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Italy

Citizenship by Descent

Italian citizenship is one of the most valuable in the world. It allows visa-free travel to the US and Australia and enables you to live anywhere in Europe.

Italian citizenship by  Descent or Ancestry (Jure Sanguinis) is open to individuals with Italian ancestry if the citizenship by blood was passed down all the way to him or her. The citizenship is passed down as long as the Italian parent has not lost his citizenship before the birth of his/her child. Italian citizenship was lost in the past if another citizenship was taken. Those that lost their Italian connection this way can still be fast-tracked to Italian citizenship. Foreigners normally need to have 10 years of residence in Italy before they can apply for naturalization.

Italy accepts dual citizenship, so you don’t have to forfeit your current citizenship to apply.

Italy Citizenship by Descent
Program SnapshotWhat is Italian CBDEligibilityBenefitsRequirementsHow to obtainTypes of ApplicantsFees and CostsTimelineStatisticsFAQsBlog

Eligibility requirements

No generational limit: Couldn't have left prior to 1861.

Anchor Ancestor restrictions

Emigration Date: 1861

Naturalization Date: 1912

Visa-free travel countries

189 Countries

Appointment Availability

Extremely Difficult

Months to citizenship

36 to 60 months

Physical presence requirement

0 days

Update: New ruling by the Italian Supreme Court, the “minor issue” & the effects on Citizenship by Descent Eligibility

There has been a new ruling from the Cassation Court (Italian Supreme Court), one of the highest courts in Italy, (Decision 17161 of June 15, 2023) that could affect huge numbers of people seeking citizenship by descent, both through courts and administrative lines through consulates/comuni"

Can't get a Consular appointment for year?

Avoid the Consulate: Italian Dual Citizenship in a fraction of the time

Can't get a consular appointment for multiple years?

Cant get one at all?

The Problem We Solve

Are you eligible for Italian citizenship but stuck in a bureaucratic maze? Have you found yourself waiting years for an Italian Consular Appointment or The US Italian consulates often present a daunting challenge with some Consulates with 10 plus years wait time. Even if you secure an appointment, the process can be frustratingly slow, and the clerks may seem like insurmountable obstacles. The road to Italian citizenship through this route can take up to 4 to 10 years.

Your right to citizenship is based on Jus Sanguinis (blood right)

  Italy deploys a principle called Jure Sanguinis when it comes to citizenship. Simply put, this law ensures that anyone with legitimate ancestral ties to Italy can be entitled to Italian citizenship through descent.

More than 17 million Americans have Italian ancestry.

Without any generational limit, earning EU Citizenship is within the grasp of many Italian Americans.

The Italian Parliament's 1992 update of Italian nationality law is Law no. 91, and came into force on 15 August 1992

The foundation of Italy's nationality law is primarily built upon the principle of Jus Sanguinis, or "right of blood," which is also known as citizenship by descent. Under this principle, a person can acquire Italian citizenship by merely being born to an Italian parent, irrespective of the birthplace or whether the parent was cognizant of their citizenship status.

Italian citizenship is automatically transmitted to the offspring of an Italian citizen, and this process persists without any generational constraints, provided there has been no disruption in the lineage of citizenship.

What is Italian Citizenship by Descent?

The topic of Italian dual citizenship is increasingly gaining attention as people worldwide discover the possibility of obtaining Italian citizenship and maintaining dual citizenship. Many are intrigued by this prospect and are opting to go through the Jus Sanguinis process themselves. The laws governing Italian citizenship recognition for individuals of Italian descent have existed for over a century, although they have undergone changes over time to increase accessibility. In our contemporary, interconnected and mobile world, it is much simpler to traverse the globe than it was when our ancestors departed Italy. As a result, obtaining Italian citizenship has become more feasible, and future generations can now enjoy the benefits associated with Italian citizenship without limitations by transferring it to them.

Italian citizenship is currently regulated by Law No. 91/1992 (and related implementing regulations: in particular, Presidential Decree No. 572 of  October 12, 1993 and Presidential Decree No. 362 of April 18, 1994) which, unlike the previous Law, revalues the importance of individual intention in the acquisition or loss of citizenship and recognize the right to hold more than one citizenship at the same time.

Free Italian Citizenship
Eligibility Assessment

Benefits

Family Privileges

EU Education
The right to an education in any EU member state.
EU Healthcare Rights
The right to free public health services in every EU member state.

Opportunities

Live & Work in the EU
The ability to live and work in any EU member state indefinitely.
Future Generations
Automatically passes on to
future generations.

Safety

Consular Protection
Each member state’s entitlement to consular protection while visiting another country.

Leverage / Control

Renounce Citizenship
Give up your ancestral passport and your high-tax citizenship.
Local Elections
The ability to cast a ballot in local elections in other EU countries.

