New Italian Citizenship Law 2025 | Coppolaw

Italy’s citizenship rules are changing. With the publication of the Decree-Law No. 36 2025, the Italian government has introduced significant reforms that impact those seeking Italian citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis) and other common routes.

Whether you’re applying from abroad or already navigating the process, understanding the implications of this new law is essential. Here’s what the new Italian citizenship law means for applicants in 2025 and beyond.

What Is Decree-Law No. 36/2025?

Published in the Italian Official Gazette on March 28, 2025, Decreto-Legge n. 36/2025 introduces changes to the procedures, timelines, and eligibility criteria for acquiring Italian citizenship, particularly for descendants of Italian citizens (cittadinanza per discendenza or jure sanguinis).

This new law is part of a broader governmental effort to streamline citizenship recognition, reduce administrative backlog, and establish clearer standards.

The main change is that you may now qualify for Italian citizenship if:

• You have a parent or adoptive parent who is an Italian citizen born in Italy.

• You have a parent or adoptive parent who is an Italian citizen and was a resident in Italy for at least two consecutive years prior to your birth or adoption.

• You have a grandparent (first-degree ascendant) who is an Italian citizen born in Italy.

This represents a significant shift, as eligibility is no longer extended to any Italian ancestor, but is now limited to more immediate family connections.

Other info

1. Stricter Documentation Requirements

Applicants will be required to provide more comprehensive documentation proving uninterrupted Italian lineage. This includes:

• Certified translations and apostilles for foreign documents

• Proof that no ancestor ever renounced Italian citizenship prior to the birth of the next in line

2. Residency Pathways Revised

Those applying through residency-based routes will face new minimum residency thresholds and possibly language proficiency requirements.

3. Possibility of Retroactive Impact

Some cases currently under review may be reassessed under the new rules. If you’re already in the process, it’s advisable to consult a qualified Italian immigration lawyer.

This decree affects:

• Descendants of Italian citizens abroad

• Applicants seeking citizenship by marriage

• Individuals applying for citizenship through long-term residence

If you’re in the process or planning to apply for Italian citizenship, you must check whether your case falls under the new requirements.

The decree has immediate legal effect but must be converted into law by Parliament within 60 days. However, in practice, some of its provisions are already being enforced, especially by consulates.

What You Can Do Now

1. Review your documentation carefully

2. Consult a citizenship lawyer to assess whether your case is still valid under the new rules

3. If needed, sign a declaration of withdrawal for ongoing applications (as some consulates may require)

4. Act quickly — future modifications or deadlines may limit eligibility further

The 2025 Italian Citizenship Law (Decree-Law No. 36) marks a major shift in how Italy handles citizenship recognition. While it aims to bring clarity and order to a complex system, it also places stricter burdens on applicants, particularly those claiming citizenship through ancestry.

If you’re considering applying, now is the time to act decisively, get legal advice, and ensure you remain compliant with the latest Italian citizenship requirements.

Coppolaw can assist you with this matter. Contact us for immediate advice and protect your legal position!