Do I need to live in Italy the entire time before applying?

Yes. Continuous legal residency is mandatory for the required period.

Is the B1 language test mandatory?

Yes. All adult applicants through residency must provide a B1 Italian language certificate.

Can time on a student visa count towards residency?

No. Time spent on a student visa generally does not count toward the residency requirement.

Service

Citizenship by Residency

From resident to citizen we make every step count.

Check your eligibility Talk to us

Overview

Understanding the Residency Path to Italian Citizenship

Italian law allows non-EU residents to apply for citizenship after a set period of legal residence:

✓10 years for most foreign nationals
✓4 years for EU citizens
✓3 years for those with an Italian parent/grandparent or born in Italy

How it works

THE CTZN's 3-Step Approach to Residency-Based Citizenship

Verify Eligibility

We confirm your residency years, review your permits, and ensure you meet all legal criteria.

Prepare & Comply

We check all supporting documents from proof of income to background checks.

Draft & Follow Through

We draft your application, monitor municipal progress, and respond to any requests for additional documents until approval.

What You Must Prove

Applicants must prove:

Continuous legal residency
Clean criminal record
Financial self-sufficiency

Avoid the Pitfalls of Residency Applications

Gaps in residency registration
Incorrect or expired background checks
Language certificate not meeting the legal B1 requirement
Delays caused by incomplete or non-compliant submissions

Your Residency Case, Managed Start to Finish

Specialized in both US-based and in-Italy residency applicants
Legal representation for appeals in case of denial
Transparent, flat-fee pricing with a clear, realistic timeline

How Long Does It Take?

Residency requirement: 3, 10 years, depending on your category
From application to approval: typically 2, 4 years (varies by municipality)

Frequently Asked Questions

Have Any Questions?

Citizenship by Residency FAQs

Yes. Continuous legal residency is mandatory for the required period.
Yes. All adult applicants through residency must provide a B1 Italian language certificate.
No. Time spent on a student visa generally does not count toward the residency requirement.

Information on this page is provided for general guidance and is based on Law 74/2025 (GU n.118, 23‑05‑2025; in force 24‑05‑2025). Eligibility depends on your specific circumstances. We do not guarantee outcomes.

Keep exploring