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).
Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.
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 Italian children and grandchildren of Italian nationals that would like to reconnect to their heritage and claim their Italian blood right.
Additionally, individuals may qualify if their Italian parent—not grandparent—legally resided in Italy for at least two consecutive years, even if the parent was not born there. Importantly, the Italian ancestor must have held exclusive Italian citizenship at the time of their death for the right to be passed on.
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 parent or grandparent 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.
Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.
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.