Italian passports and citizenship: a gateway to global opportunities

Italian citizenship offers significant benefits, not least access to one of the world’s most powerful passports. As of 2024, the Italian passport ranks among the top ten globally, granting visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 countries. These include the United States, Canada and Australia, where visa requirements are either minimal or easily obtainable, as well as emerging markets in Asia, South America, and Africa, where travel flexibility is a crucial advantage.

This level of global mobility, combined with the many benefits of EU citizenship—such as access to healthcare, education, and the right to live and work anywhere in the EU—makes Italian citizenship highly desirable for individuals around the globe.

Pathways to Italian citizenship

There are several ways through which individuals can apply for Italian citizenship, each with its own requirements and processes. Understanding these pathways is essential to identifying the right choice:

1. Citizenship by descent: Italian law currently allows individuals with Italian ancestors to claim citizenship, no matter how far back the lineage goes, as long as certain conditions are met. This is one of the most attractive options for those of Italian heritage. If you have a parent, grandparent, or even great-grandparent born in Italy, you may be eligible to apply, provided that no one in the lineage renounced their Italian citizenship before passing it down.
2. Citizenship by marriage: Foreign nationals married to an Italian citizen can apply for citizenship after two years of marriage if residing in Italy, or after three years if living abroad. The application process involves proving the legitimacy of the marriage and passing a language proficiency test, among other requirements.
3. Citizenship by naturalization: Foreign nationals who have resided in Italy for a sufficient period may apply for citizenship through naturalization. The residency requirement typically spans ten years, though this period can be reduced for certain categories, such as EU citizens or individuals born in Italy or with Italian ancestry but who cannot apply for citizenship by descent. 

Why the Italian passport is one of the most powerful in the world

The strength of the Italian passport is an important factor to consider. Ranked among the top global options, the Italian passport provides access to a vast number of countries without the need for a visa, or with visa-on-arrival. This includes the entire European Union, allowing not only free travel but also the right to live and work in any of its Member States – but also countries such as the United States, Canada and Australia, where visa requirements are either minimal or easily obtainable, as well as emerging markets in Asia, South America, and Africa, where travel flexibility is a crucial advantage. 

How we can help

The path to Italian citizenship can be complex, involving multiple steps, rigorous documentation, and interactions with consulates, public offices, and international authorities. We are specialised in navigating these legal processes with precision and efficiency. We offer a full suite of services, including: 

• assessing your eligibility;
• assisting in the collection and authentication of required documents;
• liaising with Italian consulates, the Ministry of the Interior, and local municipalities on your behalf;
• providing legal advice on language and residency requirements;
• expediting the process wherever possible to help secure citizenship as smoothly as possible. 

With years of experience in this field, we have successfully helped numerous clients to obtain Italian citizenship, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of one of the world’s most powerful passports. Our team of dedicated professionals will guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your path to citizenship is both efficient and successful.