Understanding the Italian citizenship rules

The philosophy of cucina povera in Italian cuisine

When people think of Italian food, they often picture elaborate pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas. While these staples are undeniably part of Italy’s culinary identity, they represent only a fraction of its gastronomic heritage. Behind these globally popular dishes lies a humble tradition known as cucina povera, or “poor man’s kitchen.”

12/10/2025

Mastering Italian coffee culture: from morning cappuccinos to the evening aperitivo ritual

Drinking coffee in Italy is a deeply rooted cultural ritual and a symbol of social connection. Introduced through trade routes in the 16th century, coffee quickly became a staple in Italian society, evolving from exotic luxury to everyday necessity. Today, Italy ranks among the top coffee-consuming countries in Europe, with millions of cups brewed and enjoyed daily in homes, bars, and cafés across the nation.

12/08/2025

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: history and art

Florence’s Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore—commonly known as the Duomo—is one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy. Towering over the city’s skyline with its massive red-tiled dome, the Duomo is a symbol of Florence’s artistic and architectural legacy.

12/05/2025

Liberation day in Italy: Honoring freedom and resistance

Every year on April 25, Italy celebrates one of the most defining moments in its modern history. Known officially as Festa della Liberazione—Liberation Day—this national holiday marks the end of fascist rule and Nazi occupation in Italy during World War II.

11/26/2025

The Pantheon in Rome: A timeless marvel of architecture, faith, and history

Standing at the heart of Rome, between Piazza Navona and Via del Corso, the Pantheon is one of the most extraordinary and best-preserved monuments of ancient Rome. With its massive dome, elegant Corinthian columns, and mysterious oculus, the Pantheon has captivated architects, historians, and visitors for centuries.

11/17/2025

The Trevi Fountain: Rome’s baroque masterpiece

Known in Italian as Fontana di Trevi, this late Baroque masterpiece is not only one of the most iconic fountains in the world but also a symbol of Rome’s rich artistic heritage and mythological storytelling. Located in the heart of the Trevi district, the fountain draws millions of visitors each year

11/13/2025

Italian citizenship is governed by a set of laws that outline who is eligible and how they can exercise this right. Each pathway to citizenship has specific rules that must be followed. Understanding these Italian citizenship rules is very important for anyone seeking citizenship, as it helps in preparing adequately and following the correct procedures, thereby avoiding rejections or delays in the process.

Citizenship by descent (Jus Sanguinis)

One of the primary ways to obtain Italian citizenship is through descent, known as jus sanguinis. As of March 28, 2025, this means that one must have an Italian parent or grandparent who was born in Italy. However, an exception applies if a parent legally resided in Italy for at least two years before their child’s birth or adoption. Applicants must prove that their Italian relative held citizenship exclusively at the time of death.

Nevertheless, there are specific limitations, particularly for descendants of women. If the Italian ancestor (mother or grandmother) is a woman who gave birth to next in line before 1948, the descendants can only obtain citizenship through a judicial process. This is due to historical interpretation of the Italian citizenship rules and laws, which was addressed by the Italian Constitutional Court. Law No. 91 of 1992, which reformed Italian citizenship laws, remains relevant but still requires judicial intervention for female ancestry cases dating back to 1948.

Citizenship by marriage

For those married to an Italian citizen, the rules for obtaining citizenship are based on the duration of the marriage and residency. If the couple resides in Italy, the non-Italian spouse can apply for citizenship after two years of marriage. If they reside abroad, the waiting period extends to three years. These periods are halved if the couple has children.

Since 2018, a certification of Italian language proficiency has been required. The non-Italian spouse must demonstrate knowledge of the Italian language at a B1 level, which is an intermediate level, through an official test. This requirement ensures that the spouse can integrate into Italian society more effectively.

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Citizenship by residency

Foreigners who legally reside in Italy can apply for citizenship after ten years of continuous residence. However, there are differences for individuals of Italian descent and citizens of the European Union, who have shorter residency requirements.

In addition to the residency period, applicants must demonstrate economic stability and integrity. This means providing proof of sufficient financial means to support themselves and a clean criminal record. These requirements ensure that new citizens can contribute positively to Italian society.

Following the rules to ensure success

To successfully obtain Italian citizenship, it is crucial to follow each rule precisely. This includes gathering the necessary documents, scheduling interviews, and meeting all legal requirements. Adhering to these rules helps avoid delays and rejections, ensuring a smoother process. To stay informed and updated, make sure to check official sources, such as consulates and embassy’s websites and documents.

Given the complexity of the rules and the potential for changes, it is highly recommended to consult specialists who can provide guidance on the most recent regulations. These experts can help navigate the process and ensure that all steps are completed correctly, in accordance with Italian laws.

By understanding and following the Italian citizenship rules, applicants can increase their chances of successfully obtaining Italian citizenship and enjoying the benefits that come with it.

Count on io.citizen

If you feel that the Italian citizenship rules for application is too much to handle on your own, consider hiring the services of an Italian citizenship assistance company, such as io.citizen. Our team of experts is ready to guide you to your long-awaited Italian citizenship. Contact us today, and let us help make your dream come true!

October 21, 2024
1:30 pm