Important Updates for Citizenship Applicants: How the New Law Affects Pending Applications

The recent changes in Italian citizenship law include transitional provisions designed to protect applicants who were already in the process before the new rules came into effect. Specifically, Article 3-bis of Law 91/1992, as amended, ensures continuity for individuals who filed their applications or received confirmed appointments prior to the implementation of the updated regulations.

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What Happens to Applicants Who Filed Before the New Rules Came Into Effect?

Applicants who submitted their applications or received official appointment confirmations by March 27, 2025, at 23:59 (Rome time) will continue to be evaluated under the previous rules.

This includes the interpretation provided by the Supreme Court of Cassation regarding the application of Articles 7 and 12 of Law 555/1912, as referenced in the Ministry of the Interior Circular No. 43347 of October 3, 2024.

⚠️ Important: only applicants with a confirmed appointment (not just placed on a waiting list) are covered by these exceptions.

These applicants must still submit all required documentation; failure to do so will result in the rejection of the application.

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What Documentation Is Required?

The required documents remain unchanged and follow the guidelines established by the Ministry of the Interior Circular K28.1 of April 8, 1991, as published on the official Embassy websites.

Applicants must provide complete and accurate records to prevent delays or outright rejection.

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Special Case for Minor Children

A key exception applies to minor children:

• If by March 27, 2025, an Italian citizen submitted a request for the transcription of the child’s birth certificate, that request will still be processed under the old law.
• Furthermore, Article 1, Paragraph 1-ter of Decree Law 36/2025 specifies that, for minors covered by Article 3-bis of Law 91/1992, parents may submit the declaration of citizenship acquisition until May 31, 2026.

This ensures families already in the process are not penalized by the new framework.

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What Happens If the Child Becomes an Adult?

If a child reaches adulthood before the process concludes, the transitional provisions allow parents to still file a declaration within the deadline (May 31, 2026). However, once of age, the child retains the right to accept or renounce Italian citizenship according to the new legal framework.

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Fees for Citizenship Declarations

As with all citizenship procedures, a consular fee of €250 per minor applies.

• If both parents submit separate declarations, the fee is due again at the time of the second submission.

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In Summary

These transitional rules are meant to provide fairness and continuity:

• Applicants with confirmed appointments before March 27, 2025 remain under the old law.
• Minor children benefit from extended flexibility, with deadlines stretching until May 2026.
• All applicants must provide full documentation to avoid rejection.

For families and individuals navigating this process, staying informed, timely, and thorough is essential to ensure a smooth path to recognition of Italian citizenship.