2025 Changes to Italian Citizenship by Descent: What the Tajani Decree Really Means

Citizenship by Descent
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June 17, 2025
Last Update
June 17, 2025

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Citizenship by Descent

2025 Changes to Italian Citizenship by Descent: What the Tajani Decree Really Means

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If you're pursuing Italian citizenship by descent in 2025, you’ve probably heard the buzz around the new “Tajani Decree.” Let’s break down what’s actually changed, what hasn’t, and why your path to citizenship is still very much alive.

⚖️ What Is the Tajani Decree (Law 74/2025)?

On May 24, 2025, Italy passed Law 74/2025, informally known as the Tajani Decree, which introduces new limitations on automatic recognition of Italian citizenship by descent through administrative channels (such as consulates and comuni).

Under this new law:

- Only individuals whose parent or grandparent was born in Italy and never renounced their citizenship can continue using the standard consulate/comune process.
- Those with great-grandparents or earlier ancestors, or cases involving naturalized ancestors, may now be required to petition the Italian courts directly.

However, it’s important to note that the law’s vague language and lack of formal implementation guidelines (via Circulars from the Ministry) work in our favor.

Don’t Panic – Here’s Why

Despite online chatter and misinformation, we remain extremely confident in our ability to secure Italian citizenship for qualified clients. Here’s why:

1. The Law Is Constitutionally Vulnerable

The Tajani Decree violates key protections enshrined in the Italian Constitution:

- Article 3 (Equal Protection): The law discriminates based on generation and timing.
- Article 24 (Proportionality): It denies rights without individual review.
- Article 25 (Legal Certainty): It applies retroactively, erasing citizenship rights already established.

These flaws create strong grounds for legal challenges, and our team is already preparing strategic responses.

2. Italian Courts Will Be the Best Avenue

We expect the courts to rule against the retroactive restrictions. Italian judges have a long-standing tradition of upholding constitutional rights, and many legal scholars believe the Tajani Decree won’t survive judicial scrutiny.

If your case requires judicial filing (like 1948 maternal-line claims or lineages beyond grandparents), rest assured—we’ve been successfully handling such court cases for years.

3. Established Precedents Are On Your Side

Italian courts have already set precedent in:

- 1948 cases, where women passed on citizenship even before they were legally recognized to do so.
- Generational claims, where the spirit of the law supports recognition of heritage, not arbitrary cutoffs.

What This Means for Your Case

Why We’re Not Worried

- Court is Familiar Territory: We've successfully processed hundreds of judicial petitions.
- Legal Grounds Are Solid: The Tajani Decree is likely unconstitutional and unenforceable long-term.
- 1948 Cases Continue Unaffected: These always required court intervention and remain viable.

What You Should Do Next

1. Stay in Touch with Your Mobility Advisor
They’ll provide specific guidance tailored to your lineage and strategy.

2. Keep Gathering Documents
Continue collecting your birth, marriage, and naturalization records as planned.

3. Trust the Legal Process
Our legal team is preparing airtight constitutional arguments.

A Word on Online Misinformation

Since the decree’s announcement, non-legal influencers have been flooding TikTok, Reddit, and Facebook groups with misleading interpretations. Many offer definitive opinions without legal training or access to updated legal commentary.

Be cautious of anyone stating things like “you’re no longer eligible” or “this law ends citizenship by descent” without nuance or legal context.

Instead, trust licensed professionals who understand constitutional law, court precedent, and the nuances of Italian legal systems.

Our Commitment to You

The Tajani Decree doesn’t end Italian dual citizenship by descent—it simply shifts the path forward for some. Whether through consulates or courts, we’re here to navigate every step with confidence, precision, and a deep understanding of Italian law.

We're not backing down—and neither should you.

FAQs

What is the Tajani Decree (Law 74/2025)?

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Can I still apply for Italian citizenship by descent in 2025?

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Does the Tajani Decree affect 1948 cases?

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I have an Italian great-grandparent. Am I still eligible for citizenship?

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Is the Tajani Decree final?

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Will I get a refund if I’m no longer eligible due to this law?

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Should I be worried about misinformation online?

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Why is going to court now required for some applicants?

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Is the consulate process still available for some applicants?

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How can I continue preparing my citizenship case under this new law?

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Conclusion

Interested?

Dive into the American Diaspora White Paper downloadable document now.

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