
Wondering how to get Italian citizenship? This guide covers everything you need to know, whether through descent, marriage, residency, or investment. Discover the required steps and documents to make your Italian citizenship dream a reality.
Key Takeaways
- Italian citizenship offers benefits like visa-free travel to 190 destinations and residency rights across the EU.
- There are multiple pathways to obtain citizenship, including descent, naturalization, marriage, and investment.
- Proper documentation and adherence to specific eligibility criteria are crucial for a successful citizenship application.
Benefits of Italian Citizenship

Taking up Italian citizenship unlocks a plethora of opportunities. One of the most significant advantages is visa-free travel to 190 destinations worldwide, making it one of the most powerful passports globally. This freedom allows you to explore new cultures, business opportunities, and educational prospects without the hassle of visa applications.
As an Italian citizen, you also gain residency rights across the European Union. This means you can:
- Live in any of the 27 EU member states
- Work in any of the 27 EU member states
- Study in any of the 27 EU member states without needing additional permits
Imagine the convenience and flexibility this brings, whether you’re pursuing higher education in Paris, starting a business in Berlin, or retiring in the sunny climes of Spain.
Political engagement is another perk. Italian citizens have the right to vote in national elections, even if they reside outside Italy. This ensures that you can have a say in the country’s future and maintain a connection to its democratic processes.
The Italian government permits dual citizenship, allowing you to keep your original nationality alongside the benefits of an Italian passport. This dual status can be particularly advantageous for individuals with business interests or family ties in multiple countries.
Main Pathways to Obtain Italian Citizenship

There are several pathways to obtaining Italian citizenship, each catering to different circumstances. The most common method is through descent, known as jure sanguinis. This principle allows individuals to claim citizenship if they have an Italian ancestor, regardless of where they were born. It’s a beautiful way to reconnect with your Italian heritage and pass it on to future generations.
Another pathway is through naturalization. This typically requires residing in Italy for a minimum of ten years, but there are exceptions for individuals with specific ties to the country, such as those who work for the Italian government or serve in the military. The Golden Visa program is another route, offering residency and eventual citizenship for those who invest in the Italian economy.
Marriage to an Italian citizen also provides a pathway to citizenship. A non-Italian spouse can apply for citizenship after two years of marriage if the couple resides in Italy, or after one year if they have children. Each of these pathways has its own unique requirements and benefits, making it essential to choose the one that best aligns with your circumstances.
Eligibility for Italian Citizenship by Descent (Jure Sanguinis)
To claim Italian citizenship jure sanguinis by descent, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. The primary requirement is proving that you are a direct descendant of an Italian ancestor born after March 17, 1861, the year Italy became a unified nation. This could include great-grandchildren of Italian ancestors.
You must demonstrate that your Italian ancestor was an Italian citizen at the time of your birth and had not been a naturalized citizen of another country before that. For example, if your ancestor became a U.S. citizen before your birth, you would not be eligible for Italian citizenship.
There are also gender-based limitations to consider. Children born before January 1, 1948, can only claim citizenship through their fathers, as Italian law before this date did not allow women to pass on citizenship. Additionally, if your female ancestor married a non-Italian before this date, she would have automatically lost her Italian citizenship, impacting your eligibility.
Documentation is critical in this process. Necessary documents include your ancestor’s Italian birth certificate, marriage certificate, and any naturalization papers. You must also show that neither you nor your ancestors renounced their Italian citizenship at any point. Meeting these requirements can pave the way for you and your descendants to become proud Italian citizens.
Steps to Apply for Italian Citizenship by Descent

The journey to obtaining Italian citizenship by descent starts with identifying your latest Italian-born ancestor, such as a grandparent or great-grandparent, especially if you have Italian ancestry. This step is crucial as it forms the basis of your eligibility.
Next, gather all necessary documents, including your ancestor’s naturalization records, birth certificates, and additional records. Certified copies of these documents are essential for your application. Additionally, you will need American vital records, such as birth, marriage, and divorce certificates, for both you and your lineage.
All American documents must be authenticated with an apostille and translated into Italian. This ensures their validity and acceptance by Italian authorities. It’s a meticulous process, but with proper diligence, you can achieve it.
Finally, book an appointment with your local Italian consulate to submit your application and documents in person. During this appointment, present your completed application and relevant documents. This face-to-face meeting is a crucial step towards becoming an Italian citizen.
Requirements for Naturalization Through Residency
For those preferring the naturalization route, a minimum of ten years of legal residency in Italy is typically required. However, this period can be reduced under specific conditions, such as two years of residency followed by a declaration of intent to obtain citizenship.
Language proficiency is another critical requirement. Applicants must secure a B1-level Italian language certificate, indicating intermediate proficiency. This level of proficiency is essential for various educational programs and employment opportunities within Italy and the EU.
Additionally, applicants must declare their income and demonstrate a clean criminal record. These requirements ensure that new citizens can support themselves financially and contribute positively to Italian society.
Applying for Italian Citizenship by Marriage
Marrying an Italian citizen offers a unique pathway to citizenship. A non-Italian spouse can apply for citizenship after two years of marriage if the couple resides in Italy, or after one year if they have children. This route is particularly appealing for those who have built their lives in Italy alongside their Italian partners.
Language proficiency is a mandatory requirement. Since December 2018, spouses must obtain a B1-level Italian language certificate to apply for citizenship. This certification ensures that applicants can communicate effectively in everyday situations.
The processing time for citizenship by marriage is typically up to 48 months from the date the application is accepted. This period allows the Italian authorities to thoroughly review each application, ensuring all criteria are met.
Italian Citizenship by Investment

