New Italian Citizenship Law: What Has Changed

Starting in 2025, significant changes have come into effect regarding the rules for obtaining Italian citizenship. The main objective of the reform is to safeguard the value of citizenship and ensure it is granted only to individuals with a genuine connection to Italy.

Limitations to the Principle of Ius Sanguinis

Citizenship is no longer automatically passed down beyond the second generation. Only children and grandchildren of Italian citizens now have a direct right to citizenship. Great-grandchildren or more distant descendants must now meet additional requirements.

Language Proficiency Requirement

To obtain citizenship, applicants must now hold a certificate proving at least a B1 level of proficiency in the Italian language. In our Italian Language School this can be done via CELI or CILS exam. This requirement applies both to applicants residing abroad and to those living in Italy.

Need for a Genuine Connection with Italy

Individuals born and living outside of Italy must demonstrate a real and ongoing connection to the country. This may include participating in civic activities or maintaining other documented forms of engagement with the Italian state within a maximum period of 25 years.

Centralization of Application Processing of Italian Citizenship Requests

Citizenship applications are no longer handled by Italian consulates. Instead, a newly established centralized office will manage all requests. The goal is to streamline procedures and improve the overall efficiency of the system.

Increase in Application Fees

The application fee for citizenship recognition has increased from €300 to €600, with a planned further rise to €700.

Conclusion on the new rules for Italian Citizenship

The new rules make access to Italian citizenship more selective, focusing on quality and genuine belonging to the Italian community. Anyone planning to apply should review the updated requirements carefully and ensure they are fully prepared with the proper documentation.