Italy Citizenship by Ancestry 2025: What Law 74/2025 Means for Descendants of Italian Citizens
Italy has long recognized citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis) as a path for foreign nationals to reclaim their Italian heritage. However, as of March 28, 2025, the Italian Parliament has officially enacted Law 74/2025, a sweeping reform that significantly reshapes the legal landscape for citizenship claims based on ancestry.
For those considering applying—or already in the process—under the Italy citizenship by ancestry 2025 framework, these changes introduce new challenges, especially surrounding eligibility, documentation, and connection to Italy.
We provide clear, no-obligation information on Italy Golden Visa for those considering the move.
Law 74/2025: What Has Changed for Ancestry-Based Claims
Law 74/2025 was introduced to curb what the government views as “passive” or “automatic” citizenship claims by descendants who lack current ties to Italy. The law aims to ensure that Italian citizenship remains a reflection of genuine national connection, not just distant lineage.
Key update: All applicants must now demonstrate a “genuine connection to Italy.”
This is a fundamental shift from previous years, where citizenship could be claimed indefinitely through Italian ancestors, even if the applicant had never visited Italy or spoken the Italian language.
Proof of a genuine connection may include:
* Time residing in Italy (typically at least two consecutive years)
* Italian language proficiency, backed by certification
* Cultural, familial, or professional ties to Italian municipalities
* Involvement in Italian community organizations abroad
Generational Limits and Proof Requirements
For the first time, Italy has introduced a generational cap on ancestry-based citizenship claims. The law limits citizenship transmission to a set number of generations—typically up to great-grandparents—unless applicants can provide compelling evidence of their ongoing cultural and personal link to Italy.
Applicants must now present:
* Civil status documents tracing lineage (birth, marriage, death certificates)
* Verified proof of continuous citizenship transmission without naturalization
* Evidence of Italian language skills, cultural engagement, or time spent in Italy
These changes place significant pressure on applicants to build stronger personal narratives and present a detailed proof package.
Those seeking citizenship through great-grandparents may find their claims rejected if they cannot show a substantive connection to Italy under the new law.
Reacquisition for Former Citizens & Legal Uncertainty
While Law 74/2025 tightens requirements for descendants, it does provide limited pathways for former Italian citizens—such as those who lost citizenship through foreign naturalization—to reacquire their nationality. These individuals may be eligible to apply under specific reacquisition provisions, often requiring residency in Italy and successful completion of integration criteria.
However, legal interpretation remains in flux. Questions have arisen around the retroactive enforcement of Law 74/2025—particularly for those who submitted their applications prior to March 28, 2025. Some regional Italian courts are already issuing diverging rulings on how strictly the new law should be applied to pending claims.
Given these discrepancies, applicants should anticipate delays, possible appeals, and the need to consult with Italian legal counsel to navigate a complex and rapidly evolving system.
A More Complex Path to Italian Citizenship by Descent
Law 74/2025 marks a major turning point in how Italy views citizenship transmission through ancestry. The law now requires applicants to move beyond ancestry alone and demonstrate a real, ongoing relationship with the Italian state.
For those seeking to claim Italian citizenship by descent in 2025, it is more important than ever to:
* Act promptly, especially if you can document appointments made before March 28
* Prepare a thorough and well-documented application
* Seek legal guidance to assess your eligibility under the new rules
If you are a descendant of Italian citizens considering applying, don’t wait—review your case under the new legislation and determine your path forward with confidence.
