Mazzeschi

Citizenship reform to be discussed in Senate

May 10, 2017

The reform of the Italian citizenship law is scheduled to be discussed on further in Senate on June 15th.

If approved, bill N. 2092 will bring a twofold change to the current legislation: significant changes to the current ius soli; the introduction of a new route so-called “ius culturae”.

Changes to the current ius soli route (birthright citizenship)

• Foreign children born in Italy to be considered Italian by birth if at least one of their parents has acquired the permanent residence status (i.e. is in possession of a permanent EC residence permit if NON-EU or, for EU citizens, has acquired permanent right of residence);
• Foreign children born in Italy and who have resided legally without interruption until reaching 18 years of age will now have 2 years instead of 1 to apply for citizenship   

The new ius culturae

• Foreign children born in Italy or who have arrived by the age of twelve may acquire the right to citizenship after at least five years of education in Italy  
• Foreign children arrived in Italy before the age of 18 can apply for citizenship if have resided regularly in Italy for at least 6 years and have successfully completed a cycle of education.

Italian citizenship is currently regulated by Law no. 91/1992. Back in October 2015, the Chamber of Deputies approved the reform bill including a moderate version of the jus soli and jus culturae. Since then, the bill has been discussed on in the Senate but until now an agreement was not reached between the parties.