Italian Citizenship through Marriage: 5 Key Eligibility Criteria
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- July 10, 2023
Italian Citizenship through Marriage: 5 Key Eligibility Criteria
If you have aspirations of becoming an Italian citizen, marriage to an Italian national can be a pathway to dual citizenship. However, acquiring Italian citizenship through marriage entails fulfilling certain requirements and navigating through a few bureaucratic processes. In order to facilitate your journey toward Italian citizenship, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with these requirements. This comprehensive guide outlines the top five Italian citizenship by-marriage requirements that you should be aware of.
The Influence of Children on Italian Citizenship by Marriage:
Having children with your Italian spouse can simplify the process of obtaining citizenship. If you reside in Italy, are married to an Italian citizen, and have a child together, you can apply for Italian citizenship by marriage after just one year. For those living outside of Italy but married to an Italian citizen and sharing a child, the waiting period for eligibility is 18 months. It is essential to calculate the timing correctly while assessing your eligibility for Italian citizenship by marriage.
Documentation: A Key Aspect of the Application Process:
When applying for Italian citizenship through marriage, being married is not the sole requirement. You must also provide specific documents to the Italian government. The following documentation is necessary:
– Marriage certificate: A copy of your marriage certificate is required. If you were married outside of Italy, you will need to obtain a transcript from the Registry of Italian Citizens Residing Abroad (AIRE).
– Timing Without Children: Timing plays a crucial role in determining eligibility for Italian citizenship through marriage, even if you do not have children with your Italian spouse. If you reside in Italy and are married to an Italian citizen but do not share a child together, you can apply for Italian citizenship by marriage after two years of marriage. For those living outside of Italy, the waiting period for eligibility without children is three years of marriage. It is essential to keep track of the duration of your marriage while considering your eligibility for Italian citizenship by marriage, particularly when children are not a factor. Planning and patience are key in this situation, as you must meet the required time thresholds to proceed with your application.
– Spouse’s Italian ID card: You must submit a copy of your Italian spouse’s identification card.
– Certified copy of your foreign birth certificate: A certified copy of your birth certificate from your home country is required.
– Background check: You must provide a background check as part of your application process.
Additionally, you will need to pay a fee of 250 euros for your application. Payment options include checks, credit cards, or wire transfers, providing you with flexibility and convenience.
Language Proficiency: Demonstrating Italian Language Skills:
When applying for Italian citizenship by marriage, you will be required to undergo an Italian language certification test. Several options are available for this certification, including CILS, AIL, CELI, PLIDA, IT, DITALS, and CEDILS. Achieving a B1 level of proficiency is necessary to qualify for citizenship. This intermediate level demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively in Italian. The language test is a vital aspect of citizenship by marriage requirements.
Filing Procedures: Domestic or Abroad?
The filing procedures for Italian citizenship by marriage vary depending on whether you live in Italy or abroad. Initially, you will need to complete an online application, which can be done from any country. However, this step can be challenging as the application is entirely in Italian and contains technical details.
After completing the online forms, you must visit your local Italian embassy if you reside abroad. It is crucial to visit the same consulate at which your Italian spouse is registered. The in-person portion of the application process must be completed at the consulate.
Seeking Assistance for a Smooth Application Process:
Unlike some countries, Italy offers support for individuals seeking citizenship through marriage. Citizenship assistance is available to help you navigate the application process smoothly. Considering the extensive paperwork and potential confusion involved, it is advisable to consider hiring a specialized attorney, such as the Di Martino Law Group.
These professional services assist you in completing the necessary forms and gathering the required documents. They ensure that all documents are correctly filled out and signed, minimizing the risk of mistakes. Additionally, they handle the submission of your application to the Italian government, saving you time and effort while ensuring its accurate processing.
Acquire Italian citizenship with Di Martino Law Group
Acquiring Italian citizenship through marriage is an exciting opportunity that comes with certain requirements. By understanding and fulfilling these requirements, you can navigate the process more efficiently. Remember to consider the influence of children, gather the necessary documentation, demonstrate Italian language proficiency, choose the appropriate filing procedure, and seek professional assistance if needed. Di Martino Law Group is here to support you throughout your journey toward Italian citizenship. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore the best visa options for you.