New Italian Citizenship Rule: Birth Certificate Requirement Abolished for Descendants of Italians

Italy has recently simplified the process for descendants of Italians to acquire citizenship, making it more accessible for those who lack traditional documentation. The Italian Court of Cassation’s ruling has abolished the need for a birth certificate to prove lineage, opening new pathways for many aspiring citizens.

‍

Simplified Citizenship Acquisition

In a landmark decision on May 22, 2024, the Italian Court of Cassation ruled that descendants of Italians seeking citizenship no longer need to present a birth certificate for their Italian ancestor. This change is particularly beneficial for those who face challenges in obtaining such documents.

‍

Court Ruling Details

The ruling, known as 14,194, arose from a lawsuit filed by a descendant of a 19th-century Italian immigrant to Brazil. The applicant was initially denied citizenship due to the lack of a birth certificate but successfully presented alternative documents, prompting the court to reconsider and ultimately abolish the birth certificate requirement.

‍

Acceptable Alternative Documents

With the new rules in place, applicants can now use various documents to prove their Italian lineage. These include:

• ‍Baptismal Certificates: Issued by religious institutions.
• ‍Marriage Records: Documenting the union of ancestors.
• ‍Death Certificates: Establishing the line of descent.
• ‍Sworn Testimony: Provided by individuals attesting to the family relationship.

‍

Impact on Applicants

This change significantly impacts descendants of Italians worldwide, particularly those who struggled to find birth certificates due to historical or bureaucratic obstacles. It opens up the possibility of Italian citizenship to many more people who can now use alternative documentation to support their applications.

‍

Navigating the New Process

To navigate the updated citizenship process, applicants should:

1. Gather Alternative Documents: Collect baptismal, marriage, and death certificates, as well as any sworn testimonies.
2. Consult with Experts: Seek advice from legal experts specializing in Italian citizenship to ensure all documents meet the necessary criteria.
3. Submit Application: File your application with the appropriate Italian consulate or relevant authority, including all collected documentation.