Mobility Rights

Schengen Mobility
Mobility without restriction between members and other European nations.
Visa Free Travel
Automatically passed down to
future generations

Tax Efficiency

Additional investment
opportunities

A second passport will expand your options for tax planning.

Requirements:

What are Italian citizenship application requirements?

One of the easiest citizenship by descent programs in the EU

How to Determine if You Are Eligible for Italian Citizenship by Descent

To be eligible for Italian citizenship by descent, your ancestor must still have been an Italian citizen and not have renounced their citizenship or become naturalized as a citizen of another country before the next generation was born.This means that you need to trace your lineage back to an Italian ancestor who was a citizen of Italy at the time of your birth. If your ancestor naturalized before you were born, you are not eligible for citizenship under jure sanguinis (the right of blood).

One important date to keep in mind is July 1, 1912.

This is when Italian law 555/1912 regarding citizenship was put into effect. This law includes provisions that are still in effect today. Any ancestors who became naturalized before July 1, 1912 cannot transmit citizenship to the next generation, even to children minor born before that person's naturalization. This is because the line of citizenship would have been broken.

Eligibility

Who is eligible for Italian Citizenship by Descent?

Your right to apply is based on
Jus Sanguinis (blood right)

Italy deploys a principle called Jure Sanguinis when it comes to citizenship. Simply put, this law ensures that anyone with legitimate ancestral ties to Italy can be entitled to Italian citizenship through descent.There is not a generation limit for applying for Italian Citizenship by descent. However, you should keep these points in mind:

You cannot go back before the 1861s, Italy started to exist only in 1861.

The Italian Citizenship Line must not have been broken.

This rule is valid if you apply for Jure sanguinis through a male line.

Or, also if you apply for Italian Citizenship by descent maternal line.

Condition 3

Requires the applicant to hold a Slovakian residence permit (hyperlink to Slovak Residency requirement), which is an unusual requirement for citizenship by ancestry programs. However, this allows for more extensive vetting of potential applicants. There is no set time for how long an applicant must hold their residency, and the residency application process is simplified for the purposes of the citizenship by descent program. Additionally, there is no physical residence card issued. In practice, you can apply for both residence and citizenship at the same time at your nearest Slovak embassy, without needing to come to Slovakia for any part of the process.

Alternatively, you can obtain a "Slovak Living Abroad" (hyperlink to SLA section/def )certificate, also known as "semi-citizenship," which grants you a residence permit and a physical residency card.

(SEE SLA Requirements- hyperlink)

The duration of the entire process is currently unknown, but it is certain that you will not be required to demonstrate proficiency in Slovak or renounce your other citizenship upon obtaining Slovak citizenship.

Regarding your family members, your spouse will not receive any special treatment. If your children were born before you became a Slovak citizen, they would need to have a qualifying Slovak ancestor to be eligible for citizenship (hyperlink to children FAQ).

For example, if you are qualifying through your Slovak great-grandfather (3rd generation), your children, who are four generations removed, would not be eligible. However, any children born to you after you become a Slovak citizen would automatically inherit Slovak citizenship at birth.

How to obtain Italian Citizenship by Descent

Step 1

Determine your most appropriate ancestor

The first step in applying for Italian citizenship by descent is to determine which of your Italian ancestors you are eligible to claim through. To do this, you will need to gather information about their birth and naturalization, as well as the names and dates of birth and marriage of all of the individuals in your Italian line, starting from the ancestor who was born in Italy.

Here are some key details to consider:

Where your Italian-born ancestor was born?

What was the name of the city or village where they were born?

Did your ancestor naturalize as a citizen of another country? If so, when?

What was your ancestor's birth date? Did they use any aliases?

What are the names and dates of birth and marriage of all of the individuals in your Italian line, starting from the ancestor who was born in Italy?

Step 2

Choose the most appropriate legislative path

Once you have determined your most appropriate ancestor, you will need to choose the legislative path under which to apply for citizenship.

There are two main paths:

Jure sanguinis:

This is the right of blood. You are eligible to apply for citizenship under jure sanguinis if you have an Italian parent or grandparent.

Jure matrimoni:

Jure matrimonii: This is the right of marriage. You are eligible to apply for citizenship under jure matrimonii if you are married to an Italian citizen.

The key questions:

Is there a woman in your Italian lineage who gave birth to her child before January 1st, 1948?

If no, apply at consulate
If yes, apply through court in Italy

Did your Italian-born ancestor naturalized before his/her child’s birth (born in the US)? Or, prior to 1912?

If yes, requires 3 years of residency in Italy

This information will help decide which path to supply under, which there are four path options:

Which is the best option for me?

There are four paths available to qualified applicants

Path #1

Apply from U.S. consulate

Path #2

Italian Court

Path #3

1948 Cases

Path #4

Apply from Italy

Direct Ancestors

Direct Path to Apply for Citizenship, does not require a residency period. If through your paternal line, you can submit your application at the Italian Consulate under the jurisdiction of where you are a formal resident. If you have a 1948 case, You must apply through through the local Italian Immigration Court, based on where your Italian ancestor was born.

