Citizenship by marriage

Cittadinanza per matrimonio

For spouses of Italian citizens, including newly recognized ones.

Who it's for: People married to (or in a civil union with) an Italian citizen.

Requirements

2 years of legal residence in Italy after marriage, or 3 years if you live abroad (halved if you have children together)
B1 Italian language certificate (CILS, CELI, PLIDA or Roma Tre)
FBI background check (or national equivalent), apostilled and translated
The marriage must still be in place when the decree is issued

Timeline: Application online via the Ministry of the Interior; processing up to 24–36 months
Approximate cost: €600 fee plus documents and the language exam
Can you work?: While waiting, you can live and work in Italy on a family permit (permesso per motivi familiari)
Path to permanent: Citizenship on approval

Pros

A clear, rules-based route
You can live in Italy during the process on a family permit

Cons

Requires B1 Italian
Long processing times

Official source: portaleservizi.dlci.interno.it

General information as of autumn 2026, not legal advice. Requirements vary by consulate. Confirm with yours or with a licensed Italian immigration lawyer.