How to get Italian citizenship by marriage?

Italian citizenship by marriage: step by step

1. Requirements for Italian citizenship by marriage

Marriage to an Italian Citizen: You must be married to an Italian citizen (or in a civil union recognized by Italian law).

Duration and residence: if you live in Italy, you can apply after 2 years of legal residence following the marriage; if you live abroad, the waiting period is 3 years. These terms are halved if you and your spouse have children (born or adopted) together. The marriage must still be valid - and the bond subsisting - when the application is decided.

2. Marriage documentation and proof of relationship

Marriage Certificate: A certified copy of your marriage certificate, registered with the Italian Comune. Proof of Cohabitation: Utility bills, joint bank statements, tenancy agreements, etc. that prove you are living together. Character Checks: Your application will also include criminal record checks from Italy and from your countries of origin and residence to ensure that you are of good character.

3. Italian language skills and integration requirements

All applicants for Italian citizenship by marriage must provide a certificate of Italian language proficiency at level B1 or higher, issued by a recognized certifying institution. This is to ensure that new citizens are able to integrate into Italian society and communicate with the authorities.

4. Italian citizenship by marriage: the application process

Once you have gathered all of the required documentation, the application is submitted online through the dedicated portal of the Italian Ministry of the Interior. The file is then processed by the competent Prefettura (if you reside in Italy) or by the Italian consulate (if you reside abroad).

5. Decision on your application for Italian citizenship

Once your application has been processed and you have been interviewed (if required), the authorities will inform you of their decision. If your application is successful, you will be invited to take the oath of allegiance to the Italian Republic, after which you will be granted Italian citizenship.

Move To Dolce Vita can assist you with the process of applying for Italian citizenship by marriage. Our expert team will guide you through the various stages of the process and help you to compile the necessary documentation for your application. Contact us today for more information on how we can assist you to achieve your dream of becoming an Italian citizen.