Italian citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis) has undergone significant reforms between 2025 and 2026. The new legislation introduces generational limits, stricter eligibility requirements, and additional obligations for children born abroad.

In this guide, Studio Legale Blu explains what has changed and who can still qualify for Italian citizenship by ancestry.

Legal Framework

Italian citizenship is primarily regulated by Law No. 91 of 5 February 1992.

However, major amendments were introduced through Decree-Law No. 36 of 28 March 2025, later converted into Law No. 74 of 23 May 2025.

These reforms significantly changed the recognition of citizenship for individuals born abroad.

What Changed in 2025–2026?

1️⃣ Generational Limits

Before the reform, there were no generational limits. Applicants could claim citizenship through an Italian ancestor who emigrated even in the 19th century, provided the line of descent was uninterrupted.

Under the new rules:

  • Citizenship is no longer automatically recognized for individuals born abroad who also hold another nationality.
  • A closer and effective connection to Italy is now required.

Applicants must demonstrate that:

  • At least one parent or grandparent was born in Italy, or
  • The Italian parent legally resided in Italy for at least two consecutive years before the applicant’s birth.

2️⃣ Children Born Abroad: No Longer Automatic

For children born abroad after the reform:

  • Citizenship is no longer automatic at birth.
  • A formal declaration by the parents must be submitted within specific deadlines.
  • In some cases, a period of legal residence in Italy may be required.

Transitional provisions apply to minors born before the final implementation of the reform.

3️⃣ Stricter Documentary Requirements

The burden of proof has increased significantly.

Applicants must provide:

  • Official birth, marriage, and naturalization records;
  • Complete documentation proving the uninterrupted line of descent;
  • Corrections of any discrepancies before submission.

Affidavits or sworn statements are no longer sufficient to compensate for missing official records.

Applications Filed Before 27 March 2025

Applications formally submitted or appointments confirmed before 27 March 2025 remain subject to the previous legal framework.

All applications filed after that date fall under the new restrictive regime.

Who Can Still Qualify in 2026?

You may still qualify if:

  • You have a parent or grandparent born in Italy;
  • You meet the new “genuine link” requirements;
  • Your documentation is complete and compliant;
  • You fall within the transitional provisions, where applicable.

Each case must be assessed individually.

Why Legal Assistance Is Essential

The 2025 reform has made citizenship procedures more technical and legally complex. Errors in documentation or eligibility assessment may result in denial or lengthy judicial proceedings.

Studio Legale Blu provides:

  • Genealogical eligibility assessment;
  • Legal strategy planning (administrative or judicial);
  • Full documentation review and preparation;
  • Assistance in court proceedings when necessary.

Italian citizenship by descent has not been abolished, but it has been significantly restricted. Demonstrating a distant Italian ancestor is no longer sufficient. Applicants must now prove a closer and legally relevant connection to Italy.

For a personalized eligibility assessment, professional legal guidance is strongly recommended.