The Many Benefits of Italian Citizenship

What are the benefits of dual citizenship with Italy and 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 some other amazing benefits of dual citizenship with Italy and the United States which might tip the scales and motivate you to get started on the process.

The Practical Benefits of Dual Citizenship

approved immigration italy application form with rubber stamp

Consider the many benefits of dual citizenship available if you are eligible to become an Italian citizen:

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 purchasing Italian real estate is one of the major Italian residency advantages.
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 Italian citizen.
Unrestricted travel throughout Italy and the European Union, including access to fast rail lines and legal protections. You can travel and even work in other EU countries without needing a visa or being subject to time limitations on how long you can stay. Obtaining an Italian passport and traveling with the freedom of an EU citizen is one of the most important citizenship benefits.
Additional consular and legal 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
Access to high-quality 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 that 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 citizens. When you become an Italian citizen you are eligible to apply for your European Health Insurance Card, which provides you easy access to medical care in Italy and other EU countries at a very affordable cost.
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, foreign securities, and 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 with your Italian passport. Additionally, you’ll have the protection of the Italian or EU embassies wherever you travel.
Gain automatic citizenship and access to the Italian citizenship benefits for your children under the age of 18, and generations to come. Once you obtain your Italian dual citizenship, it is preserved and available for your children, and their children as well. By completing the process, you eliminate the possibility that your descendants might be unable to claim their place as part of Italy in the future.

Preserving the Past and the Future

Seeking 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.

To become a dual citizen jure sanguinis (by descent) will involve researching and translating vital records, birth certificates, and application materials. Applying for Italian dual 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.

There is no time like the present to secure the benefits of Italian citizenship. Contact us today 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.