Changes to Italian nationality rules: latest developments
At the end of March, Giorgia Meloni's government issued a decree, known as the Tajani Decree, which tightened the rules for obtaining Italian nationality by ius sanguinis (descent).
After a debate not without controversy, on May 20 the Chamber of Deputies approved the law, which, in simple terms, restricts obtaining nationality only to children and grandchildren of Italians born in the country, who have not renounced their Italian nationality.
For many opposition politicians, the decree was unconstitutional, as it denies the right to citizenship to thousands of people: it is estimated that more than 80 million people of Italian descent are scattered throughout the world. 1,3 million of them live in our country.
Italian nationality by jus sanguinis: consequences of the decree
The first and most obvious effect is to exclude great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren from nationality, who until this rule could opt for it without limitations.
For those already in the process of naturalization, the final wording of the decree offered a small reprieve. If the application, with complete documentation, was submitted before March 27, 2025, and before 11:59 p.m. Rome time , it will continue to be processed according to the old law.
This cut-off date also benefits those who had their consular appointment already assigned on March 27, even if the appointment was scheduled for later.
The Argentine newspaper Clarín reports that, according to unofficial figures, between 40.000 and 60.000 applications for Italian citizenship are currently being processed in the neighboring country. Most of these applications are from great-grandchildren.
The Tajani decree also introduces the requirement of an “effective link” with Italy. This can include legal residence in the country for at least two years before the birth of the child claiming citizenship, or participation in civic activities, such as voting or renewing Italian documents every 25 years.
Finally, citizenship applications will no longer be processed at consulates, but will be centralized in a dedicated office in Rome. This office is expected to be fully operational by 2026.
Other paths to Italian nationality
It is important to note that obtaining nationality through marriage, as well as for minor children, remains unchanged.
In the case of marriage, proof of a relationship of at least three years is required if the couple lives outside of Italy, or two years if they reside in the country. If the couple has children, these periods are halved.
As for minor children of Italian citizens, they acquire citizenship if one of the parents declares their intention to transmit it. Citizenship is acquired automatically if this declaration is made before the child turns one year old. Otherwise, two years of continuous legal residence in Italy are required.
For great-grandchildren or great-great-grandchildren who were unable to begin any procedures before March 27, there is an option. They must establish legal residence in an Italian municipality, obtaining a permesso di soggiorno (residence permit ) for two years.
After this period, they can apply for citizenship. However, they must still prove their descent relationship, as well as meet the other requirements established by law.
AIM Global advises you on how to obtain Italian nationality
As we have seen, the chances of obtaining Italian citizenship have been significantly restricted following the Tajani decree. However, not all doors have been closed.
The professionals at AIM Global are ready to help you choose the most convenient option for you and your family.
Schedule a meeting with us to advise you on your Italian nationality process.
