WHEN IS THIS PROCEDURE APPLIED?
What has changed with current legislation
After the 2025 reform, citizenship by descent (iure sanguinis) continues to be recognized, but with stricter limits for those born abroad and holding another citizenship. Specifically, the new regulatory framework focuses on two aspects: first, the importance of first- or second-degree ascendants; and second, the need, in some cases, to demonstrate a genuine connection to Italy, for example, through a parent’s residence in Italy for the period of time set by law.
Who can be recognized as an Italian citizen from birth?
Under current legislation, the following cases can acquire Italian citizenship by descent:
- Anyone born in Italy at any date;
- Anyone who holds exclusively Italian citizenship, meaning who does not and cannot hold any other citizenship;
- Anyone who, in spite of being born abroad and holding another citizenship, falls within one of the situations regulated by Article 3-bis of Law No. 91/1992.
For more information we recommend reading the following pages as well:
Ultimo aggiornamento: 14 aprile 2026