The key question:

“Did your Italian-born ancestor naturalize before his/her child’s birth (born in the US)? Or prior to 1912?

If yes, may be eligible through naturalization, If no to both, apply for Citizenship directly

Avoid the Consulate:
Apply Directly in Italy

By establishing Permanent Residency in Italy, on the basis of being eligible for Citizenship by Descent, you can obtain citizenship within 2-4 months. Minimal physical presence in Italy is required.

Which is the best option for me?

There are four paths available to qualified applicants

U.S. Italian
Consulate
Book appointment at local consulate
Total Time:
48+ Months
  • Vital Record Collection and Preparation: 3 months
  • Consular Appointment: 36+ Years  (average wait time in US to obtain appointment)
Italian
Court
File lawsuit against Italian government in Rome court
Total Time:
30+ Months
  • Vital Record Collection and Preparation: 3 months
  • Consular Appointment/ Court Petition: 3 -6 Months (must first  obtain proof of inability to gain consular can petition court)
Italian Court
1948 Case
Apply from the  local Commune where your AA emigrated from
Total Time:
20+ Months
  • Vital Record Collection and Preparation: 3 months
Apply
from Italy
Establish long-term residency in Italy and then apply at your local Comune
Total Time:
6 Months
  • Vital Record Collection and Preparation: 3 months
  • Establish Residency in Italy: 1 to 3 Months

Path 1

Apply from U.S. Consulate

Mission Impossible

It is virtually impossible to obtain an appointment anywhere in the U.S.

If you are applying through a Paternal Descendent, you can submit application to the Italian consulate abroad. It is the administrative office that represents the Italian government abroad, or through the court with POA.

This administrative path is the most common way to get Italian Citizenship by Descent, especially if you live outside of Italy. You can submit your application at the Italian Consulate under the jurisdiction of where you are a formal resident.

Path 2

Italian Court

Take it to court

File lawsuit against Italian government in Rome court

As a result of the increasing number of Americans seeking Italian Citizenship by Descent, the waiting time for a consular appointment to submit your citizenship application can often exceed two years. In such cases, you have the option to petition the court in Italy to apply directly through the court.

Path 3

1948 Cases

Take it to court

Apply from your Anchor Ancestor’s local Commune

If you fall under the 1948 Rule, you cannot apply at the Italian Consulate. For your Italian Citizenship through your mother, grandmother, or great-grandmother, etc  recognition can be only set by an Italian Judge. You can apply for the 1948 Case through the local Italian Immigration Court, based on where your Italian ancestor was born.

Italian CBD Case Example

Great-Grandfather
  • Born (in Italy):
    November 10th, 1896
  • Married (in Boston):
    April 27th, 1916
  • Naturalized as a US citizen:    September 19th, 1927

Grandfather

  • Born (in Los Angeles): March 17th, 1925
  • Married: January 11th, 1945

Mother

  • Born (Los Angeles): February 7th, 1957
  • Married (in NYC): June 13th, 1990

Applicant

  • Born (in Ohio): December, 31st 1994

Italian 1948 CBD Case Example

An example of a family line that would be able to pursue the judicial ”1948” process:

Great-Grandfather
  • Born (in Italy):
    November 10th, 1896
  • Married (in Boston):
    April 27th, 1916
  • Naturalized as a US citizen:    September 19th, 1927

Grandmother

  • Born: March 17th, 1925
  • Married: January 11th, 1945

Father

  • Born: February 7th, 1947
  • Married: June 13th, 1990

Applicant

  • Born: December, 31st 1994

In this scenario the applicant’s father was born to a female Italian citizen before 1948, therefore, a 1948 court case would be necessary since she did not have the ability at that time to pass citizenship to her son. However, due to modern rulings, this antiquated understanding has been retroactively ruled against, allowing people with this specific family situation to obtain citizenship by petitioning the Italian courts.

Path 4

Apply from Italy

Given the shortage of appointments at U.S. consulates...

Why not apply from Italy by establishing Italian residency instead?

By securing a long-term residency in Italy, eligible individuals can pursue their citizenship by descent applications from within the country. Ensuring that your residency application includes evidence of your eligibility for Italian citizenship by descent can expedite the approval process, potentially reducing it to a mere two weeks. Following the attainment of residency, you can present your citizenship by descent application at your local comune (co-MOO-nay), or Town Hall.

Global RCG’s structured timeline for Italian Citizenship by Descent vs. the Do-It-Yourself route

How long does it take to get Italian Citizenship by Descent?

Global RCG: 4-30+  Months to Citizenship

Utilizing the Global RCG Advisory services, along with our technology enabled record retrieval applications, the entire process, from initiation to completion, can span a duration of
4- 36 months, depending on the chosen path to apply under.

