A Foreigner's Guide to Applying for an Italian Passport

What is the value of an Italian Passport?

An Italian passport is not just a travel document; it's a gateway to exploring the world. The Italian passport is one of the most powerful passports in the world. As of July 2023, it ranked first in the world according to the VisaGuide Passport Index.

With an Italian passport, you have the privilege of visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 190  countries, making international travel more straightforward and stress-free. Furthermore, being a part of the European Union means Italian passport holders can live, work, or study in any EU country without the need for a visa. The benefits of having an Italian passport are tempting.

However, it's essential to note that as a foreigner, you can only obtain an Italian passport if you become an Italian citizen.

Benefits of an Italian Passport

Holding an Italian passport comes with a range of benefits, given that Italy is a member of the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Freedom of Movement within the EU and Schengen Area: Italian passport holders can live, work, and travel freely within the 27 member states of the EU and the 26 countries of the Schengen Area without the need for visas or work permits.
    
2. Education and Healthcare in the EU: As an Italian passport holder, one has access to education, healthcare, and other social services in any EU country, often under the same conditions and at the same cost as nationals of that country.
    
3. Visa-Free or Visa-on-Arrival Access: Italian passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries around the world, making international travel more convenient.
    
4. Dual Citizenship: Italy allows dual or multiple citizenship, which means one can retain their original nationality while also enjoying the benefits of Italian citizenship.
    
5. Consular Assistance Abroad: In case of emergencies or issues while travelling, Italian citizens can seek assistance from Italian embassies and consulates worldwide. Additionally, if there's no Italian representation in a particular country, any EU embassy or consulate can assist Italian citizens.
    
6. Right to Vote: Italian passport holders have the right to vote in Italian national elections as well as European Parliament elections.
    
7. Cultural and Language Ties: Having an Italian passport can also serve as a connection to Italy's rich culture, history, and language.
    
8. Investment Opportunities: Being an Italian and, by extension, an EU citizen can provide more straightforward access to investment opportunities within the European Economic Area.
    
9. Protection under Italian and EU Law: Italian passport holders are protected by the laws and regulations of both Italy and the European Union, ensuring their rights and freedoms are safeguarded.
    
10. Ease of Acquisition for Descendants: Italy has laws that permit individuals of Italian descent to acquire citizenship through their ancestors in certain circumstances, making it easier for future generations to benefit.

How to get Italian Citizenship - Passport Application

In order to apply for Italian citizenship, there are certain criteria you must meet. Here are some of the criteria that make you eligible for citizenship in Italy:

1. By Descent: This is the fastest route to obtaining Italian citizenship. With this route, there is no limit to the number of descendants that can. If you have an Italian ancestor, you are eligible through the "jure sanguinis" (right of blood) principle.
    
2. By Marriage: Marrying an Italian citizen can make you eligible after 2 years of marriage or being in a civil union. While you won't automatically get a passport upon marrying an Italian citizen, it will speed up the naturalization procedure.
    
3. By Birthright: If a person is born in Italy and doesn't have any other citizenship by birth, they can claim Italian citizenship. Additionally, children born to at least one Italian parent, irrespective of their birthplace, are usually considered Italian citizens by birth.
    
4. By Residency: Living in Italy for an extended period (typically 10 years) makes you eligible for citizenship. In addition, You need to be a tax-paying and income-receiving resident in Italy to be eligible.
    
5. By Working for the Italian Government: Individuals who work for the Italian government, for at least 5 years, regardless of their place of employment (whether in Italy or abroad), can consider an Italian citizenship application.
    
6. By Adoption: Foreigners who are legally adopted by Italian citizens can acquire Italian citizenship, from the moment of adoption.

Requirements for Eligible Foreigners Applying for an Italian Passport

Once you've established eligibility for Italian citizenship, and you want to go ahead and get Italian citizenship, there are specific requirements to meet:

1. Proof of Residency

• If applying based on residency, you must demonstrate continuous legal residence in Italy for the required number of years (10 years for non-EU citizens and 4 years for EU citizens).
   
