The following laws currently apply to Italian citizenship, but you should check whether these have been amended before making any important decisions.
Any child born of an Italian father or mother is automatically Italian, as is a child born in Italy of unknown or stateless parents, or if the child doesn’t obtain the citizenship ( cittadinanza) of its parents under the law of their country.
In order to obtain Italian citizenship, you must apply to the Minister of the Interior ( Ministro degli Interni) through the mayor of the commune ( comune) where you live or through an Italian consulate abroad. A concession tax must be paid and you must swear loyalty to the republic and that you’ll observe Italy’s constitution and laws.
As with most things involving bureaucrats in Italy, the process of applying for and obtaining Italian citizenship is a long-drawn-out affair often taking years, which will stretch your patience to the limit.
The documents required vary according to your situation and nationality (it’s allegedly easier for those married to Italians); up to 12 documents may be required, many of which must be on official paper ( bollo), translated by an official translator, authenticated or legalised.
A list of the necessary documents is available from your local government office ( prefettura). After you’ve made an application, the authorities have 18 months to make a decision.
This article is an extract from Living and Working in Italy. Click here to get a copy now.