Italy in 2026: New Rules Making Citizenship Easier to Reclaim

Italy is considering significant changes to its citizenship laws in 2026, aiming to make it easier for descendants of Italian emigrants to reclaim their nationality. For Brazilians with Italian ancestry, this could open doors to EU residency, work, and travel without the usual bureaucratic hurdles. This guide breaks down what the proposed reforms mean, who can benefit, and how to prepare your application.

Why Italy is Simplifying Citizenship Reacquisition

The Italian government has recognized that many descendants of Italian emigrants lost citizenship due to historical emigration waves and complex prior laws. The proposed reform in 2026 seeks to streamline the process, reducing paperwork and waiting times. For Brazilians, this is particularly relevant because Brazil has the largest Italian diaspora community outside Italy, with millions of potential claimants. The reform aims to strengthen ties with these communities and boost Italy’s cultural and economic connections globally.

Who Will Be Eligible Under the New Rules?

While the final text is still under discussion, the current proposal focuses on descendants of Italian citizens who emigrated after 1861. Key eligibility criteria likely include:

• Having at least one Italian ancestor who was alive after the unification of Italy in 1861.
• Proof that the ancestor did not formally renounce Italian citizenship before the birth of the next generation.
• No gaps in the citizenship chain due to naturalization in another country before 1992 (when Italy allowed dual citizenship).
• Applicants must be over 18 and not have criminal records that would disqualify them under Italian law.

If you are a Brazilian with Italian grandparents or great-grandparents, you are likely eligible. However, each case must be verified through official records.

How the Application Process Will Change in 2026

The reform aims to reduce bureaucratic obstacles. Current applicants often face years of waiting for consular appointments and document verification. Under the proposed changes:

• Applications can be submitted entirely online through a new digital portal, eliminating the need for in-person consular visits.
• Document requirements will be standardized, with acceptance of digital copies and electronic signatures from recognized authorities in Brazil.
• Processing time should drop from an average of 2-4 years to under 12 months.
• Fees may be reduced for direct descendants, though specific amounts are not yet confirmed.

For Brazilians, this means you can start gathering documents now and be ready to apply as soon as the law takes effect, likely in late 2026.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Application

Start preparing early to avoid delays. Here’s a practical checklist:

1. Identify your Italian ancestor: Gather birth, marriage, and death certificates from both Italy and Brazil. Contact the Italian comune (town hall) where your ancestor was born for official records.
2. Obtain Brazilian certificates: Request certified copies of your birth and marriage certificates from the Brazilian cartório. These must be translated into Italian by a sworn translator and apostilled.
3. Prove the citizenship chain: Ensure that each generation in your lineage did not naturalize in Brazil before having children. You can request a certificate of non-naturalization from the Brazilian Federal Police or the Italian consulate.
4. Check for prior renunciations: If any ancestor formally renounced Italian citizenship, you may need a legal waiver. The reform may simplify this step.
5. Register on the future online portal: Once launched, create an account and upload all documents. Keep digital copies organized.

Pro tip: Join online communities of Brazilian-Italian dual citizenship applicants to share tips and updates on the reform’s progress.

Benefits of Italian Citizenship for Brazilians

Reclaiming Italian citizenship offers more than just a passport. Key advantages include:

• Freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in the European Union without visas or work permits.
• Access to Italy’s public healthcare system (SSN) after registering as a resident.
• Ability to buy property in Italy and other EU countries without restrictions.
• Visa-free travel to over 180 countries, including the United States and Canada.
• Your future children will automatically qualify for Italian citizenship, creating a legacy for generations.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even with simplified rules, mistakes can derail your application. Watch out for:

• Missing documents: Start collecting at least six months before applying. Many Brazilian cartórios have backlogs.
• Incorrect translations: Use only certified translators recognized by the Italian consulate in Brazil.
• Assuming automatic eligibility: The reform may not apply to all cases. Consult a specialized immigration lawyer if your lineage is complex (e.g., multiple naturalizations or adoptions).
• Ignoring deadlines: Once the new portal opens, applications may be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Submit early.

Perguntas Frequentes

Preciso morar na Itália para solicitar a cidadania?

Não. Com a reforma de 2026, você pode solicitar inteiramente online do Brasil. A residência na Itália não é obrigatória para descendentes diretos, embora possa acelerar o processo se você já estiver morando lá.

O que acontece se meu ancestral italiano naturalizou-se brasileiro antes de 1992?

Isso pode interromper a transmissão da cidadania. A reforma pode incluir exceções para casos em que a naturalização ocorreu após o nascimento do próximo na linhagem. Consulte um advogado especializado para avaliar sua situação específica.

Quanto custará o processo com as novas regras?

Os valores ainda não foram divulgados, mas espera-se que as taxas sejam reduzidas para cerca de €300-€500, excluindo custos de tradução e apostilamento. Atualmente, o processo pode custar mais de €1.000 com taxas consulares e honorários advocatícios.

Posso incluir meus filhos na mesma solicitação?

Sim, desde que sejam menores de 18 anos e solteiros. Cada filho precisará de certidão de nascimento própria, mas a taxa será única para a família. A reforma deve manter essa regra.