Claiming Italian citizenship through great-grandparents is an opportunity to reconnect with your heritage while unlocking the privileges of Italian citizenship. This process, based on the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood), formerly allowed descendants of Italian ancestors to claim citizenship through their lineage.
For many, this is not just a bureaucratic journey but also a meaningful way to honor their roots and provide significant benefits for their families, such as freedom to live, work, and travel in Europe. However, applying for Italian citizenship involves navigating a complex process that requires meticulous preparation.
Can you still obtain Italian citizenship through a great-grandparent?
Claiming Italian citizenship through great-grandparents is limited to the judicial route, Following the approval of Decree 36/2025, and its confirmation with Law No. 74 on May 23, 2025.
Italian citizenship is founded on the principle of jus sanguinis—the “right of blood”—which grants citizenship through lineage. As of 2025, eligibility is limited to individuals with at least one Italian parent or grandparent born in Italy. Applicants may also qualify if one of their parents—though not their grandparents—resided in Italy continuously for at least two years. In all cases, it must be proven that the Italian ancestor held exclusive Italian citizenship at the time of their death.
These changes were introduced by Decree-Law 36/2025 and later ratified by Law No. 74 of May 23, 2025. According to legal experts, certain provisions may conflict with constitutional principles. Notably, the law retroactively revokes citizenship rights from individuals who were previously considered citizens by descent. In Italian legal tradition, citizenship is not acquired but rather recognized, meaning those with verified Italian ancestry are already citizens in the eyes of the law.
As a result, individuals who have lost eligibility under the new rules may pursue judicial remedies to challenge the legislation. This is particularly relevant since, as of June 2025, the judicial route is the only available path to obtain Italian citizenship, following the dissolution of the consular queues. While a centralized governmental authority in Italy is expected to oversee administrative applications, its structure and procedures have yet to be finalized
If you choose to apply for Italian citizenship through the judicial route, all supporting documents must be authenticated with an apostille and officially translated into Italian. It’s also essential to present proof of your original place in the consular queue, as this may strengthen your case in court.
Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.
The 1948 rule: When you need a court case
The 1948 Rule for Italian citizenship through great-grandparents applies to cases where citizenship was interrupted due to Italy’s ancient laws. If your closest Italian ancestor was a woman who gave birth to the next descendant before January 1, 1948, the descendant would not inherit Italian citizenship, thereby affecting your eligibility.
For example: If your grandmother was Italian and had children before 1948, and the male line was not involved, you will need to file a court petition in Italy.
In 1983, the Consiglio di Stato (Council of State) granted women equal rights to transmit Italian citizenship, enabling individuals born to Italian women after 1948 to inherit this right. Later, in 2009, the Italian Court of Cassation expanded these rights, allowing individuals born before 1948 to claim citizenship through maternal lines—provided they pursue this through the judicial system.
To be eligible for Italian citizenship through maternal lineage, you must provide documentation proving the maternal line of descent.
Genealogical research: Tracing your Italian roots
Tracing your Italian roots is an exciting but challenging part of the process. To claim Italian citizenship through great-grandparents, you’ll need to reconstruct your family tree to confirm your lineage. Here’s how to get started:
- Build your family tree: Start with the known generations of your family and work backward to identify your great-grandparents.
- Speak to relatives: Reach out to family members, particularly older relatives, for stories, details, and even hidden documents that could provide valuable insights into your ancestry.
- Search archives and specialized websites: Many online databases offer access to civil registries, immigration records, and church documents. For example, the U.S. National Archives offers an extensive collection of online materials that can greatly assist with genealogical research.
- Hire a specialist: If the research becomes overwhelming, consider seeking professional genealogical assistance.
This groundwork not only strengthens your application but can also uncover fascinating stories about your heritage.
Step-by-step guide: “I am a descendant—now what?”
Follow these detailed steps to pursue your Italian citizenship by descent from great-grandparents:
- Trace your family tree: Confirm your lineage by identifying your Italian ancestor (e.g., great-grandparent) and outlining the familial connection.
- Gather documentation: Collect birth, marriage, and death certificates for yourself, your ancestors, and their spouses. You will also need naturalization certificates or certificates of non-naturalization. Ensure all documents are authenticated with an apostille and translated into Italian.
- Apply through the courts: if you are claiming Italian citizenship through a great-grandparent, the only available path as of 2025 is the judicial route. Administrative channels no longer accept such claims, making court proceedings your sole option for recognition.
- Wait for approval: Timelines vary based on the chosen process. Stay informed and patient while your application is under review.
- Celebrate and register: Once your citizenship is granted, register with AIRE (Registry of Italians Living Abroad) to formalize your status.
It is important to note that the possible outcome of judicial proceedings challenging the constitutionality of recent legal changes remains uncertain.
Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.
Average time and cost for judicial cases
Here’s what to expect:
- Timeframe: On average, judicial cases take 1 to 3 years, though this depends on case complexity and court availability.
- Costs: Expenses typically range from €4,000 to €8,000 and include legal fees, court fees, and document preparation costs.
Checklist of necessary documents
To claim Italian citizenship, ensure you have the following documents:
- Birth certificates (applicant and all ancestors);
- Marriage certificates (applicant and ancestors);
- Death certificates (if applicable);
- Naturalization records or proof of non-naturalization of Italian ancestors;
- Apostilles for all certificates;
- Sworn translations of all documents into Italian.
- Receipt of your original consular appointment.
Common issues when seeking Italian citizenship
While the process can be rewarding, several common challenges may arise:
- Name changes or spelling errors: Variations in names across documents can lead to delays or rejections. Make sure to rectify any inconsistency.
- Inconsistent dates: Mismatched dates in records need to be clarified before submission.
- Missing records: Migration or poor record-keeping may result in gaps in documentation.
- Document errors: Incorrect apostilles or translations can cause setbacks.
Professional assistance can help you navigate these hurdles effectively.
Benefits of Italian citizenship
Italian citizenship offers numerous advantages, including the ability to enjoy EU rights such as visa-free travel, work opportunities, and access to education across Europe. It also provides a unique chance to reconnect with Italian culture and traditions, deepening your bond with your heritage.
Furthermore, it ensures future opportunities for your descendants by allowing you to pass on citizenship, enabling them to enjoy the same wide-ranging benefits.
Obtaining Italian citizenship by descent, especially through great-grandparents, is a meaningful and rewarding process. By preparing properly and addressing potential challenges, you can successfully reconnect with your Italian heritage while embracing the opportunities of dual citizenship.
