Italian citizenship by marriage applications may be denied due to issues like incomplete documentation, short marriage duration, or lack of relationship stability.
Applying for Italian citizenship by marriage can be a lengthy process, and there are several common reasons why applications may be denied. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure your application is successful. Here are the main reasons for denial:
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation:
One of the most frequent causes of application denial is missing or incorrect documentation. Essential documents include your marriage certificate, proof of your spouse’s Italian citizenship, criminal background checks, and proof of relationship stability. Failure to submit all required paperwork or any errors in your documentation can lead to delays or outright rejection.
2. Not Meeting the Marriage Duration Requirement:
To apply for citizenship by marriage, you must meet the following duration requirements:
- 2 years of marriage if residing in Italy.
- 3 years of marriage if living abroad.
If your marriage is not long enough, or if you don’t provide sufficient proof of the legal marriage, your application will be denied.
3. Insufficient Proof of Relationship Stability:
You must demonstrate that your marriage is genuine and stable. This can be done by providing joint financial records (such as shared bank accounts or tax returns), proof of cohabitation (like utility bills or lease agreements), and affidavits from people who know you and your spouse. Without this proof, authorities may doubt the authenticity of your relationship, leading to a denial.
4. Criminal Background Issues:
Applicants must demonstrate good moral character. If you have a serious criminal record or have committed crimes that could impact public safety or national security, your application may be rejected. Both a criminal record from your home country and, if applicable, from Italy, will be examined.
5. Failure to Meet Language Proficiency:
Since 2018, applicants must show proficiency in Italian at a B1 level (intermediate) according to the CEFR. If you fail to provide adequate proof of language skills through recognized certifications, your application will be rejected.
6. Fraudulent or Sham Marriages:
If there is suspicion that your marriage is not genuine—such as a marriage of convenience or solely for obtaining citizenship—your application may be denied. Authorities will look for signs of a real, ongoing relationship. Lack of cohabitation, a very recent marriage, or inconsistencies in your relationship history could raise red flags.
7. Divorce or Separation During the Process:
Divorce or separation before meeting the marriage duration requirement can affect your application. If you divorce before completing the minimum required marriage time, your application may be delayed or denied. A divorce after the minimum duration may not automatically disqualify you, but it may require additional documentation or clarification.
Conclusion:
Italian citizenship by marriage applications can be denied for several reasons, including missing documentation, not meeting the marriage duration, lack of proof of a genuine relationship, criminal issues, language requirements, or suspicions of a fraudulent marriage. To avoid rejection, ensure you meet all criteria, submit complete documents, and provide proof of a stable, ongoing marriage.