🇮🇹 Important Update on Italian Citizenship by Descent (2025–2027)
Italian citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis) has recently undergone significant changes, creating both uncertainty and urgency for many families with Italian ancestry. If you are exploring your eligibility, it is important to understand the current legal landscape and what steps you can take now to protect your options.
The Current Two-Generation Limit
At the moment, Italian authorities are applying what is commonly referred to as a two-generation limit for citizenship by descent.
In practical terms, this means citizenship must pass directly from parent to child without interruption. In many cases where the Italian ancestor is a grandparent or great-grandparent, the pathway may now be more complicated or restricted.
Because of this interpretation, many immigration lawyers and courts are currently accepting only cases where the line of citizenship clearly falls within these limits.
The “Minor Issue” Currently Before the Courts
Another factor affecting eligibility is the so-called “minor issue.”
This refers to situations where an Italian ancestor naturalized in another country while their child (in the citizenship line) was still a minor. Under current interpretations, this may interrupt the transmission of Italian citizenship.
However, this issue is currently being challenged in the Italian courts, including the Constitutional Court. Decisions expected in the coming months could potentially reopen eligibility for many families.
Until these rulings are issued, some cases remain uncertain.
Reclaiming Italian Citizenship After Naturalization
There is also an important opportunity for individuals who lost their Italian citizenship through naturalization in another country.
Under the new rules, these individuals have until December 31, 2027 to reclaim their Italian citizenship.
However, it is important to understand that:
• This reinstatement applies only to the individual who lost citizenship
• It does not automatically extend to adult children
• It does not reopen the family line for descendants
Because of this, adult children must often explore alternative pathways if citizenship by descent is no longer available.
The Most Important Document: Naturalization Records
One document has become critically important in determining eligibility: the Canadian naturalization record.
This record confirms if and when an Italian ancestor became a Canadian citizen, which can determine whether citizenship was preserved or lost in the family line.
Even if you are not yet certain which pathway applies to your family, ordering this document now is highly recommended.
Processing times are currently approximately 18 months, making it the longest document to obtain in many cases.
Ordering it early ensures your family has the necessary record available before the December 31, 2027 deadline.
If your family does not have a copy of the naturalization certificate, you can request a Search of Citizenship Records through the Government of Canada here:
Many families choose to order this record for their Italian ancestor or in-laws as a precautionary step so they are prepared for any legal route that may become available.
Other Pathways to Living in Italy
If citizenship by descent ultimately proves unavailable, there may still be other options to consider.
Some individuals pursue immigration pathways such as:
• residency visas
• long-term residence permits
• naturalization after living in Italy for a period of time
These options depend on each person’s circumstances and long-term goals.
Why Document Preparation Matters
Regardless of which route applies, one thing remains constant: proper documentation is essential.
Citizenship applications require certified copies of vital records, naturalization records, apostilles, and translations prepared according to strict legal standards.
Having these documents organized early can make the process much smoother, especially as legal interpretations continue to evolve.
Final Thoughts
The current situation surrounding Italian citizenship law is still developing, and further court decisions may clarify or expand eligibility in the near future.
For families with Italian ancestry, the most important step right now is gathering the key documents that determine eligibility, especially naturalization records.
Preparing early ensures that if an opportunity arises—whether through consulates, courts, or reinstatement pathways—you are ready to move forward without delay.
At Legalize That Doc, we partner with trusted Italian immigration lawyers to provide a full-service solution — from confirming your eligibility, to preparing your documents, to filing your citizenship in Italy.
✨ Whether you’re a retiree dreaming of Tuscany or a family rediscovering your Italian roots, we’re here to make the process effortless.
📬 Start today — message us for your Ancestry Questionnaire and let’s begin your journey toward dual citizenship in Italy.
