Learn the documents needed for Italian citizenship by marriage, including marriage certificate, language certificate, and criminal record checks.
Applying for Italian citizenship by marriage requires a specific set of documents to prove your eligibility. These documents confirm your marriage, legal status, language proficiency, and clean criminal record. Here’s a detailed list of the documents you need to apply:
1. Marriage Certificate:
Your marriage must be officially registered with the Italian government. Provide the following:
-
Estratto per Riassunto dell’Atto di Matrimonio:
If you were married in Italy, request this document from the Comune (municipality) where the marriage took place. -
Registration of a Foreign Marriage:
If the marriage occurred abroad, ensure it has been registered in Italy and provide a copy of the certificate issued by the Italian Comune.
2. Birth Certificate:
Submit your original birth certificate, which must include:
- Full name, date, and place of birth.
- Legalization or apostille (if required) based on the issuing country.
- A certified translation into Italian.
3. Proof of Italian Language Proficiency:
Demonstrate your B1-level proficiency in Italian by providing:
- Language Certificate:
A certificate from an accredited institution such as CELI, CILS, PLIDA, or CERT.IT. - Educational Exemption:
Proof of completing education in Italian, if applicable.
4. Criminal Record Certificates:
Provide certificates of good conduct from:
- Your Country of Origin:
A police clearance certificate issued by your country of birth. - Other Countries of Residence:
Certificates from all countries where you have lived since the age of 14.
These documents must be:
- Recent (usually issued within the last 6 months).
- Translated into Italian and legalized or apostilled as per international agreements.
5. Valid Passport:
A copy of your valid passport or equivalent travel document, including all personal details and expiry date.
6. Proof of Residency (if living in Italy):
If you are residing in Italy, provide:
- A residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno).
- A certificate of residency issued by your local Comune.
7. Application Fee Receipt:
Pay the required application fee (currently €250) and include the receipt as proof of payment.
8. Additional Documents for Children (if applicable):
If you and your spouse have biological or adopted children, include:
- Their birth or adoption certificates.
- Proof of their Italian citizenship or registration.
9. Optional Supporting Documents:
- Proof of Cohabitation:
Documents showing that you and your spouse live together, such as joint utility bills or a rental agreement. - Affidavits or Declarations:
Statements affirming the authenticity of your marriage and your intention to reside with your spouse.
10. Submitting the Application:
- Submit your application online through the Italian Ministry of the Interior portal or at the Italian consulate in your country of residence.
- Ensure all documents are complete, translated, and legalized as required.
11. Conclusion:
To apply for Italian citizenship by marriage, you need documents such as your marriage certificate, birth certificate, language proficiency certificate, criminal record checks, and proof of residency (if applicable). Preparing these documents thoroughly ensures a smooth application process and increases your chances of approval.