Italian citizenship by marriage: requirements and timelines

Who can apply

You can apply for Italian citizenship by marriage if you've been married (or in a registered civil union) to an Italian citizen for at least two years. This also applies if your spouse acquired Italian citizenship later, for example through naturalization: in that case, the clock starts from the date your spouse became an Italian citizen, if that's later than the wedding.

The timelines to respect

This is where most of the confusion comes from:

• If you live in Italy: you can apply after 2 years from the marriage (or from your spouse acquiring citizenship, if later).
• If you live abroad: the requirement rises to 3 years.
• With children born or adopted by the couple, both timelines are halved: 1 year if you're in Italy, 1.5 years if you're abroad.

A common doubt: if you move to Italy halfway through the waiting period, the time already accrued abroad isn't lost. The cumulative principle applies: the count continues, adjusting to the shorter timeline for those living in Italy.

The Italian language requirement (B1)

Since 2018, it's mandatory to demonstrate at least a B1 level of Italian under the European framework, through a certificate issued by an institution recognized by the Ministry. There are some exemptions — for example, for those holding an EU long-term residence permit — but they need to be checked case by case: they don't automatically extend to similar permits or qualifications.

What you generally need

• ID document and birth certificate, often with apostille/legalization and translation
• Criminal record certificate from your country of origin (valid for 6 months)
• B1 Italian language certificate
• Payment of the required fee (currently €250, plus administrative charges)
• Marriage registered in Italy, and valid and in effect for the entire duration of the procedure: separation, divorce or other causes that end the marriage before the decree will block the application

How long the process takes

Once the application is filed, processing generally takes around 24 months, extendable up to 36 in some cases. It's a process that requires patience, but knowing what to expect in advance helps you avoid surprises and prepare your documents with the right amount of lead time.

The most common mistake

Many people only start gathering documents once they feel "almost ready", losing valuable months in the process. Apostilles, sworn translations and criminal record certificates take time, especially when issued abroad. Starting well in advance, and checking every single requirement, is what really makes the difference between a smooth case and one full of setbacks.