Italy has drastically changed its citizenship laws, making it significantly harder for people to claim citizenship based on their ancestry. The new regulations, effective immediately, require applicants to have at least one Italian parent or grandparent and demonstrate Italian language proficiency. This move affects thousands hoping to obtain an Italian passport, previously one of the easiest to acquire.
The new rules eliminate the previous allowance for citizenship based on great-grandparents or even more distant ancestors. Thousands of applications are impacted, with many individuals and families already having invested significant time and money in the process now facing uncertainty. Several individuals shared their stories of disruption and financial loss caused by the sudden change in policy.
The Italian government claims the changes aim to crack down on “abuses” and those seeking citizenship merely for ease of travel. The Foreign Minister cited a significant increase in Italian citizens residing abroad with limited connection to the country.
The decree has sparked controversy and legal challenges. Experts predict years of court battles, as the changes are seen as potentially unconstitutional and rushed. While current applications are unaffected, those pursuing citizenship in the future face stricter requirements and a centralized online application process.
Those who previously qualified but have not yet applied will face the challenge of a significantly more difficult process.