Italian Citizenship Laws

Italian citizenship law is based on the principle of jus sanguinis, which means that citizenship is acquired by birth through blood ties. This contrasts the idea of jus soli, which means that citizenship is acquired by birth through place of birth.
Under Italian law, anyone born to an Italian parent is automatically an Italian citizen, regardless of birthplace. This is true even if the child is born outside of Italy.
Italian citizenship can also be acquired through naturalization. To be eligible for naturalization, a person must meet specific requirements, such as living in Italy for a particular time and having primary Italian language and culture knowledge.
Italian citizenship can be lost under certain circumstances, such as by renouncing citizenship or serving in another country’s military.

  • 1861 – Italian Unification: Law on Citizenship
  • 1865 – Italian Civil Code of 1865
  • 1912 – Law no. 555/1912: Law on Citizenship
  • 1920 – Annexation of Northern Italian Territories
  • 1922 – The Cable Act (USA)
  • 1975 – Sentence n. 87 of 1975: Italian Age of Majority
  • 1983 – Sentence n. 30 of 1983: Automatic Citizenship for Foreign Women by Marriage
  • 1992 – Law no. 91/1992 – Italy Allows Dual Citizenship
  • 2000 – Granting of Citizenship to former Austro-Hungarian Empire
  • 2006 – Istria, Fiume and Dalmatia
  • 2009 – Law no. 555/1912: The Italian Republic and Women’s Rights to Pass Citizenship
  • 2018 – Security Decree (Decreto di Sicurezza)
  • 2021 – Law no. 206/2021: The Italian Republic and Women’s Rights to Pass Citizenship

Here is a more detailed explanation of Italian citizenship laws:
Acquisition of Italian citizenship
Two main ways to acquire Italian citizenship are by birth and naturalization.
Acquisition of Italian citizenship by birth
Anyone born to an Italian parent is automatically an Italian citizen, regardless of birthplace. This is true even if the child is born outside of Italy.
The Italian parent must be an Italian citizen at the time of the child’s birth. If the Italian parent acquires citizenship after birth, the child will not automatically become an Italian citizen.
Acquisition of Italian citizenship by naturalization
To be eligible for naturalization, a person must meet specific requirements, such as:

  • Living in Italy for at least five years
  • Having a basic knowledge of the Italian language and culture
  • Being of good moral character

The process of naturalization can be complex and time-consuming. It is essential to consult with an immigration attorney who can help you understand the requirements and the process.
Loss of Italian citizenship
Italian citizenship can be lost under certain circumstances, such as:

  • Renouncing citizenship
  • Serving in the military of another country
  • Being convicted of certain crimes

If you are unsure whether you have lost your Italian citizenship, it is essential to consult with an immigration attorney who can help you understand the law.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is allowed in Italy. This means that you can be a citizen of Italy and another country at the same time.
If you are considering applying for Italian citizenship, it is crucial to be aware of the dual citizenship laws of your other country. Some countries do not allow dual citizenship, and if you acquire Italian citizenship, you may be required to renounce your citizenship of your other country.
Conclusion
Italian citizenship laws are complex and can be challenging to understand. If you are considering applying for Italian citizenship, it is essential to consult with an immigration attorney who can help you understand the requirements and the process.

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