2025 Law Update:
The marriage route itself (Law 91/1992, art. 5) was not changed by the 2025 descent reform (Decree-Law 36/2025, converted by Law 74/2025). One change does matter for families: since Law 74/2025, minor children acquire citizenship with a naturalising parent only if they have lived legally in Italy for at least 2 continuous years (art. 14).
Italian citizenship by marriage is open to the foreign spouse or civil partner of an Italian citizen after 2 years of legal residence in Italy following the marriage, or 3 years from the wedding if you live abroad, halved to 1 year or 18 months if you have children born to or adopted by the couple (Law 91/1992, art. 5, Normattiva, checked 18 October 2026). You also need B1 Italian, no disqualifying convictions and the €250 contribution, and the Ministry of the Interior has up to 24 months, extendable to 36, to decide (art. 9-ter).
Italian citizenship by marriage (cittadinanza per matrimonio, or jure matrimonii) is a naturalisation route under art. 5 of Law 91/1992 that lets the foreign or stateless spouse or civil partner of an Italian citizen acquire citizenship by decree of the Minister of the Interior.
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Quick answer: apply after 2 years of legal residence in Italy after the marriage, or 3 years from the wedding if you live abroad, halved to 1 year or 18 months with children born to or adopted by the couple. You need B1 Italian, no disqualifying convictions and the €250 contribution. The legal time limit for a decision is 24 months, extendable to 36. Civil unions qualify. Italy lets you keep your other citizenship; check whether your other country allows it.
| Rule | Requirement | Legal basis |
|---|---|---|
| Living in Italy | 2 years of legal residence after the marriage (1 year with children) | Law 91/1992, art. 5 |
| Living abroad | 3 years from the marriage (18 months with children) | Law 91/1992, art. 5 |
| Marriage status | Not dissolved, annulled or legally separated when the decree is adopted | Law 91/1992, art. 5(1) |
| Language | Italian at B1 level or higher | Law 91/1992, art. 9.1 |
| Criminal record | No conviction for an intentional offence with a maximum of 3+ years, or a recognised foreign sentence over 1 year | Law 91/1992, art. 6 |
| Contribution | €250 | Law 91/1992, art. 9-bis(2) |
| Decision time limit | 24 months, extendable to 36 | Law 91/1992, art. 9-ter |
| Oath | Within 6 months of notification of the decree | Law 91/1992, art. 10 |
Beyond a sense of belonging, this citizenship grants practical benefits such as the freedom to live, work, and travel throughout the European Union. Additionally, it provides access to Italy’s renowned healthcare and education systems.
While the journey requires patience and meticulous preparation, the rewards of joining Italy as a citizen are profound and enduring.
Key Takeaways
- To apply for Italian citizenship by marriage, you need to be legally married to an Italian citizen and meet residency requirements, which vary based on where you live and if you have children.
- Gather required documents early, including a valid passport, marriage certificate, residency proof, and a criminal record check. You also need to prove Italian language proficiency at a B1 level.
- The application can take 24 to 36 months to process, and it’s crucial to prepare thoroughly for your consulate appointment and the Oath of Allegiance ceremony to finalize citizenship.
What Is Italian Citizenship by Marriage?
Recent Changes as of 2022
In July 2022 the Constitutional Court ruled (judgment 195/2022) that the death of the Italian spouse during the application does not bar the foreign spouse's application.
Italian citizenship by marriage is a pathway for non-Italian spouses to gain Italian citizenship through their union with an Italian citizen. This process is available for both heterosexual marriages and same-sex civil unions, reflecting Italy’s inclusive legal framework.
To be eligible, the marriage or civil union must be legally recognized, and the non-Italian spouse must meet residency and language requirements. Applicants typically need to demonstrate a minimum level of Italian language proficiency and provide proof of good character, such as a clean criminal record.
The application requires careful documentation, which can be submitted through the Italian Ministry of the Interior or the Italian consulate if the applicant lives abroad. Processing times may vary, and applicants should be prepared for a thorough review period.
However, successfully obtaining Italian citizenship brings a wealth of advantages, enriching not only the applicant’s lifestyle but also providing broader opportunities within the European Union.
Benefits of Italian Citizenship
Freedom of Movement Live, work, and study freely across the EU's 27 member countries.
