Yes, you can apply for Italian citizenship by marriage if your spouse is a naturalized Italian citizen, provided you meet the marriage duration and other requirements.
Yes, you can apply for Italian citizenship by marriage even if your spouse is a naturalized Italian citizen. The process for applying is the same as for individuals married to Italian citizens by birth. However, there are certain considerations and steps to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Naturalized Italian Citizenship:
If your spouse is a naturalized Italian citizen, they hold the same legal rights as any other Italian citizen, including the right to pass on citizenship to their spouse. The fact that your spouse obtained their citizenship through naturalization does not affect your eligibility to apply for citizenship by marriage. The key requirement is that your spouse is an Italian citizen, regardless of whether they were born in Italy or became an Italian citizen later.
2. Marriage Duration Requirement:
To apply for Italian citizenship by marriage, you must meet the marriage duration requirement:
- 2 years of marriage if you are living in Italy.
- 3 years of marriage if you live abroad.
This period is counted from the date of your legal marriage. If you have children together, the required duration is halved, meaning you would only need 1 year of marriage if living in Italy or 1.5 years if living abroad.
3. Language Proficiency:
Applicants for Italian citizenship by marriage must 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, including those married to naturalized Italian citizens. You will need to provide proof of your language skills through a recognized language test or certificate.
4. Proof of Relationship Stability:
As part of the application process, you will need to provide evidence that your marriage is genuine and ongoing. This includes:
- Joint financial documents, such as shared bank accounts, tax returns, or insurance policies.
- Proof of cohabitation, like a lease agreement or utility bills in both names.
- Photographs or affidavits from friends or family that support the authenticity of your relationship.
This proof is important for verifying that the marriage is legitimate, especially when your spouse is a naturalized citizen.
5. Application Process Through the Consulate:
If you live outside of Italy, you will need to submit your application through the Italian consulate in your country of residence. The consulate will process your application and verify your documents, including your spouse’s Italian citizenship status. Once the consulate confirms that all requirements are met, your application will be forwarded to the Ministry of the Interior in Italy for final approval.
6. Processing Time:
The processing time for Italian citizenship by marriage typically takes up to 2 years, depending on the consulate’s workload and the completeness of your application. Be prepared for potential delays and stay in touch with the consulate for updates.
Conclusion:
You can apply for Italian citizenship by marriage if your spouse is a naturalized Italian citizen, as long as you meet the marriage duration, language proficiency, and relationship stability requirements. The application process is the same for spouses of naturalized Italian citizens as it is for spouses of those born in Italy. Submit your application through the nearest consulate or municipality, and be sure to provide all necessary documentation. With the right preparation, you can successfully apply for Italian citizenship by marriage.