I have a question you might be able to help with. My father and his father ( and family ) migrated to the USA from Palermo in the 60’s. My father unfortunately was one of the biggest mobster criminals in American history and in one of the cases I read he was deported back to Italia. I was the result of an affair he had here in the USA and he is on my birth certificate. I was born in 1986 and haven’t had any luck finding his birth certificate or don’t know how to do that. I do have his father and mothers complete names. I guess what I’m asking is what I be able to be granted Italian citizenship ship through my father? Thanks for any help
I got my citizenship through my great grandfather, so it’s definitely possible. Brexit was an absolute disaster, and I feel sorry for all those people who were affected and could do nothing about it.
IMPORTANT don t do it through Consulates , bureaucrats/government are a joke, go to Italy , pick a small city and do the paperwork in Italy, save so much time. GO TO ITALY.
Less documents and much more flexible with photocopies, not only originals so much easier and faster. So much more friendly in a small town when you tell them you are going back to your origins, that is how they said it. Residence done now waiting a few months to receive my citizenship@@DavidsDoseofItaly
That is awesome! Thanks for sharing your experience! I guess it depends on the comune, but since they don't get a ton of those requests they aren't bogged down with requests like the consulates are. I went to Torre Del Greco in 2005 for my great-grand-parents documents. they were nice enough but also because I was patient, spoke the language decent enough and I had a list of names and birthdays.
Hi there, in my case my grandpatents both were italians. I know dates, but I dónt have any document, I just have a copy of an aunt who could get the italian passport, what would you recommend to me@@kndrg13
Thanks for this video, very informative! I'm 2nd gen American-Italian and both sets of grandparents are from Italy but I did not know about the 1948 cases and if they were born before Italy became a country - luckily I still fit that criteria so definitely would like to get dual citizenship.
Grazie David! Things get complicated. My paternal great-grandfather (Italian) went to the United States in 1927 (New York then Boston). My Italian grandparents (paternal) came to Canada in 1957, and my father (born in Italy) was 11 at the time. My father became a Canadian citizen in 1969, but I was born in 1971. I've made an appointment at the Italian consulate (November), so we'll see what happens.
Hi 😊. I’d explore the route via your great grandfather as the other one may not be possible. I did mine via my great grandfather. Best of luck , keep me posted
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Thanks, I have my father's birth certificate (from the parish register) but the consulate wants the birth certificate from the communal register. So I'm going to ask for my father's, my grandfather's and my great-grandfather's! I don't want to take any chances! As I mentioned, it can take years to get an appointment at the consulate!
@@DavidsDoseofItaly I just spent more time reading the law. There's no way around the fact that my dad was a Canadian citizen when I was born. He broke the chain.
It's great that this video is still getting comments regularly. It is really helpful. My paternal GGF born in 1878 came to the US from Italy in 1910 and he did not become a citizen until 1930 according to the USCIS. My grandfather was born in the U.S. in 1913 so I think I might have a chance. The challenge is finding out where my GGF was born. We have a handwritten scrap of paper that has his name and Provincia di Salerna, Centola Italy, San Severino. I'm not sure where to start but I hope to get the ball rolling soon! BTW - I'm a fellow Nutmegger!
Hey Joe! Cool that you’re from Connecticut! Which part. I’m closer to MA. Tolland (the only exit for UConn) I’d say you have a good chance of becoming an Italian citizen Just make sure that you have all the correct information and a complete family tree. if there are any name discrepancies, you will need to have documentation which explains that. So San Severino and Centola are two different towns so you’ll need to figure out where he was from these two towns. You could always write to both and then see who responds Use chat gpt to write it in proper Italian.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Hi David - We're down in Westbrook. And thank you for the advice! When writing the officials, what document should I request? Is it a birth or baptism record?
Hello! I was wondering how you acquired this information through the USCIS--was there a form that you had to fill out to request when your GGF became a US citizen? I'm trying to find the same information for my GGF. Thanks!!
I’ve got mine in 2013. I’m an italian born in Brazil. I have the hardest time trying to explain my american-italian friends why they would want an italian citizenship. Do that for me, please.