• This can be shown through rental agreements, utility bills, or official documentation from local authorities.

2. Criminal Record

• An applicant should have a clean criminal record, both in Italy and in their home country.
   
• Serious crimes or multiple minor offences can lead to disqualification from obtaining citizenship.
   
• The nature of the crime, the penalty imposed, and how long ago the crime occurred are all considered during the application process.

3. Integration

• Demonstrating integration into Italian society can significantly bolster your application. This can be evidenced through continuous employment in Italy, involvement in community or local activities, or proficiency in the Italian language.
   
• For language proficiency, certificates from recognized institutions can be beneficial.

4. Marriage Certificate

• Those applying through marriage need to provide a valid marriage certificate.
   
• Additionally, proof of a continuous and valid marital relationship might be required, such as shared property, children's birth certificates, or other joint documents.

5. Employment with the Italian Government (if applicable)

• If you're claiming citizenship due to employment with the Italian government, you must provide official documentation of your employment status, role, and duration of service.

6. Adoption Documentation (if applying by adoption)

• Legal adoption papers are crucial for those pursuing citizenship through this route. The adoption process needs to be recognized and validated by the Italian legal system.

7. Birthright (if applying based on birth in Italy)

• A valid birth certificate issued by an Italian municipality (comune) is required.
   
• If one of the parents is an Italian citizen, their documentation proving Italian citizenship is also necessary.

What are the Required Documents to Apply for an Italian Passport?

To apply for an Italian passport, you need to provide the following documents:

1. Certified copy of your birth certificate (translated into Italian).
2. A previous passport, if you have one.
3. Certified copy of your Marriage certificate (translated into Italian).
4. Evidence of Italian lineage (if applying by descent).
5. Proof of residence or legal stay in Italy
6. A valid travel document (visa) or other identification documents (National ID card).
7. Criminal background check from Italy & any other country you have resided in, before the age of 14.
8. An Italian passport application form from your local police headquarters or the nearest Italian embassy in your home country.
9. 2 passport-size photographs that were taken against a white background.
10. A letter of consent (if you are applying for a minor).
11. An Italian language proficiency certificate that proves a B1 level proficiency or higher.
12. Passport application fee receipt.
13. Certificate of Italian citizenship (or any other proof of your Italian citizenship).

How to get Certified Translation for an Italian Citizenship/Passport Application

When submitting documents from another country, they must be translated into Italian and certified. Documents typically requiring certified translation in Italy include birth certificates, marriage certificates, and criminal records.

• Choose a Certified Translator: Ensure that the translator/translation agency is certified to translate official documents  in Italy.
   
• Submit Original Documents: Provide the translator with clear, original versions of your documents.
   
• Acquire an Apostille: Some documents may need an apostille; a certification that verifies the document's authenticity for international use. This is required if the originating country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention.
  
   

What is the Process for Applying for an Italian Passport?

You can apply for a passport at the Italian embassy or consulate in your country of residence. If you live in Italy, you can apply at the “Questura” (local police headquarters). You should know that the process of applying for an Italian passport can take up to two or three years, during which six months may be used to decide on your right to Italian citizenship.

Once approved, you can apply for an Italian passport and receive your passport within 1-6 weeks.

1. Book an Appointment: Book an appointment with the Italian consulate or “Questura”
    
2. Application Form: Fill out the passport application form, which can be found at local municipalities or online.
    
3. Document Submission: Submit all necessary documents based on your eligibility category.
    
4. Payment: Once your documents are in order, you'll need to pay the application fee. The standard fee for adult passport application is €116, and €42 for minors under 18. The fast track fee is €50. Payment can be made via bank transfers, cash, or debit/credit card payments. Always ask for and keep the payment receipt, as you might need it during the collection process.
    
