09 Cittadinanza Per Unione Civile 1920x640px

Italian citizenship: civil unions

How to acquire Italian citizenship in case of civil unions

Italian citizenship for same-sex spouses

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

Our team is available to provide support and assistance throughout the process! Contact us to book your first consultation with us and to start the process to obtain the recognition of Italian citizenship for civil union! #YourWaytoItaly



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

News
News from our blog

Keep yourself updated by reading the most recent news and our articles on the most important topics on Italian immigration and citizenship law

Visas and residence permits
Citizenship
Tax, legal and more
Renouncing To Italian Citizenship 600 X 400 Px
Citizenship
Renouncing Italian citizenship
Legal procedure allowing Italian citizens with another nationality to voluntarily renounce their citizenship, provided they reside abroad and meet specific requirements. It covers required documentation, the role of the consulate, and exceptions for those residing in Italy.
Italian Citizenship And Invalidity Pension 600 X 400 Px
Citizenship
Citizenship by residence: disability pension and minimum income requirement
The article reports on a ruling by Italy’s Council of State (January 27, 2025) that changes the criteria for obtaining citizenship by residency. The decision states that disability pensions must be considered valid income when evaluating applications. Previously, these benefits were excluded from the required income calculation, leading to rejections for people with disabilities.
Italian Citizenship By Descent Constitutional Court 600 X 400 Px
Citizenship
Citizenship by descent and law 74/2025: first constitutional legitimacy concerns
Italy’s recent citizenship reform sparks legal controversy: the courts of Naples and Turin question its constitutionality, arguing it violates acquired rights, equality before the law, and legal certainty—affecting those applying for citizenship by descent.
1 / 21
Sign up to our newsletter!

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.