Citizenship by Descent: the pathway to obtaining citizenship in Italy through descent

Acquisition of Italian Citizenship by Descent

Italian Citizenship Law No. 91 of 5/2/1992 states that Italian citizenship is transmitted by descent, according to the principle of iure sanguinis.

Descendants by Paternal Line

To protect the children of Italian emigrants, it is necessary to prove an Italian (male) ancestor without generation limitation.

Descendants by Maternal Line

As of 1/1/1948, the principle of Iure sanguinis also applies to descendants by maternal derivation, with some exceptions requiring recourse to the Court.

Competent Authorities and Required Documents

• Italian Consulate/Embassy: For residents abroad.
• Municipal Registrar’s Office: For residents of Italy.

Required Documentation

• Extract of birth certificate of Italian ancestor who emigrated abroad.
• Deed of marriage and death of Italian ancestor.
• Birth, marriage, and death records of all descendants.
• Certificates regarding foreign citizenship.
• Separation or divorce judgments (if applicable).

Alternative Procedure: the court appeal

If there is a long waiting list at the Consulate, it is possible to appeal to the court in Italy to obtain a citizenship ruling more quickly.

Civil Registration in Italy

Those who wish to apply for citizenship in Italy can speed up the process by applying directly to their municipality of residence.

Services Offered

Parisi Law Firm offers assistance and advice in the process of acquiring citizenship iure sanguinis, either by appealing to the court or by applying to the municipality of residence in Italy. The service is offered to all citizens residing in Italy and abroad.

Contact us today to begin your path to Italian citizenship!