Italy dual citizenship requirements

The philosophy of cucina povera in Italian cuisine

When people think of Italian food, they often picture elaborate pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas. While these staples are undeniably part of Italy’s culinary identity, they represent only a fraction of its gastronomic heritage. Behind these globally popular dishes lies a humble tradition known as cucina povera, or “poor man’s kitchen.”

12/10/2025

Mastering Italian coffee culture: from morning cappuccinos to the evening aperitivo ritual

Drinking coffee in Italy is a deeply rooted cultural ritual and a symbol of social connection. Introduced through trade routes in the 16th century, coffee quickly became a staple in Italian society, evolving from exotic luxury to everyday necessity. Today, Italy ranks among the top coffee-consuming countries in Europe, with millions of cups brewed and enjoyed daily in homes, bars, and cafés across the nation.

12/08/2025

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: history and art

Florence’s Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore—commonly known as the Duomo—is one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy. Towering over the city’s skyline with its massive red-tiled dome, the Duomo is a symbol of Florence’s artistic and architectural legacy.

12/05/2025

Liberation day in Italy: Honoring freedom and resistance

Every year on April 25, Italy celebrates one of the most defining moments in its modern history. Known officially as Festa della Liberazione—Liberation Day—this national holiday marks the end of fascist rule and Nazi occupation in Italy during World War II.

11/26/2025

The Pantheon in Rome: A timeless marvel of architecture, faith, and history

Standing at the heart of Rome, between Piazza Navona and Via del Corso, the Pantheon is one of the most extraordinary and best-preserved monuments of ancient Rome. With its massive dome, elegant Corinthian columns, and mysterious oculus, the Pantheon has captivated architects, historians, and visitors for centuries.

11/17/2025

The Trevi Fountain: Rome’s baroque masterpiece

Known in Italian as Fontana di Trevi, this late Baroque masterpiece is not only one of the most iconic fountains in the world but also a symbol of Rome’s rich artistic heritage and mythological storytelling. Located in the heart of the Trevi district, the fountain draws millions of visitors each year

11/13/2025

Obtaining Italian dual citizenship can be a rewarding process, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of both worlds. Whether you’re eligible through descent, marriage, or residency, understanding the requirements is essential. Let’s explore the pathways to Italian citizenship.

1. Residency Route

This is the most expensive route. Requirements varies according to your nationality:

Non-EU Citizens: If you’re a non-EU citizen, you’ll need at least 10 years of legal residency in Italy. Legal residency is determined by your registration within the municipal registry office (“anagrafe”). Keep track of your residency status during this period.
EU Citizens: EU citizens have a shorter legal residency requirement—only four years. Make sure to maintain your residency documentation throughout this period.

2. Descent (jus sanguinis)

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. While a centralized governmental authority in Italy is expected to oversee administrative applications, its structure and procedures have yet to be finalized

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3. Marriage to an Italian Citizen

If you’re married to an Italian citizen, you can apply for Italian citizenship. Here are the specifics:

Residency: You must have lawfully resided in Italy for at least two years following the marriage. If you have chosen to live abroad, you must wait three years.
Marital Status: At the time of application, your marriage must not have been dissolved, annulled, or terminated. You and your spouse must not be separated.

Necessary documents

Birth, death and marriage certificates of everyone in the line of descent (parents and/or grandparents) are required. For more information, head to this webpage.

Conclusion

Navigating the Italian citizenship process can be complex, but expert assistance can make it smoother. Count on io.citizen! We will assist you in obtaining your Italian citizenship. With our support, you’ll confidently embrace your Italian heritage while enjoying the benefits of dual citizenship. Contact us today!

August 1, 2024
11:41 pm