Dual citizenship lets you legally own passports from two countries and access the benefits of both. This merger of advantages from different countries is appealing. One prevalent dual citizenship combination is Italian and another country. In fact, 5.3 million foreign individuals reside in Italy. 

 

The country, with its wealth of culture, history, and job opportunities, is attractive to many individuals who are curious about dual citizenship. But what does it mean to hold both Italian and another country’s citizenship? 

 

This article explores the concept of dual nationals, focusing on the specific case of Italy. 

 

An Overview of Italy's Concept of Dual Citizenship

In 1992, Italian law passed a bill to allow those of Italian descent to obtain dual citizenship lawfully. Before this, only people born in Italy with Italian parents could claim Italian citizenship, with few exceptions. This meant that the voluntary acquisition of any other country's citizenship automatically took away their Italian citizenship status. 

 

The concept of dual citizenship was only legal for those who were born in another country but had Italian parent(s) and for those who owned their second citizenship by birth.

 

However, today, Italian law allows all Italian citizens to have dual citizenship, whether through birth or acquired citizenship. This, too, is without any concerns about the previous laws, regardless of the place of their birth. This allows citizens of most countries to obtain Italian nationality without renouncing their current citizenship. 

 

Italian Dual Citizenship Advantages

Here are some of the most important benefits of having Italian citizenship while being a national of another country.

1. Education

As a national of Italy, you and your children can benefit from quality education. Italy's government offers affordable education fees to ensure an excellent institutional experience. To explore the institutional benefits of the government scheme, you can consult with Italian dual citizenship service providers with job, residence, and education knowledge. 

2. Travel

The travel benefits allow you to live anywhere legally in Italy. It also allows you to reside in any other EU Member State forever as a legal Italian citizen. However, you must follow the local regulations and tax laws. 

3. Employment

Employers look highly at you if you have dual citizenship. This is because there is less paperwork and cost for hiring. Moreover, you also benefit from being a native English speaker and having Italian proficiency. It provides you with access to more job opportunities.

4. The right to vote

Even when you live outside Italy, the country gives you the right, as an Italian citizen, to vote for Italy's future as per law. If you have contact with someone who is a legal national of two countries, including Italy, ensure that you get Italian dual citizenship reviews based on their experience with voting rights. 

5. Property ownership

You can purchase beautiful houses and apartments that Italy has for sale. This is possible even when you currently live in another country. However, you will need to follow the real estate laws of Italy. 

 

Requirements For Italian Dual Citizenship Application

You are eligible to be a legal dual citizenship holder by passing the below-shared requirements. However, you only have to fit into any one of these criteria: 

1. Jure Sanguinis (Right of Blood)

It is one of the grounds to prove you are a legal dual nationality holder. You need a linear bloodline consisting of Italian-born or naturalized ancestors. 

Here's what you can do to pass this criteria: 

 

• Demonstrate you qualify for citizenship by descent.
• Submit relevant documents as Proof of eligibility.

 

Let's understand in detail:

 

You must prove that your ancestors, or any of their descendants born after July 1st, 1912, have not renounced the right to maintain dual nationality. Obtain certified copies of birth/marriage/death/naturalization certificates. You also have to obtain apostilles and translations of these documents.

2. By Marriage

Italian dual citizenship through marriage is likewise an excellent approach to gaining twin nationality. You can apply for Italian citizenship by marriage if you are wedded to an Italian citizen for at least two years, 3 (if living abroad).

 

If you have kids, either biological or adopted, the waiting terms to get your citizenship by marriage are reduced by half. Another must-have is basic knowledge of the Italian language and culture. It'll help you obtain a B1-level certification.

 

Ensure that you provide your marriage certificate, the birth registration of your spouse, a clear criminal record, and a language certification to demonstrate that your marriage is real. You can complete an online application on the Ministry of the Interior portal. Make sure the local Italian consulate verifies all the documents. 

3. Naturalization

You may acquire dual citizenship if you live in Italy with a legal visa for ten successive years (if not an EU citizen). However, this period is reduced to four consecutive years if you are an EU citizen. 

 

You must also prove that you have income streams, lodging, and a non-criminal record. Also, a resident permit, tax return application, passport, and certificate of good conduct must be provided. 

 

How to Apply for Italian Dual Citizenship?

You can fill out and submit your application for Italian dual citizenship in easy steps. But, be sure to check the Italian dual citizenship cost for application beforehand to avoid any delays or issues. Here are the steps: 

Step 1. Determine your Eligibility

You may be eligible to fill out the application by descent, marriage, or residency. The criteria you pass among these three will depend on your legal situation.

Step 2. Prepare to Submit the Proper Paperwork

Arrange certified copies of birth and marriage (if married) certificates, as well as residence and naturalization certificates. Provide evidence of your ties with your Italian ancestors. Keep translation of these documents. This process may be daunting as it involves a lot of back and forth. It is best to hire a reliable Italian legal professional or a firm like Di Martino Law Group to help you. 

Step 3. Fill Your Application

Fill out the online application via the Ministry of Interior's portal called ALI. You can also complete the form by visiting the Italian consulate (only for non-EU citizens) or town hall in person. Pay the application fee, and they will process your file. The approval process can take several months or years.

Step 4. Receive your Recognition

Once your application is approved, you will receive a citizenship certificate. Thus, you will be free to enjoy the benefits of citizenship in the two countries. 

 

Ready to Access Italian Dual Citizenship? 

Italy's progressive stance on dual citizenship makes it a perfect opportunity for those wanting to improve their livelihood, career, or business. Having an Italian and another passport in hand has various advantages, from travel to economic opportunities. 

 

Nonetheless, knowing the specific requirements and implications of dual citizenship is essential as these can differ between one country and another. Before taking the dual citizenship route, you must consider your legal situation and plans to ensure dual nationality aligns with your goals.

 

FAQs

1. What are the tax implications of dual citizenship?

Tax laws vary between countries. Knowing the tax liabilities of your Italian and other countries is essential. You may need to file tax returns in both countries and pay taxes on income earned in either jurisdiction.

2. Is there any age limit for obtaining an Italian passport?

There is no age limit to obtain an Italian passport. Please note that some requirements and procedures depend on your situation (like naturalization, marriage, or citizenship by descent).

3. Does Italy legalize triple citizenship?

You can have multiple citizenship statuses as per Italian law. 

4. Can you live in Italy with American citizenship?

Italian law lets you reside in Italy as an American and Canadian citizen without any visa for 90 days. However, you won't be able to work here. You will need residency or a business visa for it.