Yes, you can apply for Italian citizenship by marriage if your spouse is a dual citizen, as long as they are an Italian citizen.
Yes, you can apply for Italian citizenship by marriage if your spouse holds dual citizenship, as long as they are an Italian citizen. The key factor in the application process is that your spouse must be an Italian citizen, regardless of whether they are a dual citizen or not. Here’s how this works and what you need to know.
Eligibility for Citizenship by Marriage with a Dual Citizen Spouse:
Italian Citizenship by Marriage:
When applying for Italian citizenship through marriage, the main requirement is that your spouse must be an Italian citizen. If your spouse holds dual citizenship, with one of those nationalities being Italian, it does not affect your eligibility to apply for citizenship by marriage. The process is based on your marriage to an Italian citizen, and dual citizenship does not change the requirements.
Marriage Duration Requirement:
To apply for citizenship through marriage, you must meet the standard marriage duration requirement. This is typically:
- 2 years of marriage if you and your spouse live in Italy.
- 3 years of marriage if you live abroad.
If you have children together, the required duration is halved.
Other Requirements for Citizenship by Marriage:
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Language Proficiency:
Regardless of whether your spouse is a dual citizen or not, you will need to demonstrate proficiency in the Italian language at a B1 level (intermediate), according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This applies to all applicants for citizenship by marriage. -
Proof of Relationship Stability:
You will need to show that your marriage is stable and ongoing. This can be demonstrated through joint financial documents, tax returns, and proof of cohabitation. -
Criminal Record Check:
Applicants must submit a criminal record check from both their home country and from Italy (if applicable). A clear criminal history is necessary to meet the good moral character requirement for citizenship.
How the Dual Citizenship of Your Spouse Affects the Process:
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Dual Citizenship Does Not Affect Your Application:
The fact that your spouse is a dual citizen (for example, both Italian and American) does not affect the process of your citizenship application. What matters is that they are an Italian citizen. The dual citizenship status of your spouse has no bearing on your eligibility or the documentation required. -
Proof of Spouse’s Italian Citizenship:
You may need to provide documentation that confirms your spouse’s Italian citizenship. This can include their Italian birth certificate, passport, or other official documents that prove their nationality. This is necessary to verify that your spouse is indeed an Italian citizen, even if they hold another nationality as well.
Steps to Apply for Italian Citizenship by Marriage:
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Ensure Eligibility:
Confirm that your spouse is an Italian citizen, even if they also hold another nationality. Make sure you meet the marriage duration and language proficiency requirements. -
Gather Required Documents:
Collect all necessary documents, including your marriage certificate, proof of your spouse’s Italian citizenship, your language certificate, and proof of a stable relationship. -
Submit the Application:
Submit your completed application for citizenship at the appropriate municipality or consulate, depending on your place of residence.
Conclusion:
You can apply for Italian citizenship by marriage if your spouse is a dual citizen, as long as they are an Italian citizen. The process follows the standard requirements for citizenship by marriage, including meeting the marriage duration and language proficiency criteria. The dual nationality of your spouse does not affect your eligibility or the steps required for your citizenship application.