The Italian Parliament has taken a step toward extending the deadlines for the recognition of Italian citizenship for minors born abroad by benefit of law. The measure, included in the so-called “Decreto Milleproroghe,” provides for the extension of the current deadline of May 31, 2026, to 2029.

The vote in the Chamber of Deputies

The Chamber of Deputies approved the text through a vote of confidence requested by the Government. The outcome of the vote was 177 in favor and 93 against, confirming the parliamentary majority’s support for the extension.

The text approved by the Chamber fully reproduces the version already reviewed and amended by the Constitutional Affairs and Budget Committees. After final passage in the Chamber, the measure must be transmitted to the Senate for conversion into law within the prescribed timeframe, without the possibility of further amendments.

What changes for families abroad

The legislative measure concerns minors born outside Italy to Italian citizens by birth who were under the age of 18 on the date Law 74/2025 entered into force (i.e., May 24, 2025). Parents may submit a declaration of intent — accompanied by complete and correct documentation — by 11:59 p.m. (Rome time) on May 31, 2026, to the competent Italian Consulate in order to take advantage of the option provided by the current citizenship law allowing minors to acquire citizenship by benefit of law.

Many families residing abroad had reported that the May 31, 2026 deadline was insufficient. The main critical issues identified include:

• difficulties in obtaining appointments at consular offices within the required timeframe;

• delays in the transmission and issuance of certificates by Italian municipalities;

• issues related to updating registration with the Registry of Italians Residing Abroad (AIRE).

Without the availability of a consular appointment and with documentation still pending issuance, the procedure cannot be completed within the legal deadlines. The extension to 2029 therefore aims to ensure more realistic conditions for properly completing the administrative process.

Extending the deadline to 2029 would provide a more adequate timeframe, reducing the risk that eligible minors lose the opportunity to acquire Italian citizenship due to circumstances beyond their families’ control.

Pending final conversion into law, the measure is being welcomed as a sign of attention toward Italians around the world and toward new generations born outside the national borders.

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The content of this article is intended to provide general information on the topic. For doubts or specific cases, it is advisable to seek specialized legal advice tailored to your particular situation.

Article written by Alessia Ajelli, Managing Associate of LCA Studio Legale, Italian lawyer specialized on Italian immigration and citizenship law, and Paolo Grassi, Trainee of LCA Studio Legale.