Claiming Italian Citizenship: The New Law On Great-Grandparent Descent

Axel S�rensen

4 min read

Post on May 24, 2025

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Understanding the "Jus Sanguinis" Principle

Italian citizenship is primarily granted based on the principle of Jus Sanguinis, meaning "right of blood." This principle dictates that citizenship is passed down through generations from a citizen parent to their child, regardless of where the child is born. This contrasts sharply with Jus Soli, or "right of soil," where citizenship is granted based on the place of birth.

Historically, Italian citizenship through Jus Sanguinis had limitations, often restricting the transmission of citizenship after a certain number of generations. However, the recent changes have significantly broadened access for many.

• Definition of Jus Sanguinis: Citizenship acquired by descent from a citizen parent or ancestor.
• How it differs from Jus Soli: Jus Soli grants citizenship based on birth within a country's territory; Jus Sanguinis grants it based on parentage.
• Historical evolution of the law: The Italian government has periodically adjusted its citizenship laws, with recent changes expanding eligibility criteria.

The New Law: Expanding Eligibility Through Great-Grandparents

The new legislation significantly expands the possibilities for claiming Italian citizenship. Previously, proving lineage beyond grandparents often proved insurmountable. Now, descendants can claim citizenship through their great-grandparents, provided they meet specific conditions. This has opened up pathways to Italian citizenship for countless individuals whose ancestors emigrated from Italy generations ago.

• Specific requirements for proving lineage: This requires meticulous documentation, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, and potentially other relevant records for each generation connecting the applicant to their Italian great-grandparent. These documents must demonstrate an unbroken line of descent.
• Impact on descendants of Italian emigrants: This new law has a profound impact on the descendants of Italian emigrants, allowing many who previously believed they had no chance to pursue Italian citizenship to now explore this possibility.
• Removal of previous limitations on generational transmission: The most significant change is the removal of previous restrictions on the number of generations through which citizenship could be transmitted.

Required Documentation and the Application Process

Successfully claiming Italian citizenship requires a comprehensive and meticulously prepared application. Thorough preparation is key to avoiding delays.

• Certified translations of documents: All documents not originally in Italian must be professionally translated and certified by a sworn translator.
• Apostilles and legalizations: Depending on the country of origin, documents may require an Apostille (under the Hague Convention) or other forms of legalization to be accepted by Italian authorities.
• Submission to the correct consulate: The application must be submitted to the appropriate Italian consulate or embassy based on the applicant's current residency.
• Processing times and potential delays: Processing times can vary significantly, and delays are possible. It's crucial to be patient and prepared for potential setbacks.

Finding and Verifying Ancestral Records

Tracing Italian ancestry can be a challenging but rewarding undertaking. Accurate genealogical research is essential for a successful application.

• Online genealogical databases: Websites like Ancestry.com and MyHeritage offer valuable resources for researching family history, including Italian records.
• Civil registries in Italy: Accessing civil registry offices in Italy directly (often requiring assistance from a professional) can provide crucial birth, marriage, and death records.
• Professional genealogical services: Genealogical professionals can provide assistance in navigating complex research challenges and ensuring the accuracy of findings.
• Importance of accuracy in record transcription: Any errors in transcribing ancestral records can jeopardize the application. Accuracy is paramount.

Legal Assistance and Representation

Navigating the complexities of the Italian citizenship application process is significantly easier with the assistance of an experienced immigration lawyer specializing in Italian citizenship.

• Navigating bureaucratic hurdles: Lawyers possess the expertise to navigate the Italian bureaucratic system, streamlining the application process.
• Ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the application: They can help ensure the application is complete, accurate, and compliant with all requirements.
• Representing the applicant before Italian authorities: They can represent the applicant before Italian consular or government officials, advocating on their behalf.

Conclusion

Claiming Italian citizenship through great-grandparents under the new law requires thorough documentation, meticulous genealogical research, and often, the assistance of legal professionals. The process can be intricate, but the potential reward—obtaining Italian citizenship and a passport—makes the effort worthwhile.

Are you eligible to claim Italian citizenship through your great-grandparents? Don't miss this opportunity to explore your heritage and potentially obtain an Italian passport. Start researching your family history and gathering necessary documents today. Contact an experienced immigration lawyer specializing in Italian citizenship to ensure a smooth and successful application process for claiming Italian citizenship.