The Many Benefits of Italian Citizenship

What are the benefits of dual nationality with Italy? Why should you consider getting Italian dual citizenship for yourself and your family? Of course, one of the primary benefits that individuals of Italian heritage and their spouses often dream of is visiting Italy as often as they please and experiencing the culture, natural beauty, and rich history of their ancestors.

There are many other amazing benefits of dual citizenship that might tip the scales and motivate you to get started on the process.

NOTE: As of May 23, 2025, major changes to Italian citizenship law (Law 74/2025) have gone into effect. These updates significantly impact eligibility for dual citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis), especially for those claiming through great-grandparents or passing citizenship to future generations.

The Practical Benefits of Dual Citizenship

approved immigration italy application form with rubber stamp

If you qualify under the current law, these are the primary advantages of Italian and EU citizenship:

The ability to purchase property in Italy or another EU country quickly and easily, with a tax discount for your first home in Italy. Retiring and/or living in Italy or a European Union nation is your right as an Italian citizen, and legally buying property is one of the major Italian residency advantages. Property owners may be subject to local obligations, such as the need to pay tax on real estate income or capital gains.
The right to work, with some hiring preferences, inside the EU. For entrepreneurs, dual citizenship greatly simplifies the process for starting a new company in Italy or the EU. Working in Italy is far more difficult if you are not an EU citizen.
Unrestricted travel throughout Italy and the European Union, including access to fast rail lines and legal protections. You enjoy free movement across the Schengen Area and broader EU (Germany, France, Spain, Netherlands, and more)—with no need for separate travel documents or visas between EU nations.

You can even work in other EU countries without being subject to time limitations on how long you can stay. Obtaining an Italian passport and traveling with the freedom of movement of an EU citizen is one of the most important citizenship benefits.

Additional legal and consular protections. As a citizen of two countries, you always have two embassies or consulates that can help you if you encounter issues abroad. You are also covered under the human rights acts and privacy laws of the EU, which may offer additional protections you do not currently enjoy.
No compulsory military service. While some countries still require you to serve in the military, even if you are not a resident of the country, Italy has no such requirements. Since 2005, you and your children are not required to provide military service due to obtaining Italian citizenship.
Access to high-quality public education at very low cost, which is one of the Italian dual citizenship benefits that your children may appreciate greatly. The EU offers higher education to all citizen students who are considered capable and deserving. Tuition rates at top universities may be as little as a few thousand euros per year.
Receive high-quality, affordable medical care, as well as the social, disability, and economic benefits available for all Italian citizen When you become an Italian citizen, you are eligible to apply for your Italian national healthcare card (tessera sanitaria). This provides you with easy access to Italian healthcare at a very affordable cost. You also have access to healthcare in other EU member states.
Qualify for additional financial benefits. As an Italian citizen, you can take advantage of tax-free import of any vehicles and personal property you own from the US to Italy. It also allows you to more easily purchase Eurobonds, unit trusts, and foreign securities, as well as participate in Italian investment funds.
The right to vote in Italian elections, and certain EU elections, or even run for public office—enabling you to be directly involved in the future of your ancestral country and region.
Gain access to 127 countries without additional work or travel visas for you and your family members with your Italian passport. Furthermore, you’ll have the protection of the Italian or EU embassies wherever you travel.
Ability to pass citizenship on to descendants—however, this is no longer automatic or guaranteed. Only direct children or grandchildren of an Italian citizen may qualify, and they must meet citizenship requirements. If your minor children are registered before June 1, 2026 (under the transitional grace period), they can also access these citizenship benefits. Future generational inheritance of citizenship is no longer automatic under the revised law.

NOTE: EU protections apply only once your Italian citizenship is officially recognized and you possess an Italian passport.

Preserving the Past and the Future

Obtaining Italian citizenship for yourself and your minor children is a rare combination of preserving your culture, honoring your ancestors, and moving forward into a brighter and more secure future. Connecting with your Italian heritage and accessing new opportunities may be one of the most meaningful experiences you can provide to your children or enjoy for yourself.

The new citizenship laws enacted in 2025 have placed limits on who may qualify by descent. However, if you meet the updated criteria, or if you filed before March 28, 2025, you may still be eligible to preserve this connection to your Italian ancestry.

To become a dual citizen jure sanguinis (by descent) will involve researching and translating vital records, birth certificates, and application materials. Applying for citizenship is easier with guidance from the Italian American Citizenship Assistance Program. We can help you through each step of obtaining your dual citizenship if you qualify, from access to resources and vital records to translation and apostille services.

Contact ITAMCAP Today

If you or your minor children may be eligible for Italian citizenship, don’t delay—transitional rules and grace periods expire by June 1, 2026. Our team can help you take advantage of these benefits while they’re still available under current law.

Let us guide you through the process of applying at the Italian consulate, gathering documents, and ensuring your application meets the new standards. The benefits of Italian dual citizenship are still within reach.

There is no time like the present to secure the benefits of Italian citizenship. Contact us today for a free telephone consultation to find out how our program can help you navigate the process and realize the dream of full Italian citizenship sooner than you thought possible.