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

Introduction to the Italian embassy in New York

The Italian Embassy in New York serves as a vital link between Italy and the Italian-American community in the United States. Established many years ago, it strengthens ties between Italy and the thousands of Italian descendants who call America their home. The embassy provides access to several exclusive services for Italians residing abroad and allows descendants of Italians to apply for Italian citizenship. Let us delve further into this institution.

12/19/2024

10 main steps in getting Italian citizenship

Italian citizenship is a gateway to exploring a rich cultural heritage and enjoying the benefits of being a European citizen. The process of acquiring Italian citizenship involves several steps, but with the right guidance, it becomes a manageable journey. This guide will walk you through the essential steps in getting Italian citizenship to ensure you are well-prepared to achieve your goal of becoming an Italian citizen.

12/18/2024

Guide to moving for expatriates: choosing the best cities in Italy

Italy has long been a dream destination for many, thanks to its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in relocating to Italy, with people from around the world looking to make it their new home. Choosing the right city is crucial for ensuring a high quality of life and successful cultural integration. This guide will help you understand the key criteria for selecting a city and highlight some of the best cities in Italy for expatriates.

12/17/2024

Italian women: Addressing gender inequality in Italian citizenship

The issue of gender inequality in the process of obtaining Italian citizenship has been a significant concern, particularly for those affected by the “1948 rule.” This rule, which prevented Italian women from passing on their Italian citizenship to their children if they were married to a foreigner before 1948, has long-lasting implications. This text aims to explore the historical context, legal evolution, practical impacts, and available solutions to address this inequality.

12/16/2024

An in-depth look at Italian last names: origins, significance, and the path to citizenship

Italian last names offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. These names carry with them stories of family, regional identity, and societal roles that have evolved over centuries. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the historical context, common origins, geographic distribution, the importance of last names in the process of obtaining Italian citizenship and how these names have adapted and changed through immigration.

12/13/2024

The history and impact of Italian immigration in the United States: the cultural heritage of American people of Italian descent

Italian immigration to the United States has a rich and multifaceted history that significantly shaped society and the heritage of American people of Italian descent. The initial waves of migration began in the late 1800s, driven by poor economic conditions in Southern Italy. Regions like Sicily, Calabria, Apulia, Molise, Basilicata, Campania, and Abruzzo faced dire circumstances, prompting many Italians to seek new opportunities abroad.

12/12/2024

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.