5. Interview: Attend an interview at the local municipality or consulate, if required.
    
6. Wait: The processing time can range from 1-6 weeks, depending on the application's nature.
    
7. Collection: Once your passport is ready, you will be notified, usually through a call, SMS, or email. You must collect your passport in person. Remember to bring the payment receipt and identification, like a national ID or driver's license when going to collect your passport.

Where to Apply for Italian Citizenship & Passport

Depending on your eligibility:

By Descent: Apply at the Italian consulate of your country of residence.

By Marriage: Apply at the local municipality where you reside in Italy or on the Italian Ministry of Interior portal.

By Residency: Apply at the City Hall in your local province.

What to Do If You Are Denied Italian Citizenship?

Receiving a denial for your Italian citizenship application can be disheartening. However, it's essential to remember that a rejection is not necessarily the end of the road. 

If your application for Italian citizenship is denied, you can appeal the decision within 60 days. You can appeal on your own or through a third party. You can have an Italian citizenship lawyer examine your denial letter to determine if appealing to the Italian courts is your best option.

Some common reasons for a citizenship application to be denied include:

1. Understand the Reason for Denial

Before you can address the issue, you need to understand why your application was denied. The denial letter will typically provide a reason. Common reasons for denial include:

• Incomplete or inaccurate documentation.
• Lack of sufficient proof of eligibility (e.g., lineage, residency, marriage).
• Criminal record or security concerns.

2. Seek Legal Advice

It's advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or a specialist in Italian citizenship applications. They can provide insights into the denial reason and guide you on the best course of action. They might be able to spot errors or omissions you overlooked or provide legal strategies to counteract the denial.
 

3. Gather Additional Documentation or Evidence

Based on the reason for denial, you might need to collect additional documents or evidence. For instance:

• If your lineage was questioned, gather more extensive family records or documents proving your Italian ancestry.
• If a criminal record was the issue, obtain certificates of rehabilitation or proof of good conduct since the incident.

4. Consider an Appeal

If you believe your application was unjustly denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process can be complex, and it's essential to have all required documentation in order.

• Submit your appeal to the competent Regional Administrative Court (TAR) within 60 days of receiving the denial.
• Ensure you have a clear and robust case, providing all necessary documentation and legal arguments.

5. Reapply for Citizenship

If you believe that addressing the concerns raised in the denial will significantly strengthen your application, consider reapplying.

Ultimately, you should only go before the Administrative Courts of Italy if you feel your application was unfairly denied.

Alternatives to Italian Citizenship

While obtaining Italian citizenship offers numerous benefits, it might not be the ideal or feasible route for everyone. Depending on your circumstances or preferences, you might consider alternative avenues that provide many of the same benefits without obtaining full citizenship. Here's a closer look at some of these alternatives:

1. Long-Term Residency Permits

If you're more interested in living and working in Italy than obtaining a passport, a long-term residency permit, also known as "Permesso di Soggiorno," might be a more accessible solution. This permit allows non-EU nationals to live, work, and study in Italy. After living in Italy for five years on this permit, you're eligible to apply for long-term EU residence, which allows you to live in any EU country.

2. Elective Residency Visa

The Elective Residency Visa is ideal for individuals who have a steady income from outside Italy (like retirees or remote workers) and wish to live in Italy without working there. Applicants need to show they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves without needing employment in Italy.

3. Investor Visa

Italy introduced an investor visa program to attract foreign investments. This is a residency-by-investment program, not a direct path to citizenship. However, by becoming a resident, you may eventually be eligible for citizenship by residency after the required period. To qualify:

• Invest €2 million in Italian government bonds, held for two years.
• Invest €1 million in an Italian limited company or €500,000 in an innovative start-up.
• Donate €1 million to a philanthropic initiative in Italy in sectors like culture, education, immigration management, research, or heritage restoration.

