italian citizenship by descent can be challenging, particularly for first-time applicants. Engaging specialists in Italian citizenship law can greatly streamline the process and improve your chances of success.
Specialized consultants and legal professionals can provide comprehensive support from the initial stages of gathering documents to filing applications and representing clients in court.
Companies like io.citizen have the experience and knowledge to handle the intricacies of the Italian citizenship application process, ensuring that all required documents are accurately prepared and submitted.
Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.
For clients residing in the USA or English-speaking regions, io.citizen provides bilingual assistance in Portuguese, English, Spanish, and, of course, Italian, ensuring clear communication and understanding. This multilingual support is invaluable for applicants who may not be fluent in Italian and need guidance in their preferred language.
By leveraging the expertise of professionals, applicants can navigate the process more efficiently, avoiding legal obstacles and ensuring a smoother path to obtaining Italian citizenship. Specialized services not only provide peace of mind but also increase the chances of success in claiming the right to Italian nationality.
Apply for Italian citizenship today!
Obtaining Italian citizenship by descent is a valuable opportunity for individuals with Italian heritage to connect with their roots and enjoy the benefits of Italian nationality. Understanding the principles of jus sanguinis, the necessary documentation, and the available legal routes is essential for a successful application.
Whether through straightforward documentation or addressing historical legal barriers, the journey to Italian citizenship by descent is a meaningful and rewarding endeavor. With the right support and expertise, individuals and families can embrace their Italian heritage and enjoy the full benefits of Italian nationality.
