Italy has tightened its citizenship laws, making it harder for descendants of Italians abroad to claim nationality under the principle of ius sanguinis, or “right of blood.” The reform, championed by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, aims to curb what he describes as “abuses” while simplifying the process for those with closer ties to Italy.
Under the new law, individuals seeking Italian citizenship must prove direct lineage to at least one grandparent or parent born in Italy. Previously, anyone with an Italian ancestor—no matter how distant—could apply.
“This decree supports return migration,” Tajani said. “Italian descendants will automatically acquire citizenship if they are born in Italy or if, before their birth, one of their citizen parents has resided continuously in our country for at least two years.” He also reassured that those who have already obtained citizenship or applied before the March 27 deadline will retain their status.
The move seeks to relieve administrative pressure on Italian municipalities and consulates, which have been inundated with citizenship applications, particularly from Brazil and Venezuela—countries with significant Italian diaspora populations. Tajani noted that Argentina saw citizenship recognitions surge from 20,000 in 2023 to 30,000 the following year, while Brazil’s numbers jumped from 14,000 in 2022 to 20,000 in 2023. “This reform is about protecting Italian citizens abroad—the true Italian citizens abroad,” he emphasized.
Alongside the decree, two additional bills have been introduced. One requires Italian descendants to actively exercise their citizenship rights at least once every 25 years—such as voting, renewing a passport, or paying taxes—to maintain their status. Furthermore, individuals born abroad must register their birth certificate in Italy before turning 25, or they will lose eligibility for citizenship. Children born to Italian parents outside Italy will still be eligible but must reside in the country for at least two years, subject to a formal declaration by their parents.
The second bill overhauls the application process, transferring responsibilities from consulates to a centralized office at the Foreign Ministry. Consulates will focus on serving existing Italian citizens rather than processing new applications. Fees for citizenship applications have also increased, rising from €300 to €600 (about $650 at current exchange rates) in January, with an expected jump to €700. “Italian citizenship carries great responsibility and must be granted with due seriousness,” Tajani said. He also warned that stricter regulations aim to prevent the commercialization of Italian passports.
When asked whether these rules would affect naturalized athletes such as former Argentine footballer Mauro Camoranesi, Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi declined to comment on specific cases but assured that “preferential paths” remain for individuals with sporting merit.
