Italian citizenship for children and grandchildren: Photo of families walking around the streets of Rome
Rooted in the principle of jus sanguinis (citizenship through descent), the laws surrounding Italian citizenship allowed countless individuals across the globe to maintain a connection to Italy, even generations after their ancestors emigrated.
Frequently Asked Questions on the changes to Italian Citizenship laws in 2025: Aerial photo showing the city of Francavilla Marittima
The Decree-Law No. 36/2025, published on March 28, 2025, introduces significant changes to Italian citizenship jus sanguinis (citizenship by descent). Previously, individuals could claim citizenship regardless of the number of generations separating them from their Italian ancestor, provided they could trace an unbroken lineage to an Italian citizen.
Italy’s stricter citizenship rules: Photo of Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome
Historically, jus sanguinis (citizenship by descent) allowed individuals to claim citizenship based on ancestry, even if they were separated by several generations from their Italian-born relatives. However, recent legislative changes have significantly tightened citizenship eligibility.
Mortgage in Italy: Photo of the city of Bologna
In recent years, more foreigners have sought to purchase property in Italy, either as a vacation retreat or as part of their plan to relocate. While financing options are available for non-residents, securing a loan or mortgage in Italy as a foreigner comes with bureaucratic challenges and strict requirements.
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.
What do I need to apply for Italian citizenship: photo of a couple watching the city of Florence from afar
Summary

Italian citizenship is a coveted status that denotes legal affiliation with Italy. Many people apply for Italian citizenship because it provides a myriad of benefits, including the right to live, work, and study in Italy and the European Union. Italian citizenship can be obtained through various means such as descent, birthright, marriage, and naturalization.

For residents of the United States, Italian citizenship can hold special significance. Not only does it provide the practical benefits of European Union citizenship, but it also offers a deeper connection to one’s ancestry.

The opportunity to claim citizenship through descent allows individuals to honor their heritage and stay connected to their ancestral roots.

Basic requirements for when you apply for Italian citizenship

To apply for Italian citizenship by descent, one must first establish eligibility. Direct descendants of Italian citizens are eligible to apply. This typically means proving that at least one of an applicant’s parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, or even great-great-grandparents was an Italian citizen at the time of a descendant’s birth.

Citizenship through marriage or naturalization requires different processes and requirements. Nevertheless, the eligibility requirements for citizenship by descent focus on demonstrating a direct and continuous lineage to an Italian ancestor.

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Here are the key documents needed for your application:

  • Birth certificates: Birth certificates for each family member starting from the applicant back to the Italian ancestor are crucial in demonstrating citizenship eligibility. These certificates must be official copies or extracts with full details pertaining to each birth.
     
  • Marriage certificates: If the Italian ancestor was married, marriage certificates provide a complete record of the legal union and help trace the lineage back through the Italian lineage.
     
  • Death certificates: The death certificates of ancestors are necessary to complete the documentation process. These records confirm the dates of death, which may be relevant for establishing timelines for citizenship transmission.
     

Other supporting documents, such as divorce judgments, naturalization certificates, and other legal records, may be required to fully establish the chain of Italian descent.

All these documents must be translated into Italian and authenticated with an apostille. Ensuring the accuracy and authenticity of these documents is crucial for a successful citizenship application.

Challenges in document gathering

Collecting all necessary documents accurately and in a timely manner can be a difficult task. Each ancestor’s country of residence and life events can influence the availability and complexity of obtaining these documents.

For instance, documents from certain countries may require additional steps or have specific archival processes. Moreover, ensuring that translations and apostilles are correctly done adds another layer of complexity to the process.

Given the complexities involved, it is ideal to consult a specialized company that focuses on Italian citizenship applications. These companies can provide tailored guidance, helping you navigate the document-gathering process efficiently.

Their expertise can prevent common mistakes and ensure that all documents meet the stringent requirements set by the Italian government.

How io.citizen can assist in your citizenship process

Io.citizen is a specialized service provider that offers comprehensive assistance throughout the entire Italian citizenship application process.

Our services are designed to make the process more efficient and less stressful for applicants by providing expert guidance and support every step of the way.

Services offered by io.citizen:

  • Document Gathering: Io.citizen assists in collecting all necessary documents, ensuring they are accurate, complete, and meet the requirements of the Italian government. Our team has experience in handling various types of documents and can help locate even the most challenging records.
     
  • Translations and Apostilles: The company provides professional translation services and ensures that all documents are appropriately authenticated with an apostille.
     
  • Genealogical Research: Expert genealogists at io.citizen can help trace your Italian lineage, providing detailed and verified family histories that support your citizenship application.
     
  • Legal Representation: For those needing to pursue their application through the judicial route, io.citizen offers experienced legal representation in Italian courts.
     
  • Application Submission and Follow-Up: Io.citizen handles the entire application submission process, ensuring that all documents are submitted correctly and on time. We also provide ongoing follow-up and updates on the status of your application, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.
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.

Why choose io.citizen?

First and foremost, choosing io.citizen means you’re opting for efficiency and expertise. Our comprehensive service package ensures that every aspect of your application is handled professionally, reducing the likelihood of errors and delays.

Additionally, our support extends beyond just the documentation; we offer personalized guidance tailored to your specific case, ensuring that you understand each step of the process.

For clients residing in the USA or other English-speaking regions, io.citizen provides multilingual support in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. This ensures clear communication and understanding, making the process smoother and more accessible.

Our services are not just about compliance but also about making the journey to Italian citizenship more manageable and less daunting.

In summary, while it is possible to undertake the citizenship application process independently, the complexities and potential pitfalls make it a challenging endeavor.

By engaging a specialized service like io.citizen, you can significantly increase your chances of success and enjoy a more streamlined and stress-free experience. Whether you choose the consular, judicial, or administrative route, having a dedicated team of experts by your side can make all the difference.

Io.citizen’s wealth of experience and comprehensive services offer a valuable resource for anyone embarking on the journey to reclaim their Italian heritage and unlock the benefits of Italian citizenship.

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

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