You can apply for Italian citizenship by marriage if your marriage is less than two years old, but the required wait time depends on your residency status.
If your marriage is less than two years old, you can still apply for Italian citizenship, but the process depends on where you live and how long you have been married. The general rule is that you must meet specific marriage duration requirements before you can submit your application, and this timeline is impacted by your residency status.
Requirements for Applying for Italian Citizenship by Marriage:
1. Marriage Duration Requirement:
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Marriage Duration of 2 Years if Residing in Italy:
If you and your spouse are living in Italy, you must be married for at least 2 years before you can apply for Italian citizenship. The two-year period starts from the date your marriage is legally registered. However, you can only submit your application once this time frame is met. -
Marriage Duration of 3 Years if Residing Abroad:
If you live outside of Italy, the marriage duration requirement is 3 years. The time begins from the legal date of marriage, and you must fulfill this period of marriage before applying. The 3-year requirement can be shortened if you have children together, as it is reduced by half.
2. Reductions for Children:
If you and your spouse have children together, the marriage duration requirement is halved. This means:
- 1 year of marriage if living in Italy.
- 1.5 years of marriage if living abroad.
This reduced timeline acknowledges the added familial ties and responsibilities associated with having children.
3. Language Proficiency:
Regardless of how long you’ve been married, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the Italian language at a B1 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This is a necessary step in the application process and can be fulfilled through recognized language tests or certificates.
4. Proof of Relationship Stability:
Applicants must also show that their marriage is stable and ongoing. This can be demonstrated through joint financial documents, tax returns, and proof of cohabitation. If your marriage is under two years old, you may be asked to provide additional proof of its stability, especially if you are applying within a short period after your marriage.
5. Special Conditions for Shorter Marriages:
If you are applying for citizenship within the first two years of marriage, be prepared for the possibility of additional scrutiny. In most cases, the authorities may request more documentation to confirm the legitimacy and continuity of the marriage.
Steps to Apply for Italian Citizenship by Marriage:
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Ensure You Meet the Marriage Duration Requirement:
Confirm whether you meet the two-year requirement if living in Italy or three years if living abroad. If you have children together, the duration may be reduced. -
Complete the Language Proficiency Requirement:
You will need to show that you have at least a B1 level of proficiency in the Italian language. Obtain a recognized language certificate to fulfill this requirement. -
Submit Your Application:
Once the marriage duration requirement is met, you can submit your application. Include all necessary documentation such as your marriage certificate, proof of relationship stability, language proficiency certificate, and criminal record checks.
Conclusion:
While the standard requirement for applying for Italian citizenship by marriage is that you must be married for at least 2 years (if residing in Italy) or 3 years (if living abroad), there are certain exceptions if you have children together. If your marriage is less than two years old, you can still apply, but you must meet specific requirements and be prepared for a longer application process. The Italian authorities will ensure that the marriage is legitimate and stable before granting citizenship.