Italian Citizenship — Here’s What Changed in this year

So, you were thinking of applying for Italian citizenship through your great-grandfather from Napoli or Bari? You might want to double-check the new rules.

Italy passed a law on March 2025, that makes it tougher to get citizenship through ancestry (iure sanguinis). If you’re already deep into the process — or just starting to dream about that red passport — here’s what you need to know.

Until now, you could trace your Italian roots all the way back to the 1800s — as long as you had the documents, you were good. Not anymore.

From now on, you’ll need an Italian-born parent or grandparent. If your closest Italian ancestor is a great-grandparent (or further back), you’re out of luck — unless you already applied before the change.

Another new rule: you’ll need to show a strong connection to Italy. That could mean for example: living in Italy recently, having an Italian parent you’re in contact with or even proving cultural ties (language, visits, etc.). Basically, Italy wants to know you’re not just in it for the EU perks.

Better organisation?

Say goodbye (and maybe good riddance) to the long waits at consulates. Now, all applications go through Rome. In theory, this should mean better organization. In reality… we’ll see.

Why the Change?

Because way too many people applied. Italy saw a 40% jump in its citizens abroad over the last years. That’s a lot of people looking for a connection to their roots (and maybe to easier travel and healthcare).

The government says this change is about easing the administrative load, keeping the system fair, and bringing rules more in line with other EU countries.

Still dreaming of your Italian passport?

You may still qualify — especially if your parent or grandparent was born in Italy — but expect to provide more paperwork proving your ties to the country. If you’re unsure, this is a good time to talk to someone who knows the system.

We are not lawyers, we have all this information from the internet (e.g. from government websites), but if you want specific information – we will put you in touch with real estate agents who have their own lawyers. Just drop us a line.