Italy dual citizenship requirements

The history of the Ponte Vecchio and its significance to Florence

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.

10/03/2025

Italian culinary traditions: A journey through flavor, heritage, and identity

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.

10/01/2025

The Italian language: Origins, evolution, and global significance

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

09/29/2025

What is Jus Soli and how it works in different countries

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.

09/26/2025

Retiring in Italy as an American: A path to peace, culture, and citizenship

Italy has long captivated the hearts of travelers with its timeless beauty, rich culture, and relaxed lifestyle. But for many Americans, it’s more than a vacation destination—it’s an ideal place to retire. With its mild climate, world-class healthcare, and vibrant communities, retiring in Italy offers a compelling alternative to traditional options in the U.S.

09/24/2025

Famous cities in Italy and their connection to Italian citizenship

Italy is a living tapestry of art, architecture, cuisine, and centuries-old traditions. From the ruins of ancient Rome to the Renaissance masterpieces of Florence, each city tells a story that resonates far beyond its borders. For millions of people around the world with Italian ancestry, these cities represent not only cultural heritage but also a personal connection to their own ancestry.

09/10/2025

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