Italian citizenship by residence: fast-track for descendants of Italians

Information updated as of 2026 

In recent months, the topic of Italian citizenship has undergone significant changes, especially with the introduction of Law 74/2025. This reform has profoundly altered the ways of accessing citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis), significantly narrowing the pool of beneficiaries. Many aspiring citizens, particularly those with more distant Italian ancestry, have suddenly found themselves excluded from a pathway that until recently seemed accessible.

However, alongside these restrictions, the legislation has also introduced a lesser-known but highly relevant opportunity: an accelerated path to citizenship by residence for children and grandchildren of Italian citizens born in Italy.

A little-known new opportunity

The most interesting development concerns this specific category of individuals. Those who can demonstrate a direct connection to an Italian parent or grandparent now have the possibility of applying for citizenship after just two years of continuous legal residence in Italy. This represents a drastic reduction compared to the ordinary system, which generally requires a period of ten years for foreign citizens without Italian origins.

A particularly significant aspect of this measure is that it does not take into account any naturalization of the Italian parent or grandparent in another country. Even if the ancestor has lost Italian citizenship, the descendant can still access this facilitated pathway.

Why this path is so relevant

This option represents a concrete alternative for those who can no longer access citizenship by descent under the new rules. Reducing the residency requirement from ten to two years makes the goal far more realistic, especially for those willing to relocate and build a life in Italy.

Beyond the time factor, this pathway also promotes more authentic integration into Italian society: living in the country, learning the language, and participating in everyday life become integral parts of the citizenship acquisition process.

Requirements and conditions

To access this accelerated route, applicants must meet a set of conditions that go beyond simple formalities and represent a genuine process of integration into the Italian context. First and foremost, it is essential to document the family relationship with an Italian parent or grandparent born in Italy.

At the same time, applicants must obtain a long-term visa that allows legal residence in the country. There are various options depending on personal circumstances: some choose an elective residence visa, typically linked to independent income; others qualify through skilled employment opportunities, investments, or study programs.

Once in Italy, it is essential to maintain continuous legal residence for two years, without interruptions that could compromise the required period. In addition, applicants must demonstrate knowledge of the Italian language at least at an intermediate level (B1), as well as provide a criminal record certificate showing no relevant convictions.

How to prepare for this path

Those who intend to pursue this route should first carefully verify their eligibility by reconstructing the necessary family documentation to prove their connection to the Italian ancestor (which may be a parent or grandparent born in Italy, even if they later lost Italian citizenship for any reason).

Next, it is important to determine which type of visa best suits their situation, taking into account factors such as income, professional skills, or study plans.

Moving to Italy also requires concrete planning: finding accommodation, organizing financial resources, and beginning to integrate into the local community are all essential steps. Equally important is language preparation, which should begin as early as possible in order to confidently pass the required exam.

Finally, during the two years of residence, it is crucial to carefully manage one’s administrative status, ensuring that all requirements are consistently met without interruption.

Final considerations

Despite the restrictions introduced by Law 74/2025 posing an obstacle for many aspiring Italian citizens, the accelerated residence pathway emerges as a concrete and, in some ways, strategic solution. For direct descendants of Italians, this route offers a second chance, turning what initially seemed like a disadvantage into a real opportunity.

Relocating to Italy for two years is not a decision to be taken lightly, but for those who are motivated, it can represent not only a means of obtaining citizenship, but also a deeply enriching life experience.

Your Way to Italy: our assistance

Our team is available to provide support and assistance regarding italian citizenship and  immigration law! Contact us to schedule your first consultation! #Yourwaytoitaly

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.