Visas
      Back to home
      1. Movingto Knowledge Base
      2. Italy
      3. Visas

      What happens if my Italian citizenship by marriage application is rejected?

      If your Italian citizenship by marriage application is rejected, you can appeal, address issues, and reapply with corrected documentation.

      If your Italian citizenship by marriage application is rejected, it is important to understand the reasons for the rejection and explore the available options to address the issues. Here’s what happens and what you can do:

      1. Reasons for Rejection:

      Applications for Italian citizenship by marriage may be denied for several reasons, including:

      • Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation:
        Missing, incomplete, or improperly authenticated documents can lead to rejection.

      • Failure to Meet Language Requirements:
        Applicants must demonstrate B1-level proficiency in Italian. Failure to provide a valid language certificate can result in denial.

      • Insufficient Marriage Duration:
        If the required marriage duration (2 years if living in Italy, 3 years if abroad) has not been met, the application may be rejected.

      • Relationship Validity Concerns:
        Authorities may reject the application if they suspect the marriage is not genuine or ongoing.

      • Criminal Record Issues:
        If the applicant has a criminal record or poses a security risk, the application can be denied.

      2. Notification of Rejection:

      You will receive a formal notification from the Italian Ministry of the Interior or consulate explaining the reasons for rejection. This letter will provide details about the specific issues with your application.

      3. Steps to Take After Rejection:

      • Step 1: Review the Rejection Letter:
        Carefully read the letter to understand the reasons for denial. This will help you determine how to address the issues.

      • Step 2: Correct the Issues:
        Depending on the reason for rejection, you may need to:

        • Submit missing or corrected documents.
        • Obtain a valid language proficiency certificate.
        • Provide additional evidence of the validity of your marriage.

      • Step 3: Appeal the Decision:
        You have the right to appeal the rejection. This process involves:

        • Filing an appeal with the appropriate Italian administrative court (TAR - Tribunale Amministrativo Regionale).
        • Providing additional evidence or documentation to support your case.
        • Hiring a legal expert specializing in Italian citizenship cases to assist with the appeal.

      4. Reapply After Addressing Issues:

      If you do not choose to appeal, you can reapply for Italian citizenship by marriage after resolving the problems highlighted in the rejection letter. Ensure that your new application is complete and meets all requirements.

      5. Avoiding Rejection in the Future:

      To increase the likelihood of approval, follow these tips:

      • Double-Check Documentation:
        Ensure all documents are complete, properly translated into Italian, and legalized or apostilled.

      • Meet Eligibility Criteria:
        Verify that you meet all requirements for marriage duration, language proficiency, and criminal record checks before applying.

      • Consult a Legal Expert:
        Seek assistance from a legal professional or citizenship consultant to ensure your application is accurate and complete.

      6. Conclusion:

      If your Italian citizenship by marriage application is rejected, you can appeal the decision or reapply after addressing the issues. By carefully reviewing the rejection letter, correcting any problems, and ensuring your documentation is accurate, you can improve your chances of success in subsequent applications.