Italian citizenship: civil unions

Since 2016, with the entry into force of Law No. 76/2016 so-called Cirinnà Law, the right of persons of the same sex to enter into civil unions has been recognized, meaning "the specific social formations within the meaning of Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution," which have thus been counted among those protected by the Republic because the personality of the individuals who make them up takes place there.

The rights and obligations recognized to the parties to a civil union are similar to those provided by the institution of marriage, and from this has derived the recognition of the right to acquire Italian citizenship for those who are civilly united to an Italian citizen.

What are the conditions for acquiring Italian citizenship as a result of a civil union?

Non-EU or EU citizens who have entered into a civil union in Italy with an Italian citizen are entitled to acquire Italian citizenship under the following conditions:

• at least 2 years have passed since the celebration of the civil union if the partners reside in Italy or at least 3 years in the case of residence abroad

• they demonstrate knowledge of the Italian language of at least B1 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference

• they demonstrate the absence of criminal records and proceedings against them

What happens in the case of marriage or civil union between spouses of the same sex celebrated abroad?

In the event that the union was celebrated abroad in countries where it is recognized as a marriage, it will be recognized by the Italian system but it will still be necessary to proceed with transcription at the last Italian municipality of residence of the Italian citizen, which will proceed with transcription as a civil union under Italian law.

Your Way to Italy: our assistance

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The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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