Access to Quality Healthcare and Education Benefit from Italy's healthcare and education systems for yourself and family.
Cultural and Heritage Connection Enjoy Italy’s rich cultural heritage and foster a deeper connection.
Economic Opportunities Access business and investment prospects within Italy and the EU.
Dual Citizenship Retain your original nationality while enjoying Italian citizenship benefits.
Voting Rights Participate in Italian elections, whether residing in Italy or abroad.
Inheritance Rights Simplify the inheritance process within Italy for ease in asset transfer.
Family Benefits Minor children who live with you acquire Italian citizenship with you only if, on that date, they have lived legally in Italy for at least 2 continuous years (or since birth, if under 2) (Law 91/1992, art. 14, as amended by Law 74/2025).
With Italian citizenship, you gain not only practical advantages but a lifelong connection to Italy’s culture and opportunities.
This citizenship opens doors to an enriched lifestyle, allowing you to embrace the heritage, rights, and freedoms of Italy while benefiting from everything the European Union has to offer.
Who Is Eligible for Italian Citizenship by Marriage?
Acquiring Italian citizenship through marriage requires meeting specific eligibility criteria to ensure a smooth application process.
Time Requirements
- Standard periods: 2 years of legal residence in Italy after the marriage, if you live in Italy.
- 3 years from the date of the marriage, if you live abroad.
- Reduced periods: both are halved if you have children born to or adopted by the couple (art. 5(2) sets no age limit for the children): 1 year if you live in Italy.
- 18 months if living abroad with children.
Marriage Requirements
To be eligible for Italian citizenship by marriage, the marriage or civil union must be legally recognized and registered with Italian authorities.
At the date the citizenship decree is adopted, the marriage must not have been dissolved or annulled, its civil effects must not have ended, and the spouses must not be legally separated (art. 5(1)). A separation or divorce before the decree ends the application.
Italian law also grants the same citizenship rights to civil unions between same-sex couples, ensuring equal eligibility in these cases.
Additional Requirements
You must show Italian at B1 level or higher on the Common European Framework of Reference, with a qualification from an Italian public or recognised school or a certificate from an approved certifying body (Law 91/1992, art. 9.1). You do not need to attach this proof if you signed the integration agreement (accordo di integrazione) or hold an EU long-term residence permit. The Constitutional Court (judgment 25/2025) also exempts people whose age, illness or disability seriously limits language learning, certified by a public health body.
Under art. 6 of Law 91/1992, citizenship by marriage is barred by a conviction for an intentional offence carrying a maximum sentence of at least three years, by a foreign sentence of more than one year for a non-political offence once that sentence is recognised in Italy, or by proven reasons of national security. Rehabilitation lifts the bar.
A conviction for the crimes against the State listed in book II, title I, chapters I to III of the Criminal Code is also a bar, and the application is suspended while criminal proceedings for these offences are pending (art. 6(4)).
Documentation Required
Gathering the necessary documents is a pivotal step in the citizenship application process. Applicants need to provide a valid passport, marriage certificate, residency proof, birth certificate, and criminal records from their country of origin and any country of residence.
The birth certificate must be an original long-form issued no more than six months before the application and include both parents’ names. An extract of the foreign marriage record must also be obtained from the Italian municipality, issued within six months of the application date.
Additionally, criminal records should be issued no later than six months before the application, and obtaining these from multiple countries can be time-consuming, so starting early is advisable.
Valid Identification Document Includes a passport or other official identification.
Birth Certificate Must be original and include necessary details.
Criminal Record Certificates Required from both the country of origin and any countries of residence.
Marriage Certificate Needs to be registered with Italian authorities.
Proof of Italian Language Proficiency B1 level certification as per the Common European Framework.
Application Fee Receipt Confirmation of payment for the citizenship application.
Revenue Stamp (Marca da Bollo) Required as per application specifications.
How Do You Apply for Citizenship by Marriage?
Applying for Italian citizenship through marriage involves a series of organized steps and careful adherence to submission protocols. To successfully complete the process, you must begin by confirming your eligibility in terms of marriage duration, residency, and language requirements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
- Prepare and Verify Documents: Besides collecting your documents, ensure they are translated and certified as necessary for Italian legal standards.
