Key Changes Introduced by Decree-Law No. 36

1. Generational Limit: Grandparent Rule

Previously, there was no generational limit on claiming Italian citizenship by descent. Now, applicants must have at least one parent or grandparent born in Italy. This means that great-grandchildren of Italian citizens will no longer qualify, unless one of their parents or grandparents was born in Italy. This represents a sharp reduction in eligibility for millions of people abroad, particularly in South America and North America.

2. Centralized Processing of All Applications

All new applications must now be processed by a centralized office at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Rome, rather than at Italian consulates abroad or local municipalities. This aims to:

  • Improve consistency and reduce errors
  • Shorten waiting times at consulates
  • Prevent fraudulent or incomplete applications

3. In-Person Interview Requirement in Italy

Applicants are now required to attend an in-person interview in Italy as part of the process. The purpose is to verify identity, documentation, and personal connection to the country. This change reflects the government’s goal to discourage “passport shopping” and ensure that applicants genuinely engage with Italian institutions.

4. Transition Rules for Applications Already Submitted

Any application submitted before 11:59 p.m. (CET) on March 27, 2025, will be processed under the old rules. New rules apply only to applications submitted from March 28 onwards. This “grandfathering” clause is essential for those who already filed paperwork but haven’t received a response yet.

5. Special Conditions for Children of Recognized Citizens

For minor children of individuals who were recognized as Italian citizens before March 28, 2025, the following exceptions apply:

  • The child was already recognized before that date
  • A formal request for registration was submitted before March 28
  • The parent was born in Italy
  • The parent resided in Italy for at least two consecutive years before the child’s birth

Why This Decree Was Introduced

The Italian government cited national interest, administrative overload, and passport abuse as the main drivers behind this reform. With citizenship applications skyrocketing—especially from countries like Argentina, Brazil, and the United States—the consular system has struggled to keep up. In many cases, applicants had no cultural or economic connection to Italy, which raised political concerns.

Italian authorities, led by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, emphasized that citizenship should not be treated as a tool for easier international mobility, but rather as an expression of identity and belonging.

Criticism and Debate

The decree has sparked controversy, especially because:

  • It penalizes distant descendants who may feel a deep emotional or familial connection to Italy.
  • Children of long-term immigrants born and raised in Italy still cannot apply for citizenship until age 18, which many consider unjust.
  • It may disproportionately affect diaspora communities, particularly in the Americas, who were previously encouraged to reconnect with their Italian roots.

What This Means for You

If you’re considering applying for Italian citizenship by descent, or helping a family member do so, here are the steps you should take:

  1. Confirm eligibility under the new generational rules.
  2. Gather documentation proving your ancestry and timeline.
  3. Plan a visit to Italy for the mandatory interview.
  4. Prepare for centralized processing, which may require additional time and professional assistance.
  5. Act quickly if you already started the process before March 28, 2025.

How Move to Dolce Vita Can Help

At Move to Dolce Vita, we support individuals and families through the entire Italian citizenship journey. Whether you’re applying under the old rules or the new decree, we offer:

  • Eligibility screening based on your ancestry and residency
  • Document review and preparation
  • Legal guidance for navigating the decree
  • Support with your visit and interview in Italy
  • Consultations in English and Italian

We’re here to make your path to Italian citizenship clear, compliant, and stress-free—whether you're in Los Angeles, London, or Buenos Aires.

Contact Us

Do you qualify for Italian citizenship under the new rules?

Let’s find out—together.

Contact Move to Dolce Vita today for a personalized consultation with Marco Mesina, Italian lawyer and founder of Move to Dolce Vita.

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