Get Your Italy Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
Let us make your citizenship journey simpler. With step-by-step guides and our AI assistant to help you understand eligibility, we give you clarity, confidence, and support every step of the way.
Eligibility Overview
- By Descent (Jure Sanguinis): You may qualify for Italian citizenship if you have an Italian ancestor who did not lose their Italian citizenship before the next person in your family line was born.
There is no generational limit, but two major exceptions apply:
Maternal line before 1948: Children born to an Italian mother before Jan 1, 1948 must apply through a 1948 court case.
Ancestor naturalized before 1992: If an Italian ancestor became a citizen of another country before Aug 15, 1992, they lost Italian citizenship, breaking the line unless the next child was already born at that time.
- By Marriage: Spouses of Italian citizens can apply for citizenship: After 2 years of marriage while living in Italy, After 3 years of marriage when living abroad. These times are cut in half if the couple has children together Civil unions are recognized
- By Residency (Naturalization): Foreign nationals can apply for Italian citizenship after:
10 years of legal residence in Italy (standard rule), 4 years for EU citizens, 5 years for stateless persons and refugees
- Special Exception: People of Italian descent born abroad who did not automatically acquire citizenship at birth may be eligible for naturalization after 3 years of legal residency in Italy.
- Dual Citizenship Allowed: Italy fully allows dual and multiple citizenship.
You do not need to give up another nationality.
Step-by-Step Process
- Identify your eligibility path: descent, marriage, or residency.
- Gather supporting documents (birth certificates, marriage records, proof of lineage or residency).
- Submit your application at an Italian consulate (if abroad) or local town hall (if in Italy).
- Complete background checks and language test (for marriage and residency paths).
- Receive your citizenship certificate and apply for an Italian passport.
Benefits of Italian Citizenship
- Live and work anywhere in the European Union
- Pass Italian citizenship to future generations
- Hold dual citizenship — no need to renounce your current nationality
- Access Italy’s healthcare and education systems
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 190+ countries with an Italian passport
Frequently asked questions.
Does Italy allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Italy permits dual and multiple citizenships. You don’t have to give up your other nationality to become Italian.
Can I apply for Italian citizenship through my grandparents?
Yes. Italy allows jure sanguinis applications through grandparents or even great-grandparents. The key requirement is that no ancestor in the chain renounced Italian citizenship before their child was born.
Can I get Italian citizenship through marriage?
Yes. Spouses of Italian citizens can apply after 2 years of marriage (or 1.5 years with children). Civil unions are recognized. You must pass a B1-level Italian language test.
Does Italy recognize same-sex unions for citizenship?
Yes. Since 2016, Italy legally recognizes same-sex civil unions, and foreign partners can apply for citizenship under the same timeline as married spouses.
Do I have to pay taxes in both countries?
Italy taxes residents on worldwide income. Non-residents are only taxed on Italian-sourced income. Tax treaties may prevent double taxation. Consult a financial advisor for your specific case.