- Language Proficiency Certification: Complete an Italian language test through an approved institution to verify your B1 level proficiency. This requirement applies to both residents and non-residents, ensuring all applicants meet Italy’s integration standards.
- Submit Online: applications for citizenship by marriage are made exclusively online on the Ministry of the Interior portal. Residents in Italy log in with SPID or an electronic identity card; residents abroad register on the portal first (Ministry of the Interior, checked 18 October 2026). The Prefettura (in Italy) or the consulate (abroad) then handles the file.
- Attend a Consulate or Prefettura Appointment: For applicants residing abroad, an appointment at the Italian consulate will be scheduled to submit original documents in person. Those in Italy will submit documentation to the Prefettura. During this appointment, officials may ask questions to verify the marriage’s legitimacy and confirm the applicant’s Italian language skills.
- Submit Fees and Finalize the Application: Once your documents are submitted, provide the required payment and retain all receipts as proof of completion.
- Wait for Processing and Final Decision: the legal time limit is 24 months from the application, extendable to a maximum of 36 months (Law 91/1992, art. 9-ter). After the decree, you must swear the oath of allegiance within six months of its notification (art. 10).
Submission Procedures
The submission procedures for Italian citizenship by marriage depend on whether the applicant resides in Italy or abroad, but every application is filed online. For those living within Italy, the local Prefettura office handles the file under the guidelines set for Italian residents.
Applicants residing outside Italy also apply online; the Italian consulate with jurisdiction over their area then handles the file. This consulate will manage document authentication and coordinate the application with Italian authorities to ensure it meets the necessary requirements.
Both approaches require applicants to follow the specific procedural details set forth by these institutions to facilitate a smooth and complete submission.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The legal time limit for a decision is set by art. 9-ter of Law 91/1992.
Expected Duration for Application Review
- For applications filed from the date Law 173/2020 (of 18 December 2020) took effect, the time limit is 24 months from the date of the application.
- In certain cases, this period may be extended to a maximum of 36 months.
Factors Influencing Processing Time
- Incomplete or incorrect submissions can lead to delays.
- The time required to authenticate documents and verify information can affect the overall timeline.
- The volume of applications being processed by the relevant authorities may impact processing speed.
- Factors such as criminal record checks or the need for additional information can influence the duration.
Applicants are encouraged to ensure all documentation is complete and accurate to facilitate a smoother review process.
How Much Does It Cost?
Applying for Italian citizenship through marriage involves several costs:
Application Fee: a mandatory €250 contribution, paid to the Ministry of the Interior (Law 91/1992, art. 9-bis(2), Normattiva, checked 18 October 2026).
Additional Expenses:
- Document Translation: Non-Italian documents must be translated into Italian by a certified translator, with costs varying based on document length and translator rates.
- Apostille Certification: Certain documents may need an Apostille to verify their authenticity for international use, incurring additional fees.
- Language Proficiency Test: Demonstrating Italian language proficiency at a B1 level or higher may involve costs for language courses and examination fees.
- Legal Assistance: Engaging legal professionals to assist with the application can add to the overall expenses.
It's advisable to budget for these expenses to ensure a smooth application process.
What Are the Marriage and Residency Requirements?
To be eligible for Italian citizenship by marriage, you need at least 2 years of legal residence in Italy after the marriage, or 3 years from the date of the marriage if you live abroad. Both periods are halved if you have children born to or adopted by the couple.
If you apply from Italy, you must be legally resident: registered as a resident with your comune and, if you are not an EU citizen, holding a valid residence permit. Moving to Italy first? Our residence permit guide explains the permesso di soggiorno.
Language proficiency is another key requirement. You must prove that your Italian language abilities are at a B1 level, which you can do by obtaining an Italian language certification from reputable organizations.
Lastly, you must meet the good character requirements. This includes providing a certificate of good character and passing a background check to ensure you have no criminal record.
Given the complexity of these requirements, consulting with an expert in Italian citizenship can be highly beneficial. They can help you navigate the nuances of your specific case and ensure you meet all necessary criteria.
What Do the Consulate and Prefettura Do?
The Consulate and Prefettura are responsible for reviewing citizenship applications and inviting applicants for an appointment to submit original documents. After submission, your application may be accepted, denied, or accepted with reservations.
An Apostille is required for all foreign documents to certify them for international use. Documents that are not in Italian need to be translated into the language. Furthermore, those translations must receive certification from the local Italian consulate.