Italian Consulate Path- Consular appointment in the U.S
  • Vital Record Collection and Preparation: 2-4 months
  • Consular Appointment: 1-3 Years  (average wait time in US to obtain appointment)
  • Adjudication of Application after submission: 12 -16 months
    Total Time: 30 Months +
Italian Consulate to Italian Court- File lawsuit against Italian government in Rome court
  • Vital Record Collection and Preparation: 2-4 months
  • Consular Appointment/ Court Petition: 3 -6 Months (must first  obtain proof of inability to gain consular can petition court)
  • Adjudication of Application after submission: 12 -16 months
    Total Time: 18 Months +
Italian Court- 1948 Cases- Apply from the  local Commune where your AA emigrated from
  • Vital Record Collection and Preparation: 2-4 months
  • Adjudication of Application after submission in Italy: 18 -24 months
    Total Time: 20+ Months
Avoid the Line Naturalization- Establish long-term residency in Italy, apply at local Comune
  • Vital Record Collection and Preparation: 2-4 months
  • Establish Residency in Italy: 1-2 Months
  • Adjudication of Application after submission in Italy: 2-4 Months
    Total Time: 5 Months-6 Months

Documents

What documents are required to apply for Italian Citizenship by Descent?

The comprehensive set of requirements encompasses a total of ten meticulously assembled documents, each bearing the apostille certification and obligatorily translated into Italian. However, it is worth noting that, should one opt to submit their application at an Italian consulate within the United States, the translation prerequisite may be waived for select documents.

A copy of your passport and ID/driver’s license
Proof of residency
An application form
Birth certificate of the Italian ascendant born in Italy
Issued by comune in Italy.
Birth certificate of the applicant
And every relevant ancestor.
Marriage certificates
Death certificates
Divorce judgments
If applicable.
Copy of the Declaration of Intention/Petition for Naturalization
Issued by the National Archive.
Naturalization certificate
if your ancestor was naturalized in the US.
If your ancestor never naturalized, you’ll need to present two additional documents:
Copy of the census first available
Immediately after the birth in the US of the direct descent.
*depends on consulate submitting application through.
Original certificate of the nonexistence of records
if Issued by the US Citizenship and
Immigration Services

Fees and Costs

What are the Government Fees and Costs related to Italian Citizenship by Descent

Citizenship Application Processing Fee

The cost for processing your Italian dual citizenship application can very from consulate to consulate, however are generally in the range of $350-$400 USD.  This is a non-refundable fee paid directly to the Italian Consulate General.

Example: Current Fees per Detroit Consulate

  • Citizenship = €300 EUR
    • USA 🇺🇸: 💵 $321.70 USD (Detroit: $322)
    • Canada 🇨🇦: C$ 435.00 CAD

Passport Fee:

After receipt of approval of your Italian Citizenship, you may apply for your Italian Passport. The cost of an Italian passport is $145.

Example: Current Fees per Detroit Consulate

  • Passports = 116€ EUR
    • USA 🇺🇸: 💵 $124.40 USD
    • Canada 🇨🇦: C$ 169.00 CAD

How long does it take to get
Italian Citizenship by Descent?

Italian Citizenship by Descent application processing time

Free Italian Citizenship
Eligibility Assessment

Statistics

3rd largest European diaspora in the US

More tha 17 million Americans have Italian ancestry.

Over 8 million Americans could qualify

Without any generational limit, earning EU Citizenship is within the grasp of many Italian Americans.

What are the tax implications with having Italian dual Citizenship?

Italy has a residency-based tax system, meaning that anyone who spends 183 days or more in the country is considered a tax resident. This means that they are liable for taxes on their worldwide income.

However, there are a number of incentives available for new residents:

Employed and self-employed individuals can claim a 70% to 90% tax reduction on their Italian income, depending on their region of residence.

Retirees can claim a flat 7% tax rate on their non-Italian income.

High-net-worth individuals can opt for a €100,000 annual tax payment, which covers all taxation on their non-Italian income, regardless of its size

Italy is also part of the European Economic Area (EEA), which gives its citizens the right to live and work in any other EEA country, plus Switzerland.

Tax Rates in Italy

The percentage of tax you have to pay in Italy depends on the amount of money you have generated as income. In other words, the more money you have made, the higher the applicable tax percentage will be. There are also various regional and municipal taxes that you will have to pay as well — those can vary between 0.1% to 2.03%. Here is a rundown of the different state tax levels that Italian citizens have to pay per income bracket.

  • €0–€15,000 — 23% tax rate

  • €15,000–€28,000 — 27% tax rate

  • €28,000–€55,000 — 38% tax rate

  • €55,000–€75,000 — 41% tax rate

  • over €75,000 — 43% tax rate

What is the history of Italian immigration to the United States?


