Italy Citizenship 2026: New Rules, Easier Paths & Practical Tips for Expats

In 2026, Italy is considering significant reforms to its citizenship laws, aiming to make it easier for descendants of Italian emigrants and long-term residents to reclaim or acquire Italian citizenship. While the exact details are still being debated, the proposed changes could simplify the process for thousands of expats. This guide explains the current system, what might change, and how you can prepare—whether you're of Italian descent or just starting your journey to live in Italy.

Why Italy is Reforming Citizenship in 2026

Italy has one of the strictest citizenship-by-descent (jure sanguinis) laws in the world, often requiring applicants to prove an unbroken chain of Italian citizenship back to their ancestor. The proposed reforms aim to reduce bureaucracy, shorten processing times, and align with modern migration patterns. For example, new rules may allow citizenship for descendants up to the third generation (great-grandparents) rather than requiring an unbroken line. This is great news for expats with Italian roots who previously faced years of paperwork.

Current Citizenship Paths (Still Valid in 2026)

Even before the reforms, you have several options to gain Italian citizenship. Here’s a quick overview:

• Jure Sanguinis (by descent): If you have an Italian ancestor who was born in Italy after 1861 and didn't naturalize elsewhere before your birth, you may qualify. You must prove the line through birth, marriage, and citizenship certificates.
• By marriage (jure matrimonii): After at least 2 years of marriage (or 1 year if you have children), you can apply. You must show Italian language proficiency (B1 level) and legal residency.
• By residence: After 10 years of legal residency in Italy (5 years for EU citizens, 4 years for refugees, 3 years for descendants of former Italian nationals), you can naturalize. You must pass a language test and prove integration.
• By birth in Italy: Children born in Italy to non-Italian parents can apply for citizenship after turning 18, provided they have lived continuously in Italy since birth.

What the 2026 Reforms Might Change

Based on recent news, the proposed reforms could include:

• Simplified jure sanguinis: Allowing citizenship for descendants up to the third generation without requiring an unbroken chain, as long as the ancestor was born in Italy.
• Reduced residency requirements: For non-EU expats, the residency period for naturalization might drop from 10 to 7 years, with faster paths for those who invest in Italy or have special skills.
• Easier language requirements: The B1 Italian test may be replaced with a simpler integration course, especially for older applicants or those with family ties.
• Digital processing: A new online portal to track applications, reducing wait times from years to months.

Practical tip: Don't wait for the reforms to pass. Start gathering documents now—birth certificates, marriage licenses, and naturalization records—as these take time to obtain from Italy and other countries.

Step-by-Step: How to Prepare for Citizenship in 2026

Whether you're applying now or waiting for reforms, follow these steps:

1. Verify your eligibility: Use the Italian Ministry of Interior's online tool (available in Italian) or consult a certified Italian immigration lawyer. Check if your ancestor was born in Italy and when they naturalized elsewhere.
2. Collect documents: For jure sanguinis, you need: ancestor's Italian birth certificate, your parent's/grandparent's birth and marriage certificates, and proof that your ancestor never naturalized before your line was born. For marriage or residence, gather proof of language skills, tax returns, and residency history.
3. Translate and apostille: All foreign documents must be translated into Italian and apostilled (if from a Hague Convention country). Use a certified translator to avoid delays.
4. Submit your application: You can apply at the Italian consulate in your home country (for jure sanguinis) or at the local comune (town hall) in Italy (for residency-based applications). Expect fees of €300–€600 plus legal costs.
5. Prepare for the language test: Even if reforms ease this, learning Italian is essential for daily life. Enroll in a course or use free apps like Duolingo. Aim for B1 level before applying.

Costs and Timeline for Italian Citizenship (2026 Estimates)

Citizenship applications vary in cost and duration. Here's a realistic breakdown:

• Jure sanguinis: €500–€1,500 (including document retrieval, translation, and consulate fees). Timeline: 1–4 years, depending on consulate backlog.
• By marriage: €600–€2,000 (including language test, legal fees, and residency costs). Timeline: 1–3 years after marriage.
• By residence: €800–€3,000 (including language course, tax payments, and legal assistance). Timeline: 10+ years (or less if reforms pass).

Money-saving tip: If you apply at a small comune in Italy (not a big city), processing times are often shorter and fees lower. Consider moving to a town like Matera or Ascoli Piceno.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Many expats face delays or rejections. Avoid these mistakes:

• Missing naturalization dates: If your ancestor naturalized before your parent was born, you lose the citizenship line. Check the exact date—if it's after your parent's birth, you're still eligible.
• Incomplete documents: Consulates are strict. Every certificate must be original, apostilled, and translated. Missing a single document can restart the process.
• Ignoring the 1948 rule: Women couldn't pass citizenship until 1948. If your line includes a woman before that date, you must apply through a special court case (often faster than consulates).
• Not registering residency: If you apply in Italy, you must register as a resident (residenza) at the comune. This requires proof of housing, income, and health insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the 2026 reforms make it easier for me if I have a great-grandparent from Italy?

Yes, potentially. The proposed reforms may allow citizenship for descendants up to the third generation (great-grandparents) without requiring an unbroken chain of citizenship. This could eliminate the need to prove that each ancestor maintained Italian citizenship. However, the reforms are not yet law, so check with a lawyer for current rules. In the meantime, start gathering documents for your great-grandparent—this will save time if the reforms pass.

How long does it take to get Italian citizenship through marriage in 2026?

Typically 1–3 years after marriage, depending on processing times at your local comune or consulate. You must be married for at least 2 years (or 1 year if you have children) before applying. The B1 Italian language test is required, but some reforms may simplify this. To speed up the process, ensure all documents are translated and apostilled before submission, and consider applying in a smaller comune.

Can I work in Italy while waiting for citizenship?

Yes, if you have a valid visa or residency permit. For example, if you apply for citizenship by residence, you can hold a work visa (e.g., for highly skilled workers or entrepreneurs) while your application is processed. Once you receive citizenship, you can work freely without restrictions. Note that citizenship applications can take years, so plan your visa accordingly—don't let your residency permit expire.

What happens if my citizenship application is rejected?

You can appeal the decision within 60 days to the Regional Administrative Court (TAR) or the Italian Ministry of Interior. Common reasons for rejection include missing documents, incorrect translations, or failure to meet residency/language requirements. A lawyer specializing in Italian immigration can help. Alternatively, you can reapply after fixing the issues. If the 2026 reforms pass, some rejections may be reconsidered under the new rules—so don't give up.