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