Recently, a new bill was proposed to the Italian parliament that could provide a pathway to Italian citizenship by descent for those who find themselves restricted by the Tajani Decree passed earlier this year. Notably, it would allow those with Italian ancestors further back than grandparents to access Italian citizenship—provided they can demonstrate knowledge of the Italian language at an intermediate level. In this article, we break down what the new language requirement entails, the details of the proposed bill, and how this could potentially affect Italian citizenship jure sanguinis going forward.
What is the B1 language exam?
In Europe, the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference) is the standard by which language levels are assessed for non-native learners. The scale is as follows: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, which A1 being the lowest level, and C2 being at the level of a native speaker. At the B1 level, the learner is lower intermediate, meaning he or she can understand the general points of a topic that is already familiar (e.g. work, family, travel). Basic conversation is possible, again, when it involves familiarity or personal interest. Simple arguments can also be made to support a point.
The avenues to receive an official certification of B1-level knowledge of Italian are through the CELI, CILS, and PLIDA exams. The former two are offered by the University for Foreigners of Siena and the University for Foreigners of Perugia. The latter is offered by the Dante Alighieri Society. However, this does not mean you need to go to one of these institutions in person to take the exam. There are many language schools in Italy and around the world that offer them. Note also that there is a regular B1 language exam and a B1 exam specifically for those applying for Italian citizenship. (Persons applying for Italian citizenship by naturalization or marriage, for instance, must take the exam). While both exams target reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, they are slightly different, with some reporting that the exam for citizenship is somewhat easier. In both cases, if the applicant does not pass one part of the exam, the entire exam needs to be retaken.
The new proposal
Ricardo Merlo, a former senator, recently proposed a bill to the Italian parliament that would allow those with Italian ancestors in the third and fourth generations and beyond to claim Italian citizenship by descent, provided they could pass a B1 language exam. He is the founder of the Associative Movement Italians Abroad (MAIE), which represents the interests of Italians living abroad. Merlo also acquired Italian citizenship jure sanguinis, and is originally from Argentina.
The bill does not apply to those with Italian parents or grandparents who, even under the new law (see below) can apply for Italian citizenship by descent. At the time of writing this article, we cannot say what will come of the bill. Even if passed, there is a good chance it will undergo amendments.
Other recent changes to Italian citizenship by descent
Earlier this year, the Tajani Decree introduced radical changes to the laws regarding Italian citizenship jure sanguinis. Whereas before one could claim citizenship with virtually no generational limit—so long as the Italian ancestor was alive after Italy became a unified nation in 1861—after the introduction of the Tajani Decree, this pathway of citizenship is currently only open to those with Italian parents and grandparents. Some cases include residency requirements. The Constitutional Court is scheduled to review parts of the new law, though, as raised by the Court of Turin in September 2025. The Constitutional Court had previously and independently ruled that the previous rules for citizenship jure sanguinis did not violate Italy’s constitution, which provides some hope for their future ruling on the Tajani Decree.
It is also worth noting that a quicker naturalization process is also available to those with Italian ancestry. Those with an Italian parent or grandparent who was a citizen from birth can also get Italian citizenship by residing in the country for only two years (previously this had been three years).
How Italian Citizenship Assistance can help
Our experts at Italian Citizenship Assistance are well-equipped to handle your questions regarding Italian citizenship by descent, marriage, and residency, as well as other immigration laws, such as visas. If you find yourself in need of assistance, or are interested in scheduling the B1 exam for your citizenship application, we would be happy to help. Contact us today at [email protected].
