The time to get Italian citizenship by descent varies, typically taking 1-3 years depending on the consulate or municipal office's workload.
The time it takes to obtain Italian citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis) depends on several factors, including where you apply and the workload of the processing office. On average, the process can take anywhere from 1 to 3 years, but delays are possible in some cases. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the timeline for obtaining Italian citizenship by descent:
1. Factors Influencing the Timeline:
Several factors impact how long it will take to process your citizenship application:
-
Application Location:
Applications submitted at an Italian consulate outside Italy often take longer due to high demand. On the other hand, applications filed directly in Italy may be processed more quickly, especially in smaller municipalities with fewer applicants. -
Document Preparation:
The time it takes to gather and prepare the necessary documents significantly affects the overall timeline. This includes obtaining birth, marriage, and death certificates, as well as naturalization records, which may require weeks or months to source. -
Workload of the Consulate or Municipality:
The processing time largely depends on the volume of applications at the consulate or municipal office handling your case. Popular consulates may experience backlogs, leading to extended waiting times.
2. Typical Processing Times:
-
Applying Through an Italian Consulate:
If you apply through an Italian consulate in your country of residence, the process typically takes 1 to 3 years. Larger consulates with a high volume of applications may take longer, while smaller consulates may process applications more quickly. -
Applying Directly in Italy:
Applications submitted in Italy may be processed faster, often taking 6 months to 1 year, depending on the municipality’s workload. Establishing temporary residency in Italy and submitting your application there can expedite the process for some applicants.
3. Steps That Affect the Timeline:
-
Document Collection:
Gathering and authenticating required documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, can take several months, especially if you need to obtain records from multiple countries. -
Apostille and Translations:
All non-Italian documents must be apostilled and translated into Italian, which can add additional time to the preparation phase. -
Verification Process:
Once submitted, the consulate or municipality will verify your documents and lineage. This step often accounts for the longest portion of the timeline, as it involves checking the accuracy and authenticity of all submitted materials.
4. Delays and Common Issues:
Delays may occur due to:
- Incomplete or incorrect documentation.
- Backlogs at the consulate or municipality.
- The need for additional information or corrections.
5. Tips to Expedite the Process:
-
Ensure Complete Documentation:
Submit all required documents in the correct format to avoid delays caused by missing or incorrect paperwork. -
Choose the Right Location:
If possible, apply in Italy through a smaller municipality with fewer applications to reduce waiting times. -
Work with Professionals:
Hiring an Italian citizenship expert or legal professional can help streamline the process by ensuring your application is complete and error-free.
6. Conclusion:
The process of obtaining Italian citizenship by descent typically takes 1 to 3 years, depending on factors such as where you apply, the completeness of your documents, and the workload of the processing office. Preparing thoroughly and choosing the best application location can help minimize delays and speed up the process.