Are You Eligible For Italian Citizenship By Descent?

Collage of the Florence duomo cathedral and a venice canal

What Are The Benefits Of Italian Citizenship?

Acquiring Italian citizenship provides unrestricted access to live, work, and study in Italy and the greater EU. You'll no longer need to worry about securing a work visa or a Golden Visa—as an Italian citizen, you can live in Italy for as long as you'd like!

In addition to deepening your connection to your ancestral roots, Italian citizenship can be passed down to future generations, securing a lasting bond to this beautiful country and culture.

Jure Sanguinis Italian Citizenship Quiz

Curious if you can get Italian citizenship through your grandmother, great-grandparents, or another ancestor? Take this quiz to find out!

Note: The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice.

FAQs

How much does it cost to get Italian citizenship by descent?

The cost of getting Italian citizenship by descent can vary greatly depending on your ancestral line, place of residence, and whether you apply in Italy or another country. An applicant with an “easy” line (one that does not require a lawyer for a 1948 case) might expect to spend anywhere from $200 to $2000 USD in total for documents, translations, apostilles, fees, and various transportation costs.

If your case requires an Italian lawyer, the total cost might be higher.

How long does it take to get Italian citizenship by descent?

If you're applying outside of Italy, the time it takes to get Italian citizenship by descent depends on your ancestral line and the location of your nearest Italian consulate. An applicant with a straightforward line, who lives in a district served by a “fast” consulate, might be recognized as a citizen in 1 to 3 years.

The process can be expedited by applying directly in Italy.

Can I apply for Italian citizenship in Italy directly?

Yes! Applying for Italian citizenship by descent directly in Italy is the fastest way to be recognized and can take just a few months. For more details about this process, visit dualusitalian.com/applying-in-italy/.

Are there any disadvantages to getting dual Italian citizenship?

No, not for the vast majority of jure sanguinis applicants. Many countries are accepting of dual citizenship, and you will not be required to file taxes in Italy unless you move there and establish residency.

However, if you work in a sector that requires a high level of security clearance, you should verify that it's okay to pursue dual citizenship.

Can I apply for Italian citizenship through my great-grandparents?

Yes! There is no generational limit for claiming Italian citizenship by descent as long as your ancestral line meets the requirements.

How expensive is a 1948 case with an Italian lawyer?

Depending on your lineage, a 1948 case can cost between $3.5k-$8k USD. Other eligible family members in your line can join the case in order to split the costs.

About

Circular images of Portofino, Toscana, and Venezia.

Hi! My name is Stephanie, and I successfully applied for Italian citizenship by descent in 2019. I currently work in Milan as a web developer, and I built this site to help other people with Italian ancestry determine if they are eligible.

If you're interested in moving to Italy, check out my new blog, layoverinitaly.com!