Between 1880 and 1921, when some 4.2 million Italians immigrated to the country, Italian immigration reached its height. About 80% of these immigrants were from the Mezzogiorno, an area in southern Italy that was experiencing significant turmoil and misery. Political tension between the government in the north and the rural peasants in the south, which had only been formally unified in 1860, grew in the 1870s after the government imposed a heavy tax on wheat and salt, which were necessities for southern farmers and fisherman. Disease decimated both cash and food crops in the 1880s; malaria and other plagues also wreaked havoc on southern Italy at this time. Additionally, several earthquakes, Mount Etna and Mount Vesuvius in the early 1900s destroyed cities and killed tens of thousands of people.

During this time, many people in southern Italy seemed to find conditions in the United States to be particularly beneficial. In the industrialized US, pay for the same task may be three times more for both skilled and unskilled workers than in the struggling Italian economy. In cities like Boston and New York, even illiterate day laborers could find better-paying employment with better working conditions. Italian immigrants from the late nineteenth century were sometimes referred to as "birds of passage"—young men who came on their own, worked hard to support their family back home and bought land before eventually returning to Italy. Many Italian immigrants did not see their departure for the United States as a rejection of their homeland. The money sent home served to maintain the established order, thus in essence, it was a defense of the Italian way of life. Instead of looking for long-term residences, they sought employment opportunities in order to build up their savings and return to their own countries in search of better lives. However, patterns of immigration shifted after World War I, and more Italian immigrants started to bring their families over and establish long-term roots in the area.

Why Italy?

Italy is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife, rich historical heritage, and artistic achievements. The country's pleasant climate and exceptional cuisine make it a desirable tourist destination. In addition to being the 3rd largest economy in Europe and the 8th largest in the world, Italy is ranked 31st out of 146 countries on the World Happiness Report 2022. Italy also ranks 14th out of 78 countries in education, putting it between Norway and Finland, according to the World Population Review.

The Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2021 ranks Italy 35th out of 134 countries, with a strong position in technical skills and retention, thanks to its leadership in Lifestyle alongside France. Finally, Italy is ranked 31st out of 167 countries for the quality of its healthcare system.

Expat Life in Italy

Italy is known for its friendly and welcoming people, making it easy for expats to form friendships. Those who choose to live in Italy enjoy a high quality of life in a relaxed and enjoyable environment, with the vivacious nature of the Italian people making life all the more interesting.

Major cities such as Rome and Milan have significant expat communities, but many Westerners opt to retire to the picturesque Italian countryside where they can spend their golden years in peace and tranquility.

Cost of Living

As a member of the European Union, Italy uses the Euro as its currency. However, its cost of living is generally higher than many other EU countries. Expats will find that living costs vary depending on the region of Italy they reside in, with a higher standard of living in the northern regions compared to the south. Milan, the most expensive city in Italy, was ranked as the 38th most expensive city in the world in the 2012 Mercer cost of living survey, dropping 13 places from the previous year, while Rome was ranked 42nd, a drop of 8 places.

Furthermore, expats considering a move to Italy should also be aware of the high income tax and social security requirements compared to other EU countries.

FAQs

Is there an Italian Citizenship 1948 Case every time there’s a woman?

No, not necessarily. Only if the woman had her child before the 1948s. If she had her child after 1948, you have an ordinary case.

Can I apply for Italian Citizenship through my grandmother?

Yes, you can. Did your grandmother have her child before 1948? Then, you can apply through the Court, as a 1948 case. If she had her child after 1948, you can apply too. In that case, you have an ordinary application. Through the Italian Consulate.

Do I have to come to Italy for my application for the Italian Citizenship 1948 Case?

No, the process will be conducted by lawyers exclusively. Thanks to the Power of Attorney you will sign.

Can your children be included?

If you apply for Italian citizenship while your children are still minors your children will automatically become Italian citizens when you are granted Italian citizenship, provided that you present certified copies of their birth certificates with an Apostille and a translation into Italian when you apply to the Italian consulate abroad or the municipality in Italy. If you are applying via a municipality in Italy a certified translation of their birth certificates will be required.

**Generally speaking, minor children do not need to be physically present on the day of your appointment at the consulate. Similarly, they may not need to be present with you when you file your application at a municipality in Italy.

What chances do I have to win the 1948 Case?

The probability of attaining Italian Citizenship via the 1948 rule in Italy is exceptionally high. Courts almost always granted Italian Citizenship 1948 Cases, and  the Italian Government is not representing itself in Court anymore, Or only in a few cases. Judges assigned to the cases were the same ones granted Citizenship in the previous issues. It’s valid in nearly all the new trials started recently.

