Residence
10 yrs
Via marriage
~2 yrs
By descent
Grandparent
Dual citizenship
Allowed
Recent change: Law 74/2025 restricted citizenship by descent to two generations; court challenges continue.
Naturalisation by residence
10 years of legal residence for non-EU citizens (4 years for EU citizens, 5 for refugees and stateless people).
Through marriage
Spouses of Italian citizens can apply after 2 years of legal residence in Italy after marriage (3 years if living abroad), halved if the couple has children.
By descent (ancestry)
Since Law 74/2025, automatic citizenship by descent is limited to people with a parent or grandparent born in Italy (or a parent who lived in Italy for 2 years before the birth). Applications filed before 27 March 2025 follow the old rules.
Language & tests
Italian at B1 level.
Dual citizenship
Italy allows dual citizenship.
Frequently asked questions
How many years does it take to get Italy citizenship?
The standard requirement is 10 years. 10 years of legal residence for non-EU citizens (4 years for EU citizens, 5 for refugees and stateless people).
Does Italy allow dual citizenship?
Allowed. Italy allows dual citizenship.
Can I get Italy citizenship through marriage?
Spouses of Italian citizens can apply after 2 years of legal residence in Italy after marriage (3 years if living abroad), halved if the couple has children.
Can I get Italy citizenship through my parents or grandparents?
Since Law 74/2025, automatic citizenship by descent is limited to people with a parent or grandparent born in Italy (or a parent who lived in Italy for 2 years before the birth). Applications filed before 27 March 2025 follow the old rules.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Requirements change and individual circumstances matter; confirm with Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Citizenship or a qualified immigration lawyer before applying.