How to Reacquire Italian Citizenship: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you were once an Italian citizen but lost your status due to naturalization in another country, you may be eligible to reacquire Italian citizenship. Whether you're drawn by a desire to reconnect with your heritage, move to Italy, or pass citizenship on to your descendants, the reacquisition process is a clear legal path that many are successfully navigating today.

In this article, we’ll walk you through who qualifies, the options available, and what you can expect during the reacquisition process.

Who Can Reacquire Italian Citizenship?

You may be eligible to reacquire Italian citizenship if:

• You were born in Italy and later became a citizen of another country (e.g., through naturalization).

• You lost your Italian citizenship voluntarily, such as by taking on another nationality before Italy allowed dual citizenship (prior to August 15, 1992).

• You renounced Italian citizenship for any reason.

Note: If you lost Italian citizenship as a minor because your parent naturalized, or under other special circumstances, your case may still qualify—but it might follow a slightly different process.

Two Main Paths to Reacquire Italian Citizenship

There are two main routes to reacquire your Italian citizenship, depending on your circumstances and goals.

1. Reacquisition While Residing in Italy (12-Month Residency Option)

This is the most direct method, as outlined under Law 91/1992, Article 13.

Steps:

• Establish legal residency in Italy (residenza anagrafica).

• Submit a formal declaration of intent to reacquire citizenship at your local comune (dichiarazione di riacquisto della cittadinanza).

• Reside in Italy for 12 consecutive months.

• Citizenship is reinstated by decree following successful completion of the residency requirement.

Pros:

• Simple, straightforward process.

• No need to renounce any current citizenships.

• You can experience daily life in Italy during the process.

Cons:

• You must physically live in Italy for a full year (some comuni may expect up to 24 months depending on interpretation).

• You’ll need to meet local residency requirements and remain in good standing with the comune.

  
  

2. Reacquisition While Living Abroad (Rare / Case-by-Case)

In very limited circumstances, some former Italian citizens may apply to reacquire citizenship from abroad, particularly if they lost it before dual citizenship was permitted in 1992.

This path:

• Is not guaranteed or consistently available across consulates.

• Requires strong documentation, including proof of Italian origin and the conditions of citizenship loss.

• May involve appealing to the Ministry of the Interior.

Note: While not widely accessible, some consulates have accepted declarations of reacquisition in specific cases. This is typically considered an exception, not the rule.

Required Documents

Documentation can vary by consulate or comune, but commonly includes:

• Italian birth certificate (estratto dell’atto di nascita)

• Proof of loss of Italian citizenship (e.g., naturalization certificate)

• A valid passport

• Proof of residence in Italy (if reacquiring in-country)

• Codice fiscale (Italian tax code)

• A written declaration of your intent to reacquire citizenship

You may also need:

• Marriage certificate (if applicable)

• Divorce decree

• Children’s birth certificates (if applying with dependents)

Timeline and What to Expect

• In Italy: The standard requirement is 12 months of continuous legal residency, followed by a few months of administrative processing.

• Abroad: If accepted, the timeline is highly variable and subject to both consular interpretation and Ministry approval.

After reacquisition is approved, your status is recorded in Italy’s civil registry and—if you live abroad—you may register with AIRE (Anagrafe degli Italiani Residenti all’Estero).

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Research local procedures, especially at your target comune in Italy.

• Consult a professional if your case involves nuance or foreign documents.

• Collect original documents early, especially if they need translation or apostille.

• Stay compliant with residency requirements if applying from Italy.

Final Thoughts

Reacquiring Italian citizenship is a deeply meaningful way to reconnect with your roots and regain access to a vibrant cultural and legal identity. Whether you're planning to move to Italy or simply want to reclaim your status, the law provides a clear pathway.

Need help evaluating your case or navigating the process?

Contact us at: info@italiandual.com

Visit: www.italiandual.com

Join our Facebook group: Italian Dual Citizenship Assistance

⚖️ Legal Basis

This guide is based on Law No. 91 of 1992, specifically Article 13, which governs the reacquisition of Italian citizenship by former citizens through a declaration made at the local Italian municipality or consulate.

📜 Disclaimer

The information in this guide is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Italian citizenship laws may be subject to change, and the interpretation of those laws can vary by region or consulate. We recommend consulting with a qualified professional to assess your individual situation.