Why did the Renaissance began in Italy: Photo of the interior of St.Peter's Basilica.
Before the flourishing of the Renaissance, Italy was a fragmented mosaic of city-states, each with its own government, economy, and cultural identity. The collapse of centralized imperial authority after the fall of the Western Roman Empire left the peninsula divided, paving the way for regional powers like Florence, Venice, Milan, and Naples to rise.
Buying property in Italy: photo of the fields and farm houses in the province of Pavia, near Milan
Italy has long captivated foreign buyers with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and enviable lifestyle. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-drenched coasts of Sicily, the country offers a wide range of properties that appeal to retirees, investors, and lifestyle seekers alike.
Photo of Ponte Vecchio, showing a lot of tourists visiting
The Ponte Vecchio, meaning “Old Bridge” in Italian, is one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks and a living testament to the city’s medieval heritage. Spanning the Arno River, it is the oldest bridge in Florence, originally constructed in 1218. The current structure was rebuilt in 1345 after a devastating flood destroyed its predecessor.
Italian culinary traditions: Photo of an Italian chef preparing a dish
In Italy, food is a way of life. From bustling city markets to quiet village kitchens, the act of preparing and sharing a meal is deeply woven into the fabric of Italian culture. It reflects not only regional identity and historical legacy but also the social values that bind families and communities together.
The Italian language: Photo of a woman in florence writing notes in a park
The Italian language has undergone a long and intricate evolution, beginning with the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century. During the height of Roman rule, Latin was the lingua franca—the common language imposed across the vast territories of the Empire while the spoken language of the general population evolved into various vernaculars
What is Jus Soli and how it works in different countries: Photo of the Italian flag in Rome
The concept of jus soli, Latin for “right of the soil,” refers to the legal principle that grants citizenship to individuals born within a country’s territory, regardless of their parents’ nationality. Jus soli reflects a nation’s commitment to inclusivity and territorial sovereignty. It ensures that individuals born on national soil are recognized as citizens from birth, often with full access to rights and protections.
Italian citizenship by marriage processing time: Photo of couples walking around the historical monuments in the Italian comune of Bobbio
Summary

Italian citizenship by marriage is a well-recognized pathway for foreign spouses to obtain nationality, fostering stronger familial ties and unlocking various benefits.

This process is governed by specific legal requirements and timelines, which can vary depending on the applicant’s location and the chosen route for citizenship. Understanding these timelines and navigating the application process effectively are essential to ensuring a smooth experience.

Current processing times for 2024/2025

Processing times for Italian citizenship by marriage depend largely on whether the application is submitted through consular or judicial procedures. Based on Law Degree Oct. 4, 2018 n. 113, the Ministry of Interior has up to 48 months to review and finalize applications, though descent-related applications typically adhere to a shorter two-year timeframe.

For citizenship applications handled via consulates, the process can take between 3 to 4 years, as consulates act as intermediaries in transferring initial documents to the Ministry. Judicial processes, on the other hand, offer a faster alternative, with timelines ranging from 1.5 to 2 years.

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Differences between consular processes and common challenges

Consular processes involve submitting applications to the Italian consulate linked to the applicant’s Italian spouse’s AIRE registration (Registry of Italians Residing Abroad). The consulate forwards applications to the Ministry of Interior for review, serving as an intermediary for the first phase of processing. While this approach is widely used, applicants often encounter delays due to high volumes of submissions and lengthy queues at consulates.

The judicial route provides an alternative, bypassing consular involvement and enabling applications to be reviewed directly by the Ministry. Although faster, this option may involve higher costs and require legal expertise.

How to address delays and obstacles

Applicants can take proactive steps to minimize delays and overcome obstacles during the citizenship application process. Accurate documentation and timely submission are vital, as incomplete or invalid documents can lead to setbacks. Regular communication with the consulate or Prefettura handling the application ensures that updates are received and potential issues are resolved promptly.

A formal Diffida can be used to push for quicker processing if the Ministry approaches or exceeds the four-year deadline. While applicants can send this letter themselves, an attorney-drafted Diffida is generally more effective. Professional assistance, whether through legal advisors or citizenship specialists, can help avoid interruptions and streamline the overall process.

Special considerations for applicants

Certain circumstances can impact the citizenship application process. If the marriage is annulled, dissolved, or if the Italian spouse passes away during processing, the application becomes interrupted. This underscores the importance of maintaining an active and valid marital status throughout the process.

Additionally, applicants must keep the consulate or Prefettura informed of any changes in residency or address. Failure to update contact information may result in application delays or rejection due to the consulate’s inability to reach the applicant. Being attentive to these details is essential to avoiding interruptions and ensuring a successful application.

Important: As of 2025, an individual must have an Italian parent or grandparent born in Italy to qualify for Italian citizenship by descent. 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.

Italian citizenship by marriage presents an opportunity for foreign spouses to formalize their nationality and strengthen their connection to Italy. While processing times and requirements can pose challenges, understanding the timelines, preparing thoroughly, and seeking professional guidance can make a significant difference.

Whether navigating consular queues or opting for judicial review, proactive measures ensure that applicants can overcome obstacles and achieve their citizenship goals with confidence.

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

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