Prepare thoroughly for the interview by reviewing your application, practicing your Italian, and being ready to discuss personal details about your marriage.
What Happens After Approval?
After receiving approval for Italian citizenship through marriage, there are essential steps to complete the naturalization process:
Oath of Allegiance Ceremony
The final step in acquiring Italian citizenship is the "Giuramento," or Oath of Allegiance. This ceremony is typically conducted at the local municipality (Comune) where you reside.
During the ceremony, you will pledge allegiance to the Italian Republic, affirming your commitment to uphold its laws and values.
It's important to note that the oath must be taken within six months of notification of the citizenship decree; otherwise the decree has no effect (Law 91/1992, art. 10).
Obtaining Official Citizenship Documentation
Upon successfully taking the oath, your citizenship status is formalized. The Comune will update the civil registry to reflect your new status as an Italian citizen.
You can then apply for an Italian passport and identity card (Carta d'Identità) at your local municipal office. These documents will serve as official proof of your Italian citizenship and will grant you the rights and privileges associated with it.
Completing these steps is crucial to fully exercising your rights as an Italian citizen. Ensure you adhere to the timelines and procedures to avoid any complications in your naturalization process.
What Are the Total Costs?
The contribution for the citizenship application is €250, paid to the Ministry of the Interior. The application also needs a revenue stamp (marca da bollo); the Ministry's online instructions show the current amount.
Consular legalisation of translations, where needed, carries its own consular fee. Keep the receipt for the €250 payment: you upload it with the application.
Each foreign document must have a separate Apostille, which adds to the total cost.
Can You Have Dual Citizenship?
One of the significant advantages of obtaining Italian citizenship by marriage is the possibility of holding dual citizenship. This means you can retain your original citizenship while enjoying the benefits of being an Italian citizen.
Dual citizenship offers numerous perks. You gain the right to live and work not only in Italy but throughout the European Union. This opens up a plethora of opportunities for employment, education, and lifestyle.
As an Italian citizen, you also have the right to vote in Italian elections, giving you a voice in the country’s democratic process. Additionally, you can access Italy’s robust healthcare system and educational institutions, which are renowned for their quality.
Travel becomes easier with an Italian passport, which gives visa-free access to many countries and free movement across the EU.
However, it’s essential to understand that dual citizenship can have implications for your original citizenship. Some countries have restrictions or additional requirements for dual nationals. Therefore, consulting with an expert in Italian citizenship law is advisable to fully understand the implications and ensure you meet all necessary requirements.
By following these guidelines and seeking professional assistance, you can navigate the process of obtaining Italian citizenship by marriage more smoothly and enjoy the numerous benefits it offers.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Applying for Italian citizenship by marriage can come with its challenges, often due to the complexity of required documentation, language requirements, and potential delays in processing.
However, with careful planning and a few strategic steps, applicants can overcome many common obstacles and improve their chances of a smooth application process.
- Collect and authenticate documents as soon as possible to ensure they meet Italian legal standards.
- Enroll in Italian language courses early to achieve the necessary B1 level proficiency.
- Working with legal professionals can help navigate complex legal requirements and avoid application errors.
- Double-check all forms and documentation for accuracy and completeness to minimize delays.
Importance of Professional Assistance
Professional help can reduce document errors and delays. If you need an Italian residence permit before you can apply from Italy, our Italy services cover the main residence routes, and you can book a free first consultation.
Good preparation makes the process smoother, but the decision rests with the Ministry of the Interior. For the other routes to citizenship, see our Italian citizenship guide.
Sources
- Law 91/1992 on Italian citizenship (consolidated text, Normattiva)
- Ministero dell'Interno - Citizenship Portal
- Ministry of the Interior - naturalisation through residence and marriage
Summary
In summary, obtaining Italian citizenship by marriage involves meeting specific eligibility criteria, gathering various documents, and navigating the submission process through the consulate, or Prefettura.
Despite the challenges, the benefits of Italian citizenship, such as visa-free travel, voting rights, and preserving family heritage, make the effort worthwhile. Professional assistance can be invaluable in ensuring a smooth and successful application process. Embrace the journey, and soon you could be proudly holding your Italian passport.
Related Italy guides: Italian citizenship by descent · How to get Italian citizenship