It's essential to note that the investor visa grants residency, not citizenship. Still, it's a step closer to becoming a citizen if that's an ultimate goal. The visa is initially valid for two years and can be renewed for an additional three years.

4. Work Visa

If you have a job offer from an Italian employer, you can apply for a work visa. This visa allows you to live and work in Italy and might lead to long-term residency and eventually citizenship.

5. Student Visa

For those looking to study in Italy, a student visa provides a pathway. While studying, you can also work for a limited number of hours. After completing your studies, you might find employment and switch to a work visa, leading to long-term residency.

Note:

While these alternatives provide a legal means to stay in Italy for extended periods, they come with their own sets of requirements and don't offer the full advantages of citizenship. However, if that's your long-term goal, they can serve as stepping stones to obtaining Italian citizenship.

FAQs About Italian Passport Application 

What are the Reasons for Losing Italian Citizenship?

You can lose your Italian citizenship by serving in a foreign military, by voluntarily renouncing your Italian citizenship, by misconduct (criminal involvement) or due to decisions taken by the authority in the interest of national security.

How can I get my Italian Citizenship Back?

Depending on why you lost it in the first place, you can get your Italian citizenship back through the following ways. 

• Residency: One of the most direct ways is to reside in Italy for a period.
   
• Petition: If the citizenship was lost due to service in a foreign military, one can petition for reinstatement.
   
• Automatic Reacquisition: In some cases, such as certain instances of service in foreign governments, Italian citizenship can be automatically reacquired after a specified period.
   
• Children: If you reacquire Italian citizenship, your minor children can also regain it.

Why is it so Difficult to get an Appointment at the Italian Consulate?

The difficulty in securing an appointment at the Italian Consulate can be attributed to a combination of factors. First and foremost, there's a marked increase in the number of people interested in obtaining Italian citizenship, especially descendants of Italian emigrants in countries such as the U.S., Brazil, and Argentina. This surge in applications puts a strain on consulate resources. Furthermore, consulates often operate with a limited staff, and handling each application requires meticulous attention to detail given the bureaucratic nature of the process. 

The documentation and verification involved in citizenship matters, or even just services for Italian citizens abroad, can be time-consuming. Adding to the challenge, consulates provide a wide range of services beyond just citizenship applications, further stretching their already limited resources. Finally, the online booking systems employed by some consulates can be challenging to navigate, with available slots being quickly filled up, making it a test of patience and persistence for applicants.
 

Does Italy allow Dual citizenship?

Yes, Italy recognizes dual citizenship, which means you can hold both Italian and another country's citizenship simultaneously.
 

Can I live in the USA with an Italian Passport?

While an Italian passport allows for short visits to the USA under the Visa Waiver Program, longer stays or permanent residency would require a U.S. visa or green card.
 

Why can you be denied Italian Citizenship?

Reasons can include a criminal record, discrepancies in documentation, or lack of sufficient proof of eligibility.
 

Can I Live in Italy Without a Citizenship?

Yes, you can live in Italy without being a citizen. Many foreigners live in Italy on various types of visas and residence permits.

What Documents are Needed to Pass on Italian Citizenship to Your Child?

To pass on Italian citizenship to your child, the primary documents required are the birth certificates of both the parent (who claims Italian descent) and the child, along with the parent's proof of Italian citizenship. Marriage certificates may also be needed if the lineage involves a married couple. It's essential to consult with the local Italian consulate or embassy to understand the specific documentation requirements and ensure all documents are appropriately translated and legalized for use in Italy.

What is the Easiest way to get Italian Citizenship?

The easiest way to get Italian citizenship is typically through "jure sanguinis" (right of blood), where individuals of Italian descent can claim citizenship based on their ancestry. If you can prove a direct lineage to an Italian ancestor who did not renounce their Italian citizenship before the birth of the next generation, you may be eligible. However, specific documentation and criteria must be met, and the process can vary depending on individual circumstances.