In brief
Italy has restricted citizenship eligibility, allowing only direct descendants (parents, grandparents) to apply for Italian passports, due to application overload and perceived abuse of the system.
Italy has announced new rules tightening its citizenship eligibility, just as many were hoping to claim Italian passports based on heritage. Previously, anyone could apply if they could prove they had an Italian ancestor who was alive after 1861. However, the surge in applications, particularly from South Americans, has overburdened courts and consulates. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized in a press conference that the government must respect the seriousness of Italian citizenship. This change now limits eligibility to those with direct ties — either parents or grandparents — essentially shutting the door on many who sought an Italian passport mainly for easier travel. "It's not a game to get a passport in your pocket to go shopping in Miami," said Tajani. The measure is aimed at addressing what he referred to as "years of abuses" in the citizenship process.
