Italy Citizenship by Descent Law Changes – What This Means for Investors
In a dramatic policy shift, Italy has moved to tighten its citizenship laws, cutting off a major route to EU citizenship for millions around the world. As of March 30, 2025, the Italian government has restricted citizenship-by-descent – known as jus sanguinis – to just two generations. Now, only individuals with a parent or grandparent born in Italy will be eligible to apply.
Previously, the law allowed anyone with an Italian ancestor alive after 17 March 1861 to claim Italian nationality by descent — a rule widely viewed as generous and increasingly out of step with modern policy. The change will shut out thousands of potential applicants, particularly in the United States, Brazil, Argentina, and Australia, where large diaspora communities had been relying on ancestral ties for acquiring Italian citizenship.
Italy Citizenship by Descent: Now Two Generations Only
This policy marks a major tightening of Italy’s citizenship framework. The new law significantly narrows access to Italian nationality by descent, affecting a wide range of people who had previously been eligible. This includes descendants of great-grandparents or earlier generations, who are now excluded from claiming Italian citizenship under the updated criteria.
A Shift in Strategy for “Plan B” Seekers
For many considering second citizenship, this change may prompt a reassessment of their options. We’ve spoken to numerous individuals who had been exploring Italian ancestral routes and putting other plans on hold. With this sudden update, that particular path may no longer be viable for many.
The positive news? There are still smart, strategic alternatives available in Europe – and in some cases, they may offer more control, speed, and long-term benefits.
Italy’s Golden Visa Still Open – But It’s a Long Road To Citizenship
For those still set on Italy, the Italy Golden Visa remains an option. With a qualifying investment (starting from €250,000), investors can obtain residency and, after 10 years of legal residence, apply for citizenship. However, the 10 year timeline and physical presence requirements make it less appealing to those seeking speed or flexibility.
Portugal and Malta – Faster, Flexible, and Proven
By contrast, Portugal’s Golden Visa continues to be one of the most attractive alternatives in Europe. Citizenship is achievable after just 5 years, with minimal stay requirements — a major advantage for globally mobile individuals. Malta’s Citizenship by Investment program also offers an attractive route for those seeking EU citizenship with slightly different parameters.
European Citizenship by Descent – Alternatives
While Italy has closed the door to many, other European countries still offer citizenship by descent – including Ireland, Poland, Hungary, and Lithuania, among others. These programmes can provide an excellent pathway for those with verifiable ancestral links.
However, it’s important to understand the challenges involved. Proving ancestry – especially across several generations – can be a long-winded process, and sourcing original documentation from older generations can be complex. Several of La Vida’s experts have a first hand experience of various European citizenship-by-descent routes, and while it’s a rewarding route for those who qualify, it often takes time, patience, and meticulous paperwork.
For those without clear or recent ancestral links, residency and citizenship by investment programmes may offer a more practical and predictable route.
Demand Set to Surge
This change in Italian law will undoubtedly push a wave of demand towards investment migration programs from those who can afford it. Those who previously hoped to secure an EU passport through ancestry will now be weighing their next best options and many will find that Golden Visa and Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs offer the ideal solution.
At La Vida, we’re already seeing renewed interest from many clients re-engaging on Portugal, Malta, and other European options. If you’ve delayed your plans waiting on an ancestral claim, now is the time to act. This announcement is also a clear reminder that governments can, and do, change citizenship and residency legislation quickly. Once you’ve identified the right solution, it’s important to act promptly to avoid being caught out by future changes. Explore your options today with La Vida’s expert guidance.
