In recent months, a distorted narrative has been circulating in the Italian media regarding the recognition of Italian citizenship, especially concerning the work of agencies that prepare documents for citizenship by descent.
This narrative has served as the basis for dubious political proposals, and in some cases, with racist and xenophobic overtones. It is time to clarify, responsibly, what is really happening.
1. No agency sells passports or citizenship
This is the first and most important point: There is no sale of citizenship or passports.The Italian passport, as well as citizenship, can only be granted by the official authorities of the Italian State — whether through consulates, courts or communes, within the national territory.
The agencies that operate in this market do not sell citizenship. They provide documentary advisory services, helping descendants of Italians to organize the necessary documents to start the legal process. This includes translation, apostille, document rectification and legal advice. Everything within the law.
If there is any illegal sale of passports or citizenships, it is by Italian civil servants, as recent reports have shown. These cases must be investigated rigorously and those responsible must be punished to the fullest extent of the law.
2. The role of consulates and reality
Unfortunately, Italian consulates in countries like Brazil have long demonstrated resistance to the process of recognizing citizenship iure sanguinis, whether due to extreme bureaucracy, lack of structure or an institutional stance that discourages this legitimate right of descendants.
Many descendants of Italians hope 10, 12 or even 15 years for an appointment at some consulates. In this scenario, seeking the process directly in Italy, with professional help, it's a perfectly legal path — and often necessary.
3. What agencies actually do
These agencies have no power over consulates or communes. They do not have “privileged access” to any public authority. What they offer is:
- Organization and review of required documents;
- Support in scheduling with the Italian comune;
- Support during the process in Italy;
- Assistance with temporary housing.
Some agencies promote promotional campaigns or discounts at certain times of the year. This is not illegal. It is common market practice in any service sector.
4. The “scapegoat” narrative
The recent Decree-Law that changed the legislation on Italian citizenship appears to be based on a series of... misleading narratives, with unfounded accusations that “passports are being sold in Brazil”.
This manipulation of facts has a clear objective: justify a tightening of citizenship laws, in an attempt to restrict the legitimate right of millions of descendants around the world.
This policy has been driven by sectors that propagate views xenophobic, racist and deeply elitist, afraid to see people from South America access their rights.
5. What needs to be clear to Italian legislators
It is essential that Italian senators understand that:
- Agencies do not sell citizenship, they only provide a documentary and logistical service;
- The recognition process in Italy is legal, guaranteed by the Constitution and jurisprudence;
- The problem are not the descendants of Italians, but rather the historical negligence of consulates that push citizens towards alternative solutions;
- Using this issue as a political weapon is dishonest and damages Italy's image abroad.
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