The right of blood: exploring jus sanguinis and its impact on italian citizenship

Official photo of Giorgia Meloni in 2023
Giorgia Meloni has emerged as one of the most prominent figures in contemporary Italian politics, shaping the nation’s political landscape with her leadership and ideological stance. As the leader of the Brothers of Italy (Fratelli d’Italia) party since 2014, she is the first woman to serve as Italy’s Prime Minister.
Italian citizenship by marriage processing time: Photo of couples walking around the historical monuments in the Italian comune of Bobbio
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.
Italian citizenship by marriage in 2025: Photo of newlyweds enjoying a trip to Venice
Italian citizenship by marriage has long been a pivotal legal pathway, enabling foreign spouses of Italian citizens to obtain nationality and integrate more deeply into Italian society. This provision not only fosters familial unity but also extends the benefits of Italian citizenship.
The new Italian citizenship law: Photo of the Victor Emmanuel II National Monument, located in Rome
On March 28, 2025, the Italian government enacted a decree introducing significant changes to the process of obtaining Italian citizenship. This new Italian citizenship law legislation imposes stricter eligibility requirements and fundamentally alters the application procedures for individuals claiming citizenship through jus sanguinis (right of blood).
The new Italian citizenship decree: Photo of io.citizen's office
The Italian Prime Minister has recently issued a decree that significantly alters the rules governing Italian citizenship. Until March 28, 2025, any person with an Italian ancestor—no matter how distant—could claim Italian citizenship. Under the new Italian citizenship decree, only those whose parents or grandparents were born in Italy retain this right.
The cost of living in Italy: Photo of a street market in the comune of Latina, on the Lazio region
Italy has long been an appealing destination for expatriates, students, and descendants seeking to reconnect with their roots. From its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes to its excellent public services and quality of life, it offers endless opportunities for those who make the move.
Right of blood: Photo of people walking in Via della Conciliazione, Rome
Summary

Our family is the strongest world we will ever have. Its history is what makes us who we are but also what is drawing our future.

When it comes to what belongs to us due to birth right, citizenship is not an exemption.

Depending on the country, several requirements, principles and laws might get involved but in most of them, you will be able to claim dual citizenship.  

Introduction to the Right of Blood 

The Principle of Jus sanguinis

Jus or Jure Sanguinis is a principle of nationality law that translates from the Latin to “the right of blood”. 

This principle states that regardless where the child is born, they will have the right to claim either one or both parents nationality or citizenship by birth right. 

Other principles of citizenship

Different countries might apply different rules. Some of them will base their nationality right on different principles such as:

  • Jus Soil: in which the child gets the nationality of the place where they are born, regardless of their parents nationality.
  • Naturalization: where the applicant achieves several requirements established by the country (marriage, residency, among others).
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Jus Sanguinis as a Universal Concept

The likelihood that a child of immigrants will receive citizenship in the country where they are born differs greatly between countries. 

However, at least for the last century, the general concept of family heritage and cultural transmission has gained a lot of weight in everyone’s mind. 

In a global world like the one we live in, the access to information and communication provide us with lots of opportunities but also questions. 

Trying to understand who we are and where we fit in is something that everyone struggles with at least once in their lifetime. 

The Jus Sanguinis principle is a way to get these answers; it is a personal right to understand our roots and reconnect with our family history. While also being able to visualize a new future full of opportunities and more suitable to us.

Italian Citizenship and Jus Sanguinis

Due to their well known immigration history, Italy recognizes Jus Sanguinis for all italian descendants that would like to reconnect to their heritage and claim their italian blood right.

In order to access this right, the applicant needs to present to Italian authorities enough evidence that proves their family blood line and connection with Italy by official documents and certificates (birth, marriage, death, among others).

Challenges and Opportunities in Obtaining Citizenship

Having the possibility of applying for dual citizenship is an opportunity that only a lucky few have.  However, having a European ancestor is not enough and the path to citizenship can be complicated.

Gathering the necessary official documentation to present to the Italian authorities is not an easy task. It requires a lot of work, time, patience and, unfortunately, money.

But, believe us when we say the headaches are worth it and the treasure at the end of the rainbow is immensely rewarding.

With your dual citizenship, you will not only have access to study and work possibilities in two countries. But as an Italian, you will also have all the benefits that any citizen of a member country of the European Union has. Thus facilitating your travel opportunities, residences, health, education, transforming you into a citizen of the world.

Conclusion: Jus Sanguinis as a Vital Connection

The principle of Jus Sanguinis plays  a crucial role in preserving and valuing identity and cultural heritage. 

It ensures that citizenship is not purely a legal status but a means of keeping  familial and cultural connections across generations. 

This approach helps individuals stay connected to their ancestral roots, allowing them to inherit and uphold cultural traditions, languages, and values passed down through their families.

By valuing heritage and identity, Jus Sanguinis reinforces the connections between individuals and their cultural legacies, enriching personal and collective experiences and contributing to a more inclusive and diverse world.

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.

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

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