Italy's New Citizenship Law Limits Rights for Descendants of Emigrants

Italy's Constitutional Court has upheld a controversial law that restricts citizenship rights for individuals born abroad, significantly impacting millions with Italian ancestry. The law, enacted in March 2025, limits citizenship to those with a parent or grandparent born in Italy, effectively ending the longstanding principle of citizenship by descent (ius sanguinis) that has been in place since 1861. This ruling could hinder the ability of many Italians living abroad to pass on their citizenship to future generations and complicates the process for those seeking recognition, which can be lengthy and costly. Many are now left questioning their ties to Italy as the country grapples with a declining population and increasing emigration rates.

Key Details: • The law restricts citizenship to individuals with Italian-born parents or grandparents. • Citizenship applications can take years and cost up to 300 euros per document. • Women could not pass on citizenship until 1948, affecting many descendants. • Italy's population is shrinking, with over half a million residents leaving between 2020 and 2024.