On March 28th 2025, the Italian government approved the Decree-Law No. 36/2025, introducing important amendments to Law No. 91/1992.

What does this mean for those with Italian roots? Who is still eligible? Let’s find out how this reform could reshape who qualifies for citizenship by descent and what is the Law No. 91/1992.

The Law No. 91/1992

This is the law that governs the acquisition, loss, and reacquisition of Italian citizenship.

As many of you surely know, before 1992, Italians who became citizens of another country automatically lost their Italian citizenship. Law 91/1992 changed this, allowing Italians to keep their citizenship and obtain multiple citizenship at the same time. 

This law also enabled foreigners to acquire Italian citizenship without having to renounce their original nationality.

The Decree-Law 36/2025

What is a Decree-Law?

The Decree-law is a special legal measure that can be used by the Italian Government only in case of emergency. The Decree has immediate effects, right from the moment it is released, but it must be converted into Law by the Italian Parliament after a period of 60 days. 

During this time, the decree is usually discussed by the Parliament which can also request adjustments or clarifications, if the Decree is not ratified by the Parliament, it lapses after the 60 days revision period. 

Important updates for citizenship applications

This new Decree introduces some important changes to the original Law 91/1992. Specifically, it adds a provision to the Law, Article 3-bis, which outlines new criteria for individuals born abroad with foreign citizenship and Italian roots.

Essentially, individuals born outside of Italy will now be recognized as Italian citizens only if they meet at least one of the following conditions:

1. They have an Italian parent who was born in Italy.
2. They have an Italian parent who lived in Italy for at least two consecutive years prior to their birth or adoption.
3. They have an Italian grandparent who was born in Italy.

This excludes all applicants whose Italian ancestry traces back further than two generations.

Future implications of the new Decree-Law

The reform does not apply to those who have already submitted their application for citizenship by descent at a consulate or municipality, or to those who already started a judicial proceeding before March 28, 2025.

The Government is working on the centralization of citizenship application processing through a new dedicated office, which should be part of the Farnesina organization. The Consulates abroad will no longer be responsible for citizenship applications: the measure is aimed to streamline the process and alleviate the burden of abroad offices which have been overwhelmed by the number of applications of the past few years. 

Conclusion

The approval of Decree-Law No. 36/2025 marks a significant shift in Italy’s approach to citizenship by descent, introducing stricter eligibility criteria and a centralized processing system. By limiting recognition to individuals with an Italian parent or grandparent, the reform significantly narrows the path to Italian nationality for many applicants, particularly those with more distant ancestral ties.

For those affected, it is essential to stay informed, seek legal guidance, and explore alternative pathways to maintaining a connection with Italy. As further developments emerge, we will continue to provide updates on the evolving landscape of Italian citizenship law.

If you wish to check your eligibility to apply for Italian Citizenship by descent, feel free to reach out at ciao@fastrackitaliancitizenship.com or call +1 202 738 4689
To check if you still qualify, take our eligibility test at this link!