So You’re an Italian Citizen, What’s Next?

Becoming an Italian citizen is a major milestone. After this, it’s essential to understand the next steps to fully enjoy your new status. Whether you plan to live in Italy or abroad, there are several important tasks to complete to start enjoying the benefits.

Living in Italy

As a new Italian citizen residing in Italy, there are several administrative steps you need to take.

1. Apply for a Carta d’Identità

The first step is to apply for your carta d’identità or Italian identification card. Italian ID cards are crucial for everyday activities in Italy, such as opening a bank account or renting an apartment. To obtain your Italian ID card, visit your local Comune (municipal office) with your proof of residency and citizenship.

2. Obtain a Codice Fiscale

The codice fiscale is an Italian tax code, similar to a social security number, and is essential for all financial and administrative activities in Italy. You need it for employment, opening bank accounts, and even for some online purchases. To obtain your codice fiscale, go to the Agenzia delle Entrate (Revenue Agency) with your identification documents and proof of residency.

3. Apply for a Tessera Sanitaria

Next, you need to apply for the tessera sanitaria, the Italian health insurance card. This card grants you access to Italy’s healthcare system. To get your tessera sanitaria, register with your local Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL) office. You will need your residency certificate, codice fiscale (tax code), and identification.

4. Apply for an Italian Passport

Finally, apply for an Italian passport to travel freely within the EU and other countries with which Italy has agreements. Visit the local Questura (police headquarters) with your ID card, two passport photos, proof of citizenship, and completed application forms. Having an Italian passport makes international travel much easier and allows you to take advantage of visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to many countries.

Living Abroad

If you plan to live outside Italy, there are a couple of key steps you should take.

Register with Anagrafe degli Italiani Residenti all’Estero (AIRE)

Registering with AIRE is mandatory for all Italian citizens residing abroad for more than 12 months. This registration ensures you receive vital services and maintain your voting rights in Italy. You can register at your nearest Italian consulate or online with the appropriate documents.

Apply for an Italian Passport

Even if you live abroad, having an Italian passport is crucial. It serves as proof of your citizenship and simplifies international travel. Visit your nearest Italian consulate with your Italian identification card, proof of citizenship, and the required documents to apply for your passport.

Not Yet an Italian Citizen? We Can Help

If you don’t yet have dual citizenship, the Italian American Citizenship Assistance Program (ITAMCAP) is here to assist you. We guide individuals through the process of gaining Italian citizenship, assisting with genealogy research, document verification, translations, and more. Contact us today to start your dual citizenship journey.