Jure Sanguinis
Italian jure sanguinis is the right of Italian citizenship by descent. It is a principle of Italian nationality law that allows anyone who can prove Italian ancestry to be eligible for Italian citizenship.
Jure sanguinis is a Latin term that means “by right of blood.” It is the opposite of jure soli, which is the right of citizenship by place of birth. In the United States, for example, anyone born in the United States is automatically a U.S. citizen, regardless of their parent’s nationality. In Italy, however, citizenship is determined by blood, not by place of birth.
To be eligible for Italian citizenship by descent, you must meet the following requirements:
You must prove that you have at least one Italian ancestor.
Your Italian ancestor must have been born in Italy or have acquired Italian citizenship by naturalization.
You must not have renounced your Italian citizenship.
If you meet these requirements, you can apply for Italian citizenship by descent through the Italian consulate in your country of residence. The process of applying for Italian citizenship by descent can be complex, so it is essential to consult an immigration attorney who can help you understand the requirements and the process.
There are many benefits to having Italian citizenship. Some of the most important benefits include:
The ability to live, work, and study in any EU country.
The right to travel visa-free to most countries in the world.
Access to the Italian healthcare system.
The right to vote in Italian elections and to hold public office.
Suppose you believe that you may be eligible for Italian citizenship by descent. In that case, I encourage you to contact an immigration attorney who can help you understand the requirements and the process.
Here is a more detailed explanation of the requirements for Italian citizenship by descent:
Proof of Italian ancestry
To prove your Italian ancestry, you must provide documentation showing your connection to an Italian ancestor. This documentation can include birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, and naturalization certificates.
Italian ancestors born in Italy
Your Italian ancestor must have been born in Italy to be eligible for Italian citizenship by descent. If your Italian ancestor were born outside of Italy, you would not qualify for Italian citizenship by descent.
Italian ancestors acquired Italian citizenship by naturalization
If your Italian ancestor was born outside of Italy, they may still be eligible to transmit Italian citizenship to you if they acquired Italian citizenship by naturalization. However, specific requirements must be met for your Italian ancestor to transfer Italian citizenship to you through naturalization. These requirements include:
Your Italian ancestor must have been naturalized before January 1, 1948.
Your Italian ancestor must have been born before January 1, 1948.
Your Italian ancestor must have lived in Italy for at least five years before naturalization.
Renunciation of Italian citizenship
If you have ever renounced your Italian citizenship, you will not be eligible for Italian citizenship by descent. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule. For example, if you renounced your Italian citizenship before you turned 18 years old, you may still be eligible for Italian citizenship by descent.
The process of applying for Italian citizenship by descent
The process of applying for Italian citizenship by descent can be complex. It is important to consult with an immigration attorney who can help you understand the requirements and the process.
The first step in the process is to gather the required documentation. This documentation will vary depending on your specific situation. However, some of the documents that you may need to provide include:
Your birth certificate
Your parents’ birth certificates
Your grandparents’ birth certificates
Your Italian ancestor’s birth certificate
Your Italian ancestor’s naturalization certificate (if applicable)
Once you have gathered the required documentation, you must apply to the Italian consulate in your country of residence. The application process can take several months, so submitting your application as soon as possible is essential.
If your application is approved, you will be granted Italian citizenship. You will then be able to enjoy all the benefits of being an Italian citizen.