Are you in the process of pursuing Italian dual citizenship through descent? Avoid these common pitfalls! In this video, we will discuss some of the most frequently encountered errors when applying for Italian citizenship based on your lineage.
Misinterpreting the Eligibility Criteria:
When embarking on your journey to obtain Italian citizenship through descent, the initial crucial step is to ascertain your eligibility. It’s important to note that even if you have Italian ancestry (such as a parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent), you may not automatically qualify for Italian citizenship. The eligibility categories for Italian citizenship through descent are as follows:
- Your father was an Italian citizen at the time of your birth.
- Your mother was an Italian citizen at the time of your birth, was not yet a citizen of the US, and you were born after January 1, 1948.
- Your paternal grandfather was an Italian citizen, your father was born in the US, and your paternal grandfather was still an Italian citizen at the time of his birth.
- Your maternal grandfather was an Italian citizen, your mother was born in the US, your maternal grandfather was still an Italian citizen at the time of her birth, and you were born after January 1, 1948.
- Your paternal or maternal great-grandfather was an Italian citizen, your paternal or maternal grandparent was born in the US, and your paternal or maternal great-grandfather was an Italian citizen at the time of your grandparent’s birth.
Underestimating Wait Times at Consulates When Scheduling Appointments:
You might assume that once you’ve gathered the necessary documents, you can simply contact the Italian Consulate to secure an appointment within a reasonable timeframe. Unfortunately, Consulate waiting times tend to be much longer than anticipated due to a surge in demand for Italian citizenship. Appointments are typically scheduled online through the consulate’s website, and many are booked out two years in advance. That’s why it’s crucial to secure a consulate appointment as early as possible in the process. This allows you to collect your required documents while waiting for your appointment. To circumvent the Consulate’s wait time, you also have the option to apply for Italian citizenship in Italy by establishing legal residency. On average, you must be prepared to reside in Italy for a minimum of 60-90 days.
Overlooking Discrepancies in Your Documents:
It’s common for US documents to contain discrepancies in information, such as names, dates, and places. Italian ancestors often made adjustments to their names when they immigrated to the United States. While some name changes may not pose problems, others could lead to issues at the consulate. It’s always advisable to rectify any significant discrepancies prior to your consulate appointment.
Basing Your Application on Incorrect Information:
There is a wealth of information available online regarding Italian citizenship by descent, but much of it is inaccurate. Seeking professional guidance in this process can help you steer clear of unnecessary blunders. If you decide to seek professional assistance, ensure that you choose a reputable company with extensive experience in successfully assisting individuals with their applications.
Contact us today for a FREE Eligibility Screening at (312) 796-9970.