Reaction from the field
The Italian Constitutional Court’s recent ruling on March 15, 2026, has upheld the 2025 limits on citizenship by descent, creating significant implications for millions of Italian Americans and other applicants worldwide. Under the new law, only applications filed before March 27, 2025, will be preserved under the old rules, while new filings will face narrower eligibility and stricter caps. This change is poised to restrict citizenship primarily to individuals with an Italian parent or grandparent, marking a substantial shift in Italy’s approach to citizenship.
The law, proposed in March 2025 and effective from May 2025, was introduced to address a surge in citizenship applications from abroad, particularly from South America. The number of Italians living abroad has risen by 40% from 2014 to 2024, reflecting a growing interest in Italian citizenship among those with ancestral ties. In 2024 alone, there were approximately 30,000 recognitions of Italian citizenship in Argentina and 20,000 in Brazil, highlighting the demand for citizenship among Italian descendants.
With the new regulations, the Italian citizenship law increases scrutiny on the evidence required for applications, which has led to frustration among applicants. Many Italian Americans, estimated to number around 17 million, may find themselves ineligible for citizenship under the new rules. As Basil Russo, a prominent figure in the Italian American community, noted, “For Italian Americans, the path to dual citizenship is an almost sacred journey.” This sentiment underscores the emotional and cultural significance of citizenship for many individuals.
Antonio Tajani, Italy’s Foreign Minister, emphasized the seriousness of obtaining Italian citizenship, stating, “Being an Italian citizen is a serious thing. It’s not a game to get a passport that allows you to go shopping in Miami.” His remarks reflect the government’s intent to ensure that citizenship is not viewed merely as a means to travel or access benefits but as a significant legal status with responsibilities.
The law’s impact extends beyond individual applicants; it also represents a shift in focus towards EU residency options for those who may no longer qualify for citizenship. The only remaining option for those deemed ineligible is to move to Italy and pursue citizenship through residency, which may require several years of living in the country. This pathway could further complicate the situation for many applicants who have spent years preparing their applications under the old rules.
Critics of the law argue that it disproportionately affects those who have invested time and resources into their citizenship applications. The Italian citizenship law has historically allowed claims based on ancestry, known as jus sanguinis, and the recent changes have raised concerns about fairness and accessibility. As Renata Bueno, a legal expert, stated, “The law stands as it was decreed … and later approved by the Italian Parliament,” indicating that the legal framework is firmly in place despite public outcry.
As the situation evolves, the implications of the Italian citizenship law will continue to unfold, particularly for those who have been affected by the changes. Details remain unconfirmed regarding potential amendments or further clarifications from the government, leaving many applicants in a state of uncertainty about their future prospects for citizenship.
