To manage the influx of citizenship applications from individuals of Italian descent, Italy has revised its citizenship policy, restricting eligibility to direct descendants of Italian parents or grandparents. The decision follows concerns over individuals who sought citizenship primarily for travel benefits.
Italy Tightens Citizenship Rules Amid Rising Applications
Italy Tightens Citizenship Rules Amid Rising Applications
New regulations limit citizenship eligibility to those with direct Italian lineage as the government addresses a surge in applications.
Italy has recently enacted stricter regulations regarding citizenship applications, significantly altering the landscape for individuals of Italian descent seeking to obtain an Italian passport. Historically, anyone able to trace their lineage back to an Italian ancestor, provided that ancestor was alive after the unification of Italy in 1861, could apply for citizenship. However, a marked uptick in applications has overwhelmed consulates and municipal offices, prompting the Italian government to respond.
Effective immediately, the new decree limits eligibility to those who can demonstrate that they have direct Italian parents or grandparents. This change is in direct response to what Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani described as "years of abuses," suggesting that many applicants had limited ties to Italy and were primarily interested in the passport's travel benefits. Tajani noted the significant rise in applications from South Americans, indicating that many were motivated by freedom of movement across Europe and entry to the United States, rather than a genuine connection to Italian culture or heritage.
Tajani emphasized the importance of citizenship, stating, “Being an Italian citizen is a serious thing. It's not a game to get a passport in your pocket to go shopping in Miami.” This perspective reflects a broader concern within the Italian government about the commodification of citizenship amid a global demand for travel.
As Italy adjusts its citizenship policy, many who once had aspirations of connecting with their Italian roots will find their paths to citizenship significantly narrowed, highlighting the impact of globalization on national policies and identities.