The Italian Golden Visa program offers an attractive route for those willing to invest in the Italian economy. The minimum investment starts at 250,000 EUR, depending on the chosen investment option. This could include investments in innovative startups, businesses, government bonds, or philanthropic donations, but not real estate.
The initial duration of the Golden Visa is two years, which can be renewed for an additional three years if the investment is maintained. This period allows investors to build their ties to Italy and eventually apply for citizenship.
To apply for the Golden Visa, applicants must submit a commitment to investing in the Italian economy along with various required documentation. This process ensures that only serious investors contribute to Italy’s growth and prosperity.
Necessary Documents for Italian Citizenship Applications
Gathering the correct documentation is vital for any citizenship application. Start by obtaining your ancestor’s Italian birth certificate and naturalization papers. These documents are foundational proof of your eligibility.
Any discrepancies in names, birthdates, or places across documents must be legally resolved before submission. This often requires an official affidavit to amend records and ensure consistency. These corrections are crucial to avoid application rejection.
Ensure all documents are translated into Italian and authenticated with an apostille. This step confirms their validity and acceptance by Italian authorities. Proper documentation can significantly smooth the application process.
Where to Submit Your Application and Processing Times
Citizenship applications must be submitted to the Italian authority corresponding to your primary residence during the year. This ensures that the application is processed by the relevant jurisdiction.
Processing times for citizenship applications vary widely based on individual factors. Some applications are processed within a few months, while others may take several years. Applicants will be notified by email upon completion.
Delays in obtaining an appointment at the Italian consulate can lead to complications in the application process. It’s essential to plan ahead and book appointments as early as possible to avoid unnecessary delays.
Alternatives to Italian Citizenship

For those seeking faster pathways to citizenship, countries like Portugal and Malta offer attractive alternatives. Malta provides citizenship through an investment program that is quicker than traditional pathways in Italy. Portugal’s Golden Visa program also offers residency options that can lead to citizenship within a few years.
While Italy has its unique benefits, these alternatives can expedite the process of becoming an EU citizen. It’s worth exploring all options to find the best fit for your circumstances.
Common Reasons for Denial of Italian Citizenship
One of the most common reasons for the denial of Italian citizenship applications is inaccurate documentation. Discrepancies in names, dates, or places across different documents can lead to questioning eligibility.
Incomplete or missing documents significantly increase the risk of application denial. Ensure that all required documents are gathered, translated, and authenticated to meet the application criteria.
Financial noncompliance, such as failing to demonstrate stable income or economic self-sufficiency, can also result in rejected applications. Adhering to all requirements increases the likelihood of a successful application.
Summary
The journey to obtaining Italian citizenship is multi-faceted, with various pathways like descent, naturalization, marriage, and investment. Each route has its own unique requirements and benefits, offering something for everyone.
Embracing Italian citizenship not only reconnects you with your heritage but also opens up a world of opportunities within the EU. With careful planning and adherence to the necessary steps and documentation, you can achieve your dream of becoming an Italian citizen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for Italian citizenship if my mother was born before 1948?
Yes, you can apply for Italian citizenship if your mother was born before 1948, but only if you were born after January 1, 1948, as citizenship could not be passed from women to their children prior to this date.
How long does it take to process an application through marriage?
The application processing time for citizenship through marriage generally takes up to 48 months from the date the application is accepted. It is important to be prepared for this duration.
What are the investment options for the Italian Golden Visa?
The investment options for the Italian Golden Visa include innovative startups, businesses, government bonds, and philanthropic donations, with real estate not being an option. It is essential to consider these avenues to successfully secure the visa.
Do I need to speak Italian to apply for citizenship by descent?
You do not need to speak Italian to apply for citizenship by descent, as language proficiency is only a requirement for naturalization and citizenship by marriage.
What should I do if my documents have discrepancies?
It is essential to legally resolve any discrepancies in your documents, such as names, dates, or places, by obtaining an official affidavit prior to submission of your application. This will ensure your application is processed without complications.