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

Photo of a person showing their Italian passport in front of the Colosseum
The Italian passport is not just a travel document; it’s a gateway to a world of opportunities. As the official travel document for Italian citizens, it grants the holder unprecedented global access, including visa-free entry to numerous countries. This includes the United States, which allows Italian passport holders to visit for up to 90 days without a visa through the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) program. More than a tool for travel, the Italian passport is a powerful symbol of belonging to the European Union (EU). It confers rights such as free movement and residency within EU member states.
Person on desk working on translation for Italian citizenship documents
Obtaining Italian citizenship is an intricate and detail-oriented process. One crucial aspect of this journey is ensuring that all documents submitted are accurately translated into Italian. This necessity rises from the requirement to have documents issued in other countries accepted by Italian authorities, ensuring they are understood and recognized without any issues. Translation for Italian citizenship is not merely a bureaucratic hurdle but a fundamental step in guaranteeing that your application is clear, complete, and compliant with Italian regulations.
Person working on documents for a federal apostille
An apostille is an official certification that verifies the authenticity of documents intended for use in international contexts. It’s essential for documents to be authenticated with an apostille when they are part of processes such as acquiring Italian citizenship. The apostille certifies that the document in question is legitimate and has been issued by the appropriate authority, thereby ensuring its acceptance by foreign institutions. This practice aligns with the Hague Convention of 1961, which established a simplified method of certifying documents for international use.
In the intricate journey of applying for Italian citizenship, accurate documentation emerges as a pivotal element. Italian authorities maintain stringent requirements to ensure that all names and dates on the documents presented align seamlessly. This consistency is crucial to verify the lineage and, consequently, the eligibility of the applicant. Whether pursuing citizenship through ancestry (jus sanguinis) or other routes, consistency in the documentation stands as a non-negotiable pillar. Any spelling discrepancies, particularly in the spelling of names, can pose significant challenges and hinder the application process.
Person holding documents for the certificate of naturalization
A Naturalization Certificate is a pivotal document in the process of applying for Italian citizenship by jus sanguinis, which translates to “right of blood.” This legal principle allows individuals to claim Italian citizenship through their ancestry, provided they meet specific criteria. A key part of this process is proving the citizenship status of one’s Italian ancestor, which is where the Naturalization Certificate comes into play. This document provides concrete evidence of whether and when an ancestor naturalized in another country, thus potentially losing their Italian citizenship.
Person holding documents of their Italian citizenship portfolio
The Italian Citizenship Portfolio is the meticulously organized collection of all necessary documents required to prove one’s right to Italian citizenship by descent. This portfolio plays a pivotal role in the recognition process, ensuring that all evidence is systematically presented. Keeping this portfolio comprehensive and well-organized not only mitigates the risk of delays but also significantly enhances the likelihood of a successful outcome. Recognizing the complexity and the high stakes involved in this process, it becomes evident why attention to detail and thorough preparation are paramount.
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.