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Citizenship by descent options

There are commonly 3 categories under which an applicant can qualify for Italian citizenship by Descent:

Direct Path: A direct path to citizenship through your ancestors, does not require any period of residency. If through your paternal line, you can submit your application at the Italian Consulate under the jurisdiction of where you are a formal resident. If you have a 1948 case, You must apply through through the local Italian Immigration Court, based on where your Italian ancestor was born.
Avoid the Consulate - apply directly in Italy: By establishing Permanent Residency in Italy, on the basis of being eligible for Citizenship by Descent, you can obtain citizenship within 2-4 months. Minimal physical presence in Italy is required.
Citizenship by Naturalization: Italian Citizenship by Residency (If you have Italian ancestors and the chain was broken). Foreigners whose ancestors were Italians by birth requires 3 years of legal residency; the same applies to individuals who were born in Italy as non-Italian citizens.
Learn more
Italian Citizenship by Descent
Obtain Italian Passport
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The first 2 options require that the “legal” connection is not lost. In the past, an Italian who became a naturalized American would lose his Italian citizenship. Therefore, he/she couldn’t pass it to one of his/her future children. Those born before his or her parents’ naturalization were Italian citizens by blood right. Additionally, if they were born in the USA, they were also American at birth. After that, it was unlikely that the connection could be broken. The process to obtain Italian citizenship can be started at an Italian consulate near you if your Italian connection comes from a male ancestor. If you have a 1948 case, or you would like to establish residency in Italy, you can apply directly in Italy. With the latter, citizenship can be obtained in a matter of months, as opposed to years through the consular paths.

Option 3 is for those with an Italian ancestors that do not qualify under the first 2 categories. The applicant will need to have 3 years of permanent residency before being able to apply for citizenship. The physical presence necessary is at least 6 months per year.

Therefore, most applicants choose the Italy Investor Visa (a.k.a. Golden Visa). This permit requires an investment ranging from €250,000 to €1m in exchange for a fragmented 5-year resident permit and no physical presence requirement. You only need to visit Italy once a year to maintain the resident permit. The naturalization process can take 1 or 2 years, making the 5-year Italian investor visa an important tool as compared to other temporary resident permits that must be renewed annually and require 6 months of physical presence in Italy.

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Capital city

Rome

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Visa free countries

Schengen Area

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Total area

301,340 km2

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Languages

Italian

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Currency

Euro €

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Population

60,317,116

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Time zone

UTC+1

Italy Map

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Freedom of movement in the European Union

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No investment requirements

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Leads topermanent residency and
Italian citizenship

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Live in an
EU country

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Italy Citizenship by Descent
Application Conditions

The process for Italian citizenship by ancestry can take a few months to a few years,
depending on the route and your eligibility.

Italy Citizenship By Descent Application Conditions

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Requirements

The regular naturalization process in Italy takes ten years of residency.
Those who qualify under Italian citizenship by descent, if their blood connection
was not broken, can either obtain their citizenship by:

1. applying for residency in Italy and then applying for citizenship at an
Italian municipality (2-4 month process)

2. petitioning an Italian court (2 year process)

3. scheduling an appointment at the nearest consulate (2-3 years)

Learn more
Italy Citizenship By Descent Application Requirements

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Other requirements:

If the blood connection was broken, there is still a path towards citizenship for
those with Italian ancestry. It will require the applicant to spend at least three
years of residence in Italy before lodging an application to be fast-tracked
towards naturalization. The naturalization process can take one or two years.

PROCESS

Application Processing Time: 3-4 Years

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STAGE 1 | YEAR 1

The process to obtain Italian citizenship by ancestry varies from one category to another. But today, both category 1 and 2 can be filed in court and be faster than the consulate route. The first step is to determine whether your Italian connection has been broken. If it hasn’t been broken, you can book an appointment at your nearest Italian consulate. It might take 2 or 3 years before you’re given an appointment, leaving you ample time to gather the relevant ancestry documents. The consulate will only accept your application if your ancestry comes from a male line. If your ancestry comes from a female line or if you want the process to go faster, you can use the 1948 ruling to petition directly to an Italian court. You can save 1 or 2 years in the process. If you need a resident permit, you can apply for one in Italy. It usually takes 1 month to receive it

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STAGE 2 | YEAR 2

If you petition the court under category 1 or 2, you’re likely to have your case approved by the court after 1 year and become an Italian citizen. If you filed your application at the consulate, you’re likely still in line to be processed, and if you needed a resident permit, you’re now waiting for another 2 years of residency to be eligible for fast-track naturalization.










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STAGE 3 | YEAR 4

If you chose the consulate route, your appointment should be coming up. If you have all the required documents, the consulate should approve your request and transmit it to the Ministry of Interior for approval. You will receive your certificate of citizenship and passport shortly. If you needed 3 years of residence, you can now apply for naturalization into Italian citizenship. It takes 1 or 2 years for the Italian authorities to process the application.








Conditions

A series of requirements must be fulfilled to apply for Italian citizenship by Descent. Check all the requirements to apply for Italian citizenship by descent.

