New rules for Italian citizenship by descent: what changes for foreign applicants

In recent years, countries with large communities of Italian descent such as Brazil, Argentina and Canada have seen a significant rise in applications for Italian citizenship iure sanguinis, thanks to the broad interpretation of Law 91/1992. This led to long delays at consulates and a surge in legal claims in Italy, overwhelming the system.

To address the issue, on 28 March 2025, the Italian government approved the “Citizenship Package”, introducing major changes to the rules on citizenship by descent. Key reforms include:

• Limiting eligibility to two generations: only individuals with an Italian-born parent or grandparent may apply.
• New application procedures: Consulates will no longer handle requests; applications must now be submitted to a central office at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Farnesina) to improve efficiency and oversight.
• Requirement to maintain an active link with Italy (not yet in effect): every 25 years, citizens must exercise a civic right or duty (e.g. voting or renewing a passport) to retain their Italian citizenship.

Many Italian consulates abroad, such as those in São Paulo and Buenos Aires, have temporarily suspended new applications. Those who have already submitted their requests or taken legal action will be processed under the previous rules.

The reform does not abolish ius sanguinis, but it redefines and restricts it, tying citizenship to a genuine and ongoing connection with Italy, and aiming to prevent misuse based solely on distant ancestry.