Italy has introduced a major reform that will transform how citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis) applications are processed for individuals living abroad. While the legal foundations of citizenship eligibility remain unchanged, the administrative pathway is undergoing a significant overhaul—one that will gradually shift authority away from consulates and into a centralized office in Rome.
This reform marks one of the most substantial procedural updates in decades and reflects a broader effort by the Italian government to modernize consular services and standardize application handling worldwide.
A Shift Away from Consulates
For years, Italian consulates have served as the primary gateway for individuals applying for citizenship by descent outside of Italy. Under the new legislation, that model will be phased out.
In its place, Italy plans to introduce a centralized system managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale). A newly established office in Rome—dedicated exclusively to citizenship-by-descent applications—will gradually take over responsibility for reviewing cases submitted from abroad.
Once the system is fully implemented, adult applicants will no longer begin their process through their local consulate. Instead, applications will be submitted directly to this specialized office.
How the New Process Will Work
The reform introduces a more structured and uniform application model. While operational details may continue to evolve during implementation, the framework outlines several key changes:
- Applications will be submitted directly to the Rome-based office rather than consulates
- Original documents will be required and typically sent by mail
- Consulates will step back from processing adult citizenship-by-descent applications
Going forward, consulates are expected to focus primarily on:
- Services for individuals who are already recognized as Italian citizens
- Administrative matters involving minor children of Italian citizens
This represents a fundamental shift in how applicants engage with the Italian system.
A Gradual Transition Through 2029
Despite the significance of the reform, the transition will not happen overnight. The legislation provides for a phased implementation period extending over several years.
During this time:
- Consulates will continue handling existing cases
- New application intake may become more limited
- The centralized office will progressively take on a larger role
The full transition is expected to be completed by 2029, at which point the Rome office will serve as the primary authority for applications submitted from abroad.
Longer Processing Times on the Horizon
One of the most notable changes introduced by the reform is the extension of the official processing timeline.
Under the new system, applications may take up to 36 months to be reviewed—significantly longer than the timelines historically associated with consular processing.
This adjustment reflects the logistical realities of centralizing a high volume of applications into a single administrative body.
What Hasn’t Changed
While the procedural framework is evolving, it is important to clarify what remains the same:
- The eligibility criteria for citizenship by descent have not been replaced by this reform
- The changes primarily affect how and where applications are processed, not who qualifies
- The current system remains in place during the transition period
Applicants who already have pending cases or scheduled consular appointments should continue following existing procedures unless instructed otherwise.
Looking Ahead
This reform signals a broader shift in how Italy manages its global population of descendants. By centralizing citizenship recognition, the government aims to create a more consistent and controlled system. However, the long-term impact remains to be seen.
For some applicants, the changes may bring greater clarity and uniformity. For others, longer processing times and reduced access to consulates could present new challenges.
As the system evolves, one potential consequence is already becoming apparent: an increased interest in judicial pathways for citizenship recognition, particularly for those seeking more predictable timelines.
Final Thoughts
Italy’s move toward a centralized citizenship system represents a turning point in the administration of jure sanguinis. While the transition will unfold gradually, applicants should be aware that the process is entering a new phase—one that prioritizes centralized oversight over localized consular handling.
For now, the current procedures remain in place. But over the coming years, the path to Italian citizenship from abroad will look very different.
Take the Next Step
If you are considering applying for Italian citizenship by descent, understanding how these changes may impact your case is more important than ever—especially as the system transitions toward centralization.
Our team specializes in guiding applicants through every stage of the process, from eligibility assessment to document preparation and submission.
Schedule a consultation with Italian Citizenship Assistance’s team today to evaluate your case and determine the best strategy based on your timeline and goals.
