Understanding eligibility for Italian citizenship in 2025 is more important than ever, especially for those applying through Italian citizenship by descent/ancestry. The minor issue continues to affect applications through Italian consulates and municipalities, but many people still qualify through the Italian courts or by applying through a different ancestor than they originally thought of using. In this follow-up episode of the Italian Citizenship Podcast, hosted by Italian attorney, Marco Permunian, and dual citizen expat podcaster, Rafael Di Furia, we break down the latest updates, how to find out if you are eligible for Italian citizenship, and what options exist for those with a 1948 case, an ancestor who never naturalized, or situations where an ancestor naturalized while their child was a minor.

Recent updates to Italy’s budget law have introduced significant changes to the fees associated with obtaining Italian citizenship by descent, applying through Italian municipalities, and pursuing 1948 court cases. These updates impact application fees and the cost of obtaining vital records, with specific variations depending on how and where you apply. Staying informed about these adjustments is essential for anyone navigating the Italian dual citizenship process in 2025 and beyond. In this episode of the Italian Citizenship Podcast, hosted by Italian attorney, Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster, Rafael Di Furia, we’ll dive into the details of these fee changes, what they mean for applicants, and how to approach the process with confidence.

Italian citizenship provides a gateway to exploring your heritage while unlocking the freedom to live, work, and travel across Europe. Whether obtained through descent, marriage, or other legal routes, it offers significant benefits, including access to the EU’s healthcare system and simplified residency requirements. The process, from registering marriages and births to understanding how citizenship laws apply to children born abroad or in Italy, involves essential steps that can shape your future in Italy and beyond. In this episode of the Italian Citizenship Podcast hosted by Italian attorney, Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster Rafael Di Furia, we’ll learn more about the practicalities of life as an Italian citizen, drawn from their real-life experiences navigating legal requirements and enjoying the unique privileges of Italian dual citizenship in Italy as well as in the European Union.

Italian citizenship by descent has recently been brought before the Constitutional Court of Italy, raising questions about how the lack of generational limits and other aspects align with modern interpretations of constitutional principles. In this episode of the Italian Citizenship Podcast, hosted by Italian attorney, Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster, Rafael Di Furia, we’ll learn more about the implications of this case and what it means for those seeking Italian dual citizenship.

First-generation individuals born outside Italy to Italian parents have unique opportunities to explore Italian citizenship by descent or through ancestry. Key considerations such as dual citizenship laws, residency requirements, and the timing of a parent’s naturalization play a crucial role in determining eligibility. Navigating the available options requires understanding specific processes, but the chance to reconnect with Italian roots and enjoy the benefits of Italian citizenship is well worth exploring. In this episode of the Italian Citizenship Podcast hosted by Italian attorney, Marco Permunian, and dual citizen expat podcaster, Rafael Di Furia, we’ll learn more about the pathways, challenges, and benefits of obtaining Italian citizenship for first-generation descendants.

Rovigo, a picturesque town in Italy’s Veneto region, provides the perfect environment for those seeking Italian citizenship by descent. Known for its accessible layout and welcoming atmosphere, Rovigo offers essential stops like the Comune di Rovigo for citizenship applications and the Agenzia delle Entrate for obtaining your Codice Fiscale, both critical in the Italian dual citizenship process. With lively piazzas, local cafes, and cultural events throughout the year, Rovigo is an ideal spot for anyone looking to experience authentic Italian life while navigating their Italian citizenship journey, combining practical amenities with true Italian charm. In this episode of the Italian Citizenship Podcast hosted by Italian attorney, Marco Permunian, and dual citizen expat podcaster, Rafael Di Furia, we’ll learn more about what to expect when applying for citizenship directly in Italy, the step-by-step process, and life in Rovigo.

A recent update from the Italian Ministry of Interior has impacted the process for applying for Italian citizenship by descent, particularly if an ancestor was a minor when their parent became naturalized. While these changes limit applications through Italian consulates, seeking Italian dual citizenship through the Italian court system remains a viable and successful option. For those affected by these new rules, it’s important to consider alternative routes, such as using female ancestors who may not have been naturalized or were automatically naturalized before 1922, which can provide a stronger case for obtaining Italian citizenship. In this episode of the Italian Citizenship Podcast hosted by Italian attorney, Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster, Rafael Di Furia, we’ll learn more about how these recent changes impact citizenship applications and the best strategies for moving forward.

Recent changes to the process for applying for Italian citizenship by descent have raised some concerns due to the so-called "Minor Issue" or "Minor Age Issue," particularly for those with ancestors who were naturalized when their child was still a minor. While this may affect applications through consulates and municipalities, there are still potential alternatives for those seeking dual Italian citizenship. Understanding how these updates might impact your case is essential for moving forward. In this episode of the Italian Citizenship Podcast, hosted by Italian attorney Marco Permunian and dual-citizen expat podcaster Rafael Di Furia, we'll learn more about the implications of these changes and the possible options for applicants affected by the “Minor Issue”.

When deciding between Italian residency and Italian citizenship, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Residency might seem like the quicker option, allowing you to live in Italy legally, but it comes with certain restrictions, like the need to renew your residency permit and limits on how long you can stay in the European Union. On the other hand, Italian dual citizenship—whether by descent, marriage, or residency—offers more permanent benefits. Not only do you get the freedom to live in Italy without worrying about renewals, but you can also move freely across the Schengen Area and take full advantage of services like the Italian healthcare system. Understanding these differences is essential for anyone considering a move to Italy. In this episode of the Italian Citizenship Podcast hosted by Italian attorney Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster Rafael Di Furia, we'll learn more about the pros and cons of Italian residency versus citizenship, how each affects your ability to live in Italy long-term, and what to consider when making your decision.

When applying for Italian citizenship by descent or considering the elective residency visa for moving to Italy, it's important to stay aware of key factors like ensuring your apostilled documents are current, understanding the travel rules while awaiting a permesso di soggiorno, and tracking down your Italian ancestor's naturalization records. 17:35 - Closing Thoughts & Outro consulate appointments or navigating the process, there are various paths to explore based on your unique circumstances. In this episode of the Italian Citizenship Podcast, hosted by Italian attorney, Marco Permunian and dual citizen expat podcaster, Rafael Di Furia, we'll discuss these hurdles and respond to viewer questions from Verona, Italy.

For help with the Italian citizenship process and more information about Italian Citizenship Assistance visit ICA's website:

https://ItalianCitizenshipAssistance.com

To contact Italian Attorney Marco Permunian and his team of dual-citizenship experts and attorneys you can use the contact form on the Italian Citizenship Assistance website:

https://italiancitizenshipassistance.com/contact/

To see more from Rafael Di Furia about life in Italy and life as a dual-citizen expat check out his YouTube channel and website:

Http://YouTube.com/RafaelDiFuria

Http://RafaelDiFuria.com

#italiancitizenship #italiandualcitizenship #dualcitizenship

Topics & Timestamps:

0:00 – Intro & Opening Thoughts

0:42 - Can documents that are 2 years old and apostilled still be used?

3:29 - What are the travel restrictions for someone waiting for their Permesso di Soggiorno?

5:27 - If someone can't determine if their ancestor naturalized, how can they research it?

8:55 - Why can't someone claim Italian citizenship based on genetics (e.g. DNA)?

12:29 - If your pension is only half of the needed income, will they consider assets?

15:29 - Would it be quicker to apply through Italian courts under the 1948 rule if the father was born in 1913 and the grandfather didn't naturalize until 1918?

17:35 - Closing Thoughts & Outro