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Italian Ancestry:
You need to provide relevant documents that prove your Italian ancestry and that the connection was not broken for claiming Italian citizenship by descent.

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Avoid the consulate, apply directly in Italy:
Proof of Italian ancestry, establish residency in Italy, apply for citizenship within a couple of months. You will need to meet the requirements relating to income, accommodation, and lack of pending suits for the purposes of the residence permit for long-term residents.•

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Police Record:
No convictions for one of the crimes provided for in Book II, Title I, Chapters I, II, and III of the Criminal Code. No convictions for an intentional crime for which the law provides for a statutory penalty of not less than 3 years of imprisonment. An oath of allegiance to the republic.

Family

The applicant’s children will automatically become Italian citizens upon confirmation. The spouse can also obtain Italian citizenship right away under category 1 and 2 if they have been married to the applicant for at least 3 years. This can be shortened to 2 years if they have lived in Italy during those 2 years. The spouses of those who gain Italian citizenship under category 3 will have to wait 3 more years before applying for naturalization.

Do you qualify for Italian citizenship?

Take a free eligibility test today! Your eligibility for ancestry-based citizenship will be determined within 48 hours by the internal genealogy team at Global RCG.

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Application Process

Learn more
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Week 1

Verify eligibility

Subheading two

Week 2

Start client onboarding process
with Global RCG

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Week 3

Global RCG helps you gather the required documents with the help of our genealogist.

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Week 8

Application for citizenship is filed. Depending on your case, the process can take six months if it's lodged at a municipality, 12 to 16 months if petitioned in an Italian court, 2 to 3 years if scheduled at a consulate, and 5 to 6 years via the residency route if your Italian blood connection was broken.

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How to obtain your Italian Dual Citizenship in as little as 4-6 Months

What is the Step-by-Step Process?

In collaboration with our qualified team of Italian professionals, we develop a fully comprehensive package and process for recognition of Italian citizenship in a dynamic and efficient way. We oversee and accompany you at every step of the process.

Step 1: Documentation and Preparation

Collect all essential vital records, meticulously prepare the application, and ensure that all documentation within the client's application packet is appropriately authenticated and translated.

Step 2: Preliminary Evaluation of Application by Italian Comune Clerk

Before embarking on your journey to Italy for the final submission, we facilitate an "application pre-assessment" process. This entails sending your complete file to our dedicated Italian Team, who will present it to the local municipality for a comprehensive review of your application and accompanying documentation. The Clerk will conduct a thorough assessment, identifying any potential areas for improvement or the need for additional supporting documents, if necessary. By gaining insight into any necessary adjustments ahead of time and having the opportunity to rectify them prior to the final submission, you can potentially save months, if not years, in your quest to obtain dual citizenship.

Step 3: Travel to Italy

Upon addressing any document or application requirements identified during the preliminary evaluation, you are now prepared to initiate the process in Italy. The legislation permits you to enter Italy as a tourist and establish residency specifically for the purpose of applying for Italian citizenship jure sanguinis. At this stage, the administrative process commences, with our competent staff presenting the duly completed documentation to the relevant Italian government authorities at the municipality of your chosen residence. Throughout the procedures in Italy, our dedicated team will accompany you, providing valuable support, including acting as interpreters, among other responsibilities.

Step 4: “Codice Fiscale” (Tax Code)  and “Dichiarazione di Presenza” (Declaration of Presence on Arrival)

Depending on your flight path to Italy, it may be necessary to complete a "dichiarazione di presenza" (declaration of presence) to inform the Italian government about your arrival.

This entails submitting an official statement to the local immigration office within 8 days from the date of your arrival.To expedite the process and avoid lengthy waits at the immigration office of the Police Headquarters for the declaration of presence, it is highly recommended that your flight is either directly bound for Italy or includes a layover at an airport located outside the Schengen area. If your flight is direct, we have the ability to notify the entry of non-European citizens directly from our office, eliminating the need for you to personally visit the immigration office.

Step 5: Establish residency & Local Police Verification

Establish residency within our preferred comune, sign a regular lease agreement for residential use at one of our high-end, fully furnished, well-equipped residential properties.The local police will conduct a verification process to confirm your actual residence at the declared property.

According to legal requirements, the local police have a maximum of 45 days to carry out this verification at the location where you established your residency. However, in most cases it will be carried out within a week or two. This verification process typically lasts a brief five minutes, and they call ahead of time to let you know when they will be coming.

Step 6: Application for citizenship

Once you have successfully established your residency, the next step towards obtaining citizenship involves making a formal application through the designated citizenship office, typically situated within the city hall. During this stage, you will be required to provide all the necessary documentation to support your citizenship claim and allow the clerk ample time to assess your case.

