The cost of living in Italy: Photo of a street market in Naples
taly has long captivated the imagination of travelers and dreamers alike. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the bustling streets of Milan, it offers a rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and history. But beyond its postcard-perfect charm, Italy is increasingly becoming a practical destination for expatriates and dual citizens.
Christmas in Italy: Photo of the holiday decorations on Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, in Milan
Christmas in Italy, or Natale, is a cultural and religious experience that stretches across regions, generations, and centuries. From the solemnity of sacred traditions to the warmth of family gatherings and the indulgence of festive foods, Italian Christmas is a season of joy, reflection, and community.
Italian Constitutional Court upholds citizenship by descent: Photo of the city of Florence
The Italian Constitutional Court reaffirmed the legitimacy of citizenship by descent (jus sanguinis) for individuals born outside Italy. The ruling, issued under Sentence No. 142/2025, rejected constitutional challenges raised by four ordinary courts—Rome, Milan, Florence, and Bologna—against the long-standing legal framework that allows descendants of Italian nationals to claim citizenship regardless of generational distance or territorial ties.
The best cities to live in Italy in 2025: Photo of the city of Milan
Italy conjures images of sun-drenched piazzas, Renaissance art, and plates of pasta that seem to defy culinary logic. But for those considering moving to the country—not just a vacation trip—the question shifts from “Where’s the most beautiful?” to “Where can I actually live well?”.
Exploring the Italian and American cultural differences: Photo of a classical Italian car in a mountain road
Culture is more than language, food, or fashion—it’s a way of life, a lens through which people interpret the world and define themselves. For Italian-Americans, navigating the space between Italian heritage and American identity often brings both pride and tension.
Italy’s 2026–2028 work visa decree: Photo of people working on markets in Rome
With the intention of addressing Italy’s labor shortages, the Council of Ministers, under the leadership of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has approved a new decree on labor migration and work visas. Scheduled for implementation across the 2026–2028 period, the decree authorizes 497,550 legal entries for non-European Union workers with permanent or seasonal contracts—an increase from the previous allocation of 450,000 permits during the 2023–2025 cycle.
Loss and reacquisition of italian citizenship: Wide shot photo of Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Italy
Summary

Italian citizenship is a desired status, especially for those with ancestral ties to the country. It’s primarily passed down through jus sanguinis (right of blood), meaning that if you have an Italian parent or grandparent, you might be eligible for citizenship. However, there are instances where this citizenship can be lost.

On the flip side, there are also clear paths to reclaim it, depending on your circumstances. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the process involved in the loss and reacquisition of Italian citizenship.

Ways to Lose Italian Citizenship

Acquisition of Another Citizenship:

Before 1992, Italian citizenship was automatically revoked if an individual acquired the citizenship of another country. This policy primarily affected descendants of Italians who emigrated to places such as the United States, Brazil, and Argentina, where acquiring local citizenship was often a necessity. This revocation meant that countless individuals with Italian roots lost their citizenship simply by becoming naturalized citizens elsewhere.

Voluntary Renunciation:

In rare instances, some individuals might choose to voluntarily renounce their Italian citizenship. This often occurs when another country requires such a renunciation as a condition for granting its citizenship. While this is not a common scenario, it’s worth noting that the voluntary renunciation of Italian citizenship is a legally recognized process.

Reacquisition of Italian Citizenship

Automatic Recovery:

Since 1992, the laws surrounding Italian citizenship have evolved, providing a lifeline to those who lost their citizenship upon acquiring another. Italians who found themselves in this predicament can now regain their citizenship automatically by residing in Italy for a continuous period of one year. After this period, their citizenship is restored, effectively reconnecting them with their Italian heritage and the benefits that come with it.

Judicial Process:

For some, the path to regaining Italian citizenship may involve legal proceedings. This is particularly true for individuals whose citizenship was revoked due to complex bureaucratic or historical reasons. For instance, women married before 1948 faced discriminatory laws that only allowed citizenship to be passed down through the paternal line. These outdated laws have been challenged in court. Nowadays, one can apply for citizenship through a judicial process that can restore citizenship to those affected.

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

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

The quote is quick, free, and without any commitment. We'll get back to you with more details within 24 hours.

Requirements for Reacquisition

The cornerstone of regaining Italian citizenship automatically is establishing legal residency in Italy for one year. This process involves obtaining an initial visa, registering your residence with local authorities, and adhering to various legal requirements. Ensuring that all residency requirements are met is essential to avoid complications in the citizenship reacquisition process.

It is important to highlight that one cannot reacquire Italian citizenship through a consulate. You must apply for reacquisition at their local commune. However, contacting the nearest consulate for information is encouraged, and you might find the information you need on their official website.

As for the documents you will need before going to Italy, it is advisable to send the following to the nearest Italian consulate: an Italian birth certificate, a copy of the US naturalization certificate, copies of your US passport and driving license, or a utility bill for address verification.

If you aren’t a US citizen or resident, ensure you check with your country’s nearest consulate to identify the proper documentation needed to apply for Italian citizenship.

Possible Risks and Difficulties

Navigating the bureaucratic landscape can be challenging, particularly for those who do not reside in Italy. The process of regaining citizenship, although well-defined, can be lengthy and fraught with administrative hurdles. Hiring the services of a specialized consultancy or legal expert can significantly ease this burden, ensuring that all procedural requirements are met and expediting the application process.

In certain cases, ambiguities in old legal records or the complexity of historical citizenship laws can pose significant challenges. These issues require a detailed analysis by legal professionals who specialize in Italian citizenship law. Addressing these complications early in the process is crucial to prevent unforeseen obstacles and ensure a successful outcome.

A Path to Restored Citizenship

For those who have lost their Italian citizenship, the journey to regaining it offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with their heritage and enjoy the benefits of being an Italian and EU citizen. This status not only provides a link to one’s cultural roots but also opens doors to numerous rights and privileges within the European Union. Preparation and adherence to legal requirements are paramount in this process. By carefully following the necessary steps and seeking expert guidance when needed, individuals can successfully navigate the path to restored citizenship.

Reacquiring Italian citizenship is a process rich with historical significance and personal meaning. It represents a reclaiming of identity and a renewed connection to a storied heritage. As such, it’s a journey worth embarking upon for those who value their Italian roots and wish to fully embrace their place within the broader Italian community.

If you want a smooth and efficient path to Italian citizenship, consider hiring expert assistance, such as io.citizen. Our team is ready to make your dream come true. Contact us today!

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

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