Italy has a rich history of emigration, with millions of Italians leaving their homeland to build new lives abroad. Over the past century, Italians migrated in search of better economic opportunities and stability. As a result, it is estimated that over 60 million people of Italian descent now live outside Italy, particularly in countries such as the United States, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, and Australia. This vast diaspora continues to maintain strong cultural, familial, and economic ties with Italy.
Reclaiming Italian Nationality Through Ancestry
If you have Italian ancestry, you might be eligible to reclaim Italian nationality. Italy follows the principle of “jure sanguinis” (right of blood), which allows descendants of Italian nationals to obtain citizenship, even if they were born abroad. Therefore, if your ancestors did not explicitly renounce their Italian citizenship, you may have the right to claim Italian nationality, regardless of how many generations have passed since your Italian relative left the country.
Moreover, in some cases, descendants of female ancestors may also qualify for Italian citizenship. Historically, women lost their nationality upon marrying a foreign national, but legal reforms have changed this rule. Since 1948, descendants of women who involuntarily lost their nationality due to marriage can now reclaim their Italian citizenship. This change opens up opportunities for many individuals with Italian maternal heritage who previously couldn’t apply.
Benefits of Obtaining Italian Nationality or Residency
Obtaining Italian nationality or residency offers numerous benefits, particularly for those seeking to live in the European Union or take advantage of tax incentives. Here are some key advantages:
1. Free Movement Rights in the EU: As an Italian citizen, you enjoy the freedom to move, reside, and work in any EU member state. This includes popular locations outside Italy, such as the South of France and South of Spain, where many expatriates choose to live. The ability to relocate without a visa gives you unparalleled flexibility to explore new opportunities and enjoy a high quality of life across Europe.
2. Attractive Inheritance Tax Regime: Italy offers a favourable inheritance tax regime, especially for direct heirs. This can significantly reduce the tax burden on families inheriting assets in Italy. For those with substantial estates or family businesses, this is a major advantage when planning intergenerational wealth transfers.
3. The Italian Flat Tax Regime for High-Net-Worth Individuals: High-net-worth individuals can benefit from Italy’s flat tax regime, which offers attractive tax incentives for those meeting certain criteria. This regime allows qualifying individuals to pay tax at a fixed rate on income earned in Italy, while foreign income is often exempt. This can significantly reduce your overall tax liability, making Italy an appealing destination for wealthier individuals looking to optimise their tax planning.
Expert Guidance on Reclaiming Italian Nationality
The process of reclaiming Italian nationality can be complex, especially for individuals with a long family history abroad or high-net-worth individuals with intricate financial matters. Our Chief Legal Counsel for Italy, Federico Regaldo, brings extensive expertise in advising clients on reclaiming their Italian nationality and residency. With his deep understanding of the legal intricacies involved, Federico has successfully guided many individuals through the nationality reclaim process, ensuring a smooth and effective journey.
If you’re interested in reclaiming your Italian nationality or residency, our team is ready to provide expert guidance and support. Contact us today to learn more about how Italian nationality can benefit you and your family.