Italy is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes. For many, becoming an Italian citizen is a dream, offering not only the charm of Italian life but also the benefits of EU citizenship. This guide outlines the pathways and requirements for obtaining Italian citizenship, particularly through naturalization.
Those not born in Italy or married to an Italian citizen can still pursue naturalization. The primary requirement is uninterrupted legal residency in Italy.
Non-EU Citizens: Must reside in Italy for at least 10 years before applying for citizenship. This includes Golden Visa investors who aim to transition from permanent residents to citizens.
EU Citizens: Required to reside in Italy for at least 4 years before applying for citizenship.
Legal Adults Adopted by an Italian: Can apply for citizenship after 5 years of residency.
Stateless Persons: Also eligible to apply after 5 years of residency.
Key Residency Requirement: Applicants must not have spent more than 10 months abroad in the five years preceding their application.
Applicants need to demonstrate financial stability by providing a declaration of income for the past three years. The minimum annual income thresholds are as follows:
Individual Applicant: At least €8,264.
Married Applicant: At least €11,362.
Additional Dependents: €516 extra per dependent.
Applicants must pay taxes and confirm their income through annual tax returns.
A key requirement for Italian citizenship is language proficiency. Applicants must pass an Italian language test at the B1 level, recognized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The test can be taken at one of the following institutions:
Dante Alighieri Society
University for Foreigners in Siena
University of Roma Tre
University for Foreigners in Perugia
Graduates of Italian schools, colleges, or universities.
Holders of diplomas from a provincial center for adult education and training (CPIA) or a local center (CTP) obtained after 2015.
Applicants must demonstrate compliance with the law by providing certificates of no criminal record. These certificates must be issued in Italy and any other country where the applicant has resided for at least a year. Each certificate is valid for 180 days from the date of receipt.
Permanent Residency: While the guide focuses on citizenship, it is important to note that those interested in permanent residency should meet similar requirements but with variations in the residency duration based on their specific circumstances.
Income Documentation: Ensure that all financial documentation is clear and accurately reflects your income to avoid any delays or issues in the application process.
Language Preparation: For those required to take the language test, consider enrolling in language courses early to ensure you can meet the B1 level requirement.
Obtaining Italian citizenship through naturalization involves meeting specific residency, financial, language, and legal requirements. For non-EU citizens, a decade of residency is needed, while EU citizens can apply after four years. Ensuring continuous residency, demonstrating financial stability, and passing a language proficiency test are critical steps. By fulfilling these requirements, applicants can enjoy the benefits of Italian citizenship, including the right to live and work in Italy and the broader EU.
Prepared on the information from immigrantinvest.com