Italian Citizenship by Marriage: A Complete Guide for 2024
Italian citizenship by marriage is an essential process for those who wish to consolidate their ties to Italy through marriage to an Italian citizen. This pathway provides a valuable opportunity for foreign spouses to become Italian citizens, allowing for a more complete integration into Italian life and society.
Let’s explore the details and requirements involved in this process in 2024.
What Is Naturalization by Marriage?
Naturalization by marriage is the process by which a foreign citizen can obtain citizenship of a particular country because they are married to a citizen of that country. In simple terms, the foreign spouse obtains citizenship of the country in which his or her spouse is a citizen, through a legally recognized marriage.
For spouses of Italian citizens, this process is known as “Naturalization by Marriage”.
Requirements and Deadlines
It is important to be aware of the requirements and deadlines involved in obtaining Italian citizenship by marriage:
–Residency in Italy: Couples residing in Italy can apply for naturalization after 2 years of marriage.
–Residence Abroad: For couples residing abroad, naturalization can be applied for after 3 years of formalizing the union. However, this period is halved if the couple has children under the age of 18 (including adopted children).
Women Married to Italians Before April 27, 1983
The right to citizenship by automatic marriage was granted to women who married Italian citizens by April 27, 1983.
Prior to that date, foreign women who married Italian men were considered Italian “by right” and automatically acquired Italian citizenship at the time of marriage, without the need to follow additional procedures.
Same-Sex Marriage in Italy: Italian Citizenship by Marriage
Since 2016, Italy has recognized same-sex civil unions. Therefore, the foreign partner civilly united with an Italian citizen can also benefit from Italian naturalization by marriage.
However, in order to take advantage of this law, after the civil marriage has taken place, it is necessary to transcribe and update the AIRE with the competent Italian Consulate and comply with the deadlines mentioned above.
In conclusion, Italian citizenship by marriage is a significant opportunity for foreign spouses to fully integrate into Italian society. Knowing the requirements and deadlines is essential to ensure a smooth and successful process.
If you are considering this path to Italian citizenship, make sure you are informed and follow the proper procedures, regardless of your marital background or location.
Required Documents Italian Citizenship by Marriage in 2024
In addition to the certificate of proficiency in Italian, other documents are required when applying for Italian citizenship by marriage:
1-Recent Birth Certificate , in original, mentioning the surname adopted as a result of the marriage.
2-Certificate of Criminal Record from the Federal Police, within the validity period.
3-Criminal record certificate from countries of residence, if you lived in another country after the age of 14.
4-Identity document (valid passport or ID).
5-Proof of residence.
“Estratto per Ritema dai Registri di Matrimonio“, issued by the Italian Commune.
Certificate of Knowledge of the Italian Language
It is essential to gather all of these documents and fulfill all the requirements to ensure a successful application for Italian citizenship by marriage. Be sure to follow all specific guidelines and requirements from each institution and authority responsible for the process.
Certificate of Knowledge of the Italian Language: Document required to apply for Italian Citizenship by Marriage
When applying for Italian citizenship by marriage, in addition to the requirements of residence and length of marriage, it is necessary to prove knowledge of the Italian language, usually at the B1 level. This is crucial to ensure effective integration into Italian society and facilitate day-to-day communication.
Italian Proficiency Exam
The B1 proficiency exam in Italian is an essential step in the marriage naturalization process. This exam assesses listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills in Italian.
To take the exam, candidates can look for educational institutions or exam centers that offer internationally recognized Italian proficiency certifications.
Some of the most well-known institutions that offer Italian language exams include:
–Università per Stranieri di Perugia (University for Foreigners of Perugia): This renowned Italian university offers the “CELI – Certificato di Conoscenza della Lingua Italiana” at various levels, including B1.
–Società Dante Alighieri: This worldwide organization of Italian culture that promotes the teaching of the Italian language and culture, offers the “PLIDA – Progetto Lingua Italiana Dante Alighieri” at different levels, including B1.
–Italian Institute of Culture: The Italian Institutes of Culture also offer Italian language exams, including the B1. Those interested should check the availability of the exams on their respective websites.
In addition to these institutions, many language schools and language centers around the world also offer preparatory courses and administer Italian language exams, including the B1 level.
Before registering for the exam, it is essential to check the availability of the exams, the registration requirements, and documentation required by each institution. Also, confirm that the certificate of proficiency issued will be recognized for the specific purposes for which you wish to use it, such as for obtaining Italian citizenship by marriage.
Step by Step to Get Italian Citizenship by Marriage in 2024
Obtaining Italian citizenship through marriage requires following a meticulous and carefully planned process. Below, we present a step-by-step guide to assist you in this procedure:
- Documentation Preparation: Gather all the necessary documents as mentioned earlier. Make sure they are up-to-date and compliant with specific requirements.
- Translation and Apostille: Documents must be translated into Italian by a sworn translator and then apostilled to ensure their legal validity.
- Registration on the Italian Ministry of the Interior Portal: Register on the Italian Ministry of the Interior portal to start the citizenship application process.
- Payment of the Consular Fee: Make the payment of the consular fee, currently set at 250 euros according to the Decree of October 4, 2018. Check the updated amounts before making the payment.
- Filling out the Form on the Ministry of the Interior Portal: Complete the form provided by the Ministry of the Interior, attaching copies of the documents prepared in the first step.
- Call for Delivery of Original Documents: Wait for the call, which will be made via the portal, for the delivery of the original documents.
- Attendance at the Italian Consulate: After analyzing the documents, the Ministry of the Interior will set a date for attendance at the Italian consulate, where all the documents will be presented.
- Oath and Confirmation of the Grant of Citizenship: After the review and acceptance of the documents, you will receive a communication confirming the granting of Italian citizenship. At that time, the oath will be taken.
Finally, it is important to note that the deadline for the conclusion of the process by the Ministero dell’Interno is up to 730 days after the acceptance of the request. In addition, consular fees may change, so be sure to confirm the amounts before payment.
Keep in mind that citizenship laws can change over time. Therefore, it is always recommended to check the official sources of the Italian government or consult with a professional who specializes in immigration for up-to-date information on the specific requirements for obtaining Italian citizenship by marriage.
With this guide, you’ll be better prepared to begin the process of obtaining Italian citizenship through marriage, making it possible to reach this important milestone in your life and on your journey towards Italian citizenship.
