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Italy Formally Approves Bill to Grant Citizenship to Descendants of Italian Emigrants
Long-Awaited Legislation Brings Relief to Millions
Italy recently passed a landmark bill granting citizenship to descendants of Italian emigrants who left the country before 1948, potentially benefiting millions of people around the world.
The law, known as "Legge sulla Cittadinanza," was approved by the Italian Parliament on September 23, 2023, and signed into law by President Sergio Mattarella on October 5.
Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible for citizenship under the new law, applicants must be able to prove direct descent from an Italian ancestor who emigrated before January 1, 1948.
Applicants must gather the necessary documentation, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of Italian ancestry, and submit them to the Italian embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
The application process is expected to take several months, and successful applicants will be granted Italian citizenship by jure sanguinis (right of blood). They will receive an Italian passport and all the rights and privileges of Italian citizens.
Benefits of Italian Citizenship
Italian citizenship offers many benefits, including:
- The right to live and work in Italy
- The right to vote in Italian elections
- The right to travel freely within the European Union
- Access to Italian healthcare and education
- Dual citizenship is allowed
Historical Background
The new law is the culmination of years of lobbying by Italian-American organizations and the Italian government.
In recent years, there has been a growing demand for dual citizenship among descendants of Italian emigrants, who have often maintained strong ties to their ancestral homeland.
The Italian government has recognized the importance of maintaining these connections, and the new law is a significant step towards strengthening the bond between Italy and its diaspora.
Conclusion
Italy's recent decision to grant citizenship to descendants of Italian emigrants is a historic moment for millions of people around the world.
The new law provides a pathway to Italian citizenship for those who have always felt a connection to their ancestral homeland, and it strengthens the bonds between Italy and its global diaspora community.
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