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Citizenship

Language becomes a requirement in Italian naturalization processes

New rule only affects people who are not related to Italians in their bloodline

Italian naturalization
Language becomes a requirement in Italian naturalization processes

 

The rules for those who wish to apply for Italian naturalization have become more stringent. Through the Salvini Decree, which has become law, the Italian government will require prior knowledge of the language through a proficiency test.

the candidate for Italian naturalization You will need to reach at least level B1 — which is equivalent to intermediate — for the process to be completed. The rule applies both to those who live in the European country and to those who have started their Italian naturalization in Brazil.

This new regulation only affects people who do not have any relationship with Italians in their bloodline — that is, those who seek naturalization through marriage or those who do so through time of residence in Italy.

People who have some ancestor in their lineage — without limit of generations — are considered Italian citizens from the first day of life, even if they were born in foreign countries, they can apply for citizenship without going through these proficiency procedures, because they are under the guardianship of the jus sanguinis (right of blood).

Although it is already in force, the proficiency exam requirement will have to be attached along with other documentation, but it is not known at what point. The Italian government has not yet regulated the issue.

Another change was the increase in the fee charged by the Italian government to execute the Italian naturalization of people through marriage. Now, it has risen to 250 euros; previously, it was 200. Furthermore, the period that the State has to complete the process has increased to a maximum of four years; Before, there were two.

For those who wish to naturalize:

For residents of Italy

  • Live in the country for at least 10 years.
  • Prove annual income, per person, of 8,5 thousand euros. 11,5 thousand euros per family nucleus.
  • No criminal record.
  • If married to an Italian citizen, ratify a two-year bond if you do not have children and one (1) if you have a child.

 For non-residents

  • No criminal record.
  • If married to an Italian citizen, ratify a 3-year bond if you do not have children and 1,5 years if you have a child.

To apply for Italian citizenship

  • Have Italian descent in any generation.
  • Prove the relationship through Italian birth, marriage and death certificates (all in full) and also the Brazilian certificates of family members until reaching the generation requesting the request.
  • The ascendant cannot have become a naturalized Brazilian.
  • All documents must be properly translated by a sworn translator and apostilled.
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