Law No. 74/2025: what changes in italian citizenship by residency for descendants of Italians?

Since its entry into force on May 24, 2025, the new Law No. 74 (converting Decree-Law No. 36/2025) has introduced significant changes in the recognition of Italian citizenship by jure sanguinis (descent), along with new provisions regarding citizenship by naturalization through residency.

Citizenship by residency (naturalization)

The procedure for applying for Italian citizenship after years of legal residency in Italy has not undergone substantial changes. However, Law 74/2025 introduces an interesting provision for those who, although descendants of Italian citizens, do not meet the requirements to apply for the recognition of Italian citizenship by descent under the new rules.

Specifically, for individuals born abroad who have a first- or second-degree Italian-born ancestor (i.e., a parent or grandparent), it is now possible to benefit from a reduced residency period—2 years instead of 10—before submitting an application to acquire Italian citizenship by residency.

This provision effectively facilitates access for descendants of Italian citizens who could not transmit Italian citizenship to their descendants because they lost it (e.g., by acquiring the citizenship of another country before August 1992) or renounced it. It allows them to apply for citizenship by naturalization after a significantly shorter period of residence than the standard required for non-EU citizens (with some exceptions).

Apart from the reduced residency requirement, all other conditions remain in place, including income level, knowledge of the Italian language, integration into Italian society, and the absence of a criminal record. These apply to all individuals applying for Italian citizenship by residency under Article 9 of Law 91/1992.

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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.