Italy Tightens Citizenship Rules Amid Surge in Applications

The Italian government has implemented stricter citizenship laws, now allowing only those with Italian parents or grandparents to apply. This decision stems from a significant influx of applications from people of Italian descent globally, which has overwhelmed administrative resources.

In a move that reshapes the pathways to Italian citizenship, the government announced new rules this past Friday, limiting eligibility to individuals with Italian parents or grandparents. Previously, descendants could apply if they traced lineage back to any ancestor alive after the establishment of Italy in 1861. This policy shift comes as a response to an unprecedented surge in applications, creating a bottleneck in Italy’s courts and consulates.

Antonio Tajani, Italy’s Foreign Minister, justified the change by highlighting the “abuses” stemming from worldwide interest in obtaining an Italian passport. He emphasized that many applicants, particularly from South America, were primarily motivated by the desire for easier travel across Europe and the U.S. Tajani remarked, “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,” reflecting the government's commitment to preserving the integrity of citizenship.

The new decree is effective immediately, signaling a clear intention from Italy’s government to prioritize those with stronger ties to the nation. As the decision unfolds, it remains to be seen how this will affect current applications and the future of Italian citizenship for those of ethnic descent.