The clerk, with utmost diligence, will meticulously examine each document you have submitted and collaborate with the consulates abroad that hold authority over the regions where these documents originated. This collaboration serves the purpose of investigating whether you or any of your ancestors have previously renounced Italian citizenship. It is important to note that this aspect of the process is generally more of a customary procedure, with less stringent implications.

Step 7: Residence Permit Application: (“permesso di soggiorno in attesa di cittadinanza”)"

Upon submitting your application for dual citizenship, it becomes imperative to pursue a distinct residency permit that aligns with your dual citizenship aspirations. This need arises primarily because the citizenship acquisition process often extends beyond the permitted 90-day timeframe, which applies to non-European individuals residing in Europe, including Italy. Obtaining this residency permit is essential, as it enables you to remain in Italy beyond the prescribed 90-day limit, ensuring uninterrupted residency as you embark upon your journey towards dual citizenship.

Step 8: Granting of Citizenship and Obtaining a Italian Passport

After the formal acquisition of citizenship, you are entitled to directly apply for an Italian passport within the confines of Italy. Alternatively, you have the option to enroll in the AIRE registry (Registry of Italian Citizens Residing Abroad) and proceed with your citizenship application at the nearest Italian consulate in your home country. Both avenues present viable paths for securing the privileges and rights that come with Italian citizenship.

Italian Dual Citizenship with the Global RCG Advantage 

So, you can't get an appointment at an Italian Consulate? 

Our tailored service is designed exclusively for Italian Americans, providing a seamless and worry-free path to acquiring Italian citizenship. Say goodbye to the long waits at American Italian Embassies and embrace a streamlined journey towards becoming an Italian citizen.

Determine Your Eligibility - Free of Charge

Curious if you qualify for Italian citizenship? Our team of experts is here to help. With our advanced eligibility assessment tools, we can quickly and accurately determine your eligibility for Italian citizenship. Best of all, this service is completely free! Take the first step towards uncovering your Italian heritage without any obligations or hidden costs.

Obtain Required Documentation with Ease

Navigating the documentation process for Italian citizenship can be overwhelming. That's where we come in. Our dedicated professionals will assist you in obtaining all the necessary documentation for becoming an Italian citizen. From birth certificates to marriage records, we handle the paperwork while you focus on embracing your Italian heritage.

Mitigation of Discrepancy-related Delays

In many instances, after enduring months, and in some cases, even years of anticipation for a consular verdict on your Italian citizenship application, it's common to receive a notification highlighting "discrepancies" present within your application, necessitating subsequent rectification. This scenario, at a minimum, could introduce an additional delay of approximately 6-12 months to the overall timeline. Through our proficiency in facilitating a preliminary assessment of your application by a local Italian clerk prior to its final submission, we effectively mitigate any prospect of encountering the hindrances posed by discrepancy-related delays.

Language Assistance and Guided Appointments

Applying for Italian citizenship in a foreign country can be daunting, especially when language barriers come into play. However, with us, you can put those worries to rest. Our Italian colleagues will accompany you to all your Italian appointments, acting as your language bridge and ensuring smooth communication every step of the way. Say goodbye to language barriers and embrace a stress-free application process.

Financial Transparency - Your Home Away from Home

Establishing residency in Italy should be an experience of clarity and peace of mind. That's why we own our own apartments throughout Italy. When you choose our service, you can rest assured that you know exactly where you will stay and what to expect. Our apartments provide the perfect sanctuary during your residency establishment, ensuring complete financial transparency and removing any uncertainties.

Embrace Your Italian Heritage Today

Don't let the opportunity slip away to reconnect with your Italian roots and become an Italian citizen. Our dedicated team is ready to simplify the process for you. Determine your eligibility, entrust us with the documentation process, and apply directly in Italy with confidence. Experience the joy of calling Italy your second home. Get started on your Italian citizenship journey today!

Can I apply on my own?

The Do-It-Yourself Route (DIY):  30-48 Months

Adds 6 to 24 months to the process

  • If DIY simply added 4 to 5 hours more of work, that's one thing but....What if I told you that the DIY route automatically adds no less than 6 months, and more likely 1-2 years to the process?
  • With the perpetual learning curve of how and what actions to take, coupled with the inclusion of superfluous steps resulting from a deficient grasp of the government's true requirements, the majority of self-directed endeavors endure an additional six-month delay in the completion of their applications.

Delays compound on each other

  • During the additional six months DIYers spend preparing their own petitions, hundreds of qualified applicants will have filed their applications before you, making your wait that much longer
  • If you make a single mistake, and are denied as a result you have to go back to the end of the queue for obtaining another consulate appointment. This in itself could add 2+ years to the process.

Citizenship by Naturalization

Italian Citizenship by Residency (If you have Italian Ancestors and the chain was broken) Foreigners whose ancestors were Italians by birth requires 3 years of legal residency; the same applies to individuals who were born in Italy as non-Italian citizens.