Do you have Italian ancestors? If so, you may be eligible for Italian citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis) — and thus an EU passport. But be aware: A major reform in 2025 has drastically tightened the rules. Here you can find out what has changed, who is still eligible, and how the process works.
What is jure sanguinis?
Jure sanguinis means „by blood“: Italy passes on its citizenship to the descendants of Italian citizens—regardless of their country of birth. Generations of emigrants (for example, in the United States, Argentina, or Australia) were thus able to have their Italian citizenship recognized.
The Major Reform of 2025: The Two-Generation Limit
With the Tajani Decree (Decree-Law 36/2025 of March 28, 2025), converted into the Law 74/2025 (May 24, 2025), a Generational Divide introduced. Previously, anyone with an unbroken line of descent from an Italian citizen (dating back to 1861) could claim this right—with no limit on the number of generations. That is no longer the case.
Who is still eligible
As of March 27, 2025, only those who meet the following criteria are automatically eligible:
- one in a parent born in Italy has, or
- one in grandparent born in Italy has.
In addition, the Italian ancestor must, at the relevant time, exclusively Italian citizenship have possessed. Starting with the third generation (Great-grandparents and beyond) are not automatically eligible. Anyone who is not (or is no longer) eligible by descent may apply through the Naturalization Through Residence or Marriage Check.
Emigrating to Italy as a U.S. Citizen: A Guide
Visas (e.g., Elective Residence), Permesso, U.S. Tax Liability (FATCA/FBAR), Codice Fiscale, and Citizenship by Descent—The Guide for U.S. Emigrants.
Transitional Provisions for Existing Applications
Important for everyone who has already participated: Applications and officially confirmed dates that through March 27, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. (Rome) have been submitted or confirmed will still be processed according to the old rules verified. Anyone who starts after that will be subject to the new two-generation limit.
The 2026 Constitutional Court Ruling
There were complaints about the reform. On March 12, 2026 The Italian Constitutional Court ruled that the two-generation limit for new applications is in accordance with the Constitution. Law 74/2025 therefore remains in effect—the stricter rules continue to apply.
Here's how the application process works
Depending on the situation, you submit the application:
- about the the relevant Italian consulate in your home country,
- as is already the case in Italy Registered resident through the Comune, or
- in certain cases, via the Court of law.
You need the complete records the family tree (birth, marriage, death) with Apostille and a certified translation, as well as proof that the ancestor did not acquire another citizenship before the birth of the next family member.
Dual citizenship
Italy allows the dual citizenship – So you don't have to give up your current passport. You'll need to check with your home country to see if it also allows multiple citizenship.
What You Need to Do Next
First, honestly assess whether you meet the two-generation requirement (a parent or grandparent born in Italy). If so, gather the necessary documents and have your case reviewed by a legal professional—especially if your family history is complex. Anyone from the USA or from Great Britain ...will find additional country-specific information there.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About Jure Sanguinis
Sources
- Ministry of the Interior – Citizenship (accessed in June 2026)
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Citizenship (accessed in June 2026)
