Key Changes to Italian Citizenship Law: What You Need to Know

The Law No. 74 of May 23, 2025, which converted with amendments Decree-Law No. 36 of March 28, 2025, has introduced major updates to Italian citizenship regulations. These changes amend the framework established by Law No. 91 of February 5, 1992, with a focus on:

• Citizenship for those born abroad
• Citizenship by law
• New limits on citizenship by descent
• Reopening of reacquisition rights for those who lost citizenship before August 16, 1992

Below is a breakdown of the most important updates.

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Citizenship for Those Born Abroad

Article 3-bis, Paragraph 1, Letter c)

The rules for automatic transmission of Italian citizenship (including jure sanguinis) have been restricted but not abolished.

Key points:

1. Generational Limitation
   • Citizenship by descent is now limited to second-degree relatives (parents or grandparents).
   • Claims through great-grandparents or more distant ancestors are no longer valid.
2. Nationality Restriction
   • The ancestor through whom citizenship is claimed must have been exclusively Italian.
   • If the ancestor held dual nationality (e.g., Italian and American), transmission of citizenship through them is not permitted.

⚠️ Applicants must also prove that the line of transmission remained unbroken through the parent.

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Article 3-bis, Paragraph 1, Letter d)

Another new pathway has been introduced:

• A child may acquire Italian citizenship if their parent or adoptive parent (adoption must have occurred while the child was still a minor) has lived in Italy for at least two continuous years after obtaining Italian citizenship and before the child’s birth or adoption.

This emphasizes the importance of establishing ties to Italy in the citizenship process.

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What Does This Mean for Applicants?

These reforms signal Italy’s effort to balance heritage with integration.

• The principle of jure sanguinis remains, but its scope is narrower.
• Descendants seeking recognition must now meet stricter requirements regarding generation limits and ancestor nationality status.
• Families with dual-nationality ancestors may face new barriers to eligibility.
• Those whose parents resided in Italy before their birth may now benefit from a new path to recognition.

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Final Thoughts

If you are considering applying for Italian citizenship:

• Carefully evaluate whether your claim fits within the new generational and nationality limits.
• Review whether your parents’ or grandparents’ residency in Italy can support your case.
• Keep in mind that reacquisition opportunities for those who lost citizenship before 1992 have also been reopened, offering additional possibilities.

Understanding these updates is crucial before beginning your application. The new law reshapes access to Italian citizenship, ensuring stronger links between heritage and the modern Italian community.