If you’ve been looking into getting Italian citizenship through your family line, you’re going to want to read this. Italy just changed the rules—and not in a good way for most people hoping to get that coveted EU passport.
Until recently, if you had Italian ancestry, even going back to a great-grandparent, there was a pretty good chance you could apply for Italian citizenship by descent. That’s how thousands of people, especially in the US, UK, Australia, and Latin America, were able to reconnect with their roots—and also gain the benefits of living, working, or retiring in the EU.
But as of March 27, 2025, that door just got a whole lot narrower.
So, What’s Changed?
The Italian government has now tightened the rules so that you can only apply if your grandparent was born in Italy. That’s right—claims through great-grandparents or further back no longer qualify.
A lot of people who had already started the paperwork—or were just about to—have been caught completely off guard. This wasn’t something Italy gave much warning about. It came into effect fast, and a lot of applications that would’ve been approved last month are now basically dead in the water.
Why Is Italy Doing This?
From what’s being said, the big issue is volume. Italy’s been flooded with applications, many from people who don’t actually plan to live there—they just want the benefits of EU citizenship. That includes visa-free travel, better job access in Europe, healthcare, education, and easier relocation options.
Officials said the system was being overwhelmed by people who were technically eligible, but not really connected to Italy anymore in any meaningful way. By limiting applications to just one generation back, they’re hoping to reduce the number of new citizens who are applying just for the passport.
Who’s Affected?
Let’s say your grandfather was born in Naples and moved abroad—that’s still fine. But if the Italian side of your family starts with a great-grandparent, you’re likely out of luck under the new rules.
This hits especially hard for folks in the UK and US who’ve been working with lawyers, collecting old birth records, and getting ready to submit their applications. Some were even waiting on appointments that now don’t matter anymore.
And if you’re already mid-process? Unfortunately, there’s no clear grandfathering clause in the law right now, which means even those close to approval might have to start over—or abandon the idea entirely.
Are There Any Other Options Left?
Yes—but they’re not as straightforward. If you’re still serious about moving to Italy, here are a few other ways people are exploring:
- Elective Residency Visa – for retirees or people who can support themselves financially without working in Italy.
- Investment Visa – if you’ve got the funds to invest in an Italian business or government bonds.
- Work Sponsorship – if you can get hired by an Italian company, though this can be tough without in-demand skills.
- Student Visa – if you want to study in Italy and then explore staying longer after graduation.
Each of these has its own requirements, and none are as simple (or cheap) as the descent route used to be. But for some, they’re still a path forward.
Final Thoughts
If this change affects you, it’s frustrating—and you’re definitely not alone. So many people had their hopes set on connecting with their Italian heritage and starting a new life in Europe.
But it’s also a reminder that immigration policies can shift overnight. If you’ve been thinking about applying somewhere, waiting “until the time is right” might be risky. Sometimes, right now is the best time.
If you’re looking for alternative options, especially within Europe, it might be worth checking out Portugal’s digital nomad and passive income visas, or Spain’s updated pathways for remote workers and freelancers. The door might’ve closed in Italy—but there are still windows open elsewhere.