I like how you used the term American-Italian because that really is accurate. Most people of Italian origin, in my opinion are more American than they care to realize. I myself learned this when I first moved to Italy. Anyway, that's a great idea for a video and to be honest I am a bit surprised people need a convincing explanation as to they might need Italian citizenship. Quite simply it's another option in life. You never know if it'll come in handy. Suppose you get a great job offer in Dublin for example. As an Italian citizen you don't have immigration problems or obstacles that prevent you from working there. Or, your children might want to take advantage of it eventually as I did. The same reason I made my daughter a US citizen. Hopefully she stays in Europe at least!
Hey! I took a DNA test and appeared that I’m 15% Italian and 17% Greek south italian… so that’s mean one of my ancestors is italian (not a far a generation) so if I prove the right documents and find out who is the Italian in my family, can i apply for the passport?
I was a 1948 case. It is possible to get Italian citizenship under these circumstances but it's long and expensive. It involves starting judicial proceedings in Italy and success is not guaranteed. Instead of the Consulate, it's better to contact a service for getting citizenship; especially since you'll need a lawyer, and these companies have attorneys they work with regularly. Regarding the Italian Consulates in the U.S., they have backlogs for citizenship requests measured in years. For example, before I found out I was an ad materna case, I was looking at almost a 2 year wait to get in to the Italian Consulate in Chicago.
David, you make it sound a lot easier than the research I have done which I am being told requires a lot of notarized and translated documents. All of my grandparents immigrated to the US from Italy, specifically Sturno (Naples). In my case, my paternal grandfather became a citizen in 1931 but my father was born in 1923 therefor I qualify by right of blood. However, I have a lot of documents to provide, birth, marriage & death certificates. Interesting note my uncle Joe the last remaining member of my father's family retired to Italy at age 70, but because he was born in 1933 after my grandfather (his father) became a U.S. citizen he did not qualify. My uncle solved this problem by meeting a nice Italian lady on the train one day and they have been married for 16 years (yes he's 86) living in Arona. He longer has to renew his residency papers. My goal is to retire to Italy as well. Ciao
Hi Frank. The whole process isn’t easy in all honesty. My case was easy as I said in the video however it took me three years and multiple consulate visits. This video represents the easiest of the whole process which is finding out eligibility. I say easy because there are harder obstacles in getting your citizenship such as getting the right documents , apostilles , translation etc. I do plan on doing another video on this topic and I’ll cover all this. Don’t worry. In regards to uncle Joe if I were him I’d double check and see if he is in fact ineligible. It’s a legal issue and God knows there are loop holes. I’m not making any promises but it’s always better to check and get all the facts. Sturno. Never been there but I lived with a guy who is from a neighboring town Ariano Irpino. Btw these towns are more Avellino than Napoli. Wow! That’s cool how you want to retire here ! I suggest you develop multiple income streams to support yourself in the future. Guaranteed money I did a video on that. Hope it helps! ua-cam.com/video/snHTOQphLho/v-deo.html
Frank, Steve Romano here doesn't get anymore italian than this last name right ? Ok my Dad was born in 1924 here in Trenton NJ, his father (my grandfather) who I never met .. Came over from Naples through ellis island .. I am almost 100% sure that my grandfather took citizenship after my dad was born in Trenton , I was the youngest in my family . I don't ever remember my Grandparents . However I do have family members that might be able to help me. My mother who's parents (my grandparents) was from Bari .. My mom passed away at 33 and I was 3 yrs old , but all her relatives live in Fresno Ca and I have never talked to them but last name was Diliddo , my moms parents came over as well from italy so from either side , I believe I should be able to get citizenship in Italy.. I have to talk to family members but I know , I qualify , I just need help to do what David told us to do.. Do you have any suggestions ?
@@Stevensocal If you don't have all the documents and if your not in a major city close to an Italian consulate office it is difficult to do it yourself, If you have the money I would hire some Like these guys ua-cam.com/video/btYtdTNGSX8/v-deo.html
My case is that my maternal great-grandparents (Philip and Mary) were born in 1884 and 1882 somewhere in Italy. Philip said in documents he was from Minturno (Lazio). They came to the US in about 1910 and settled in New Jersey around 1917. I have census records from that same location from 1920-1950. I obtained a record online of a Declaration of Intent signed by Philip in 1921, but he didn't seem to go through with next steps. It says on the 1930 census that he and his wife were naturalized, but in 1940 he only had his first papers, so the first one would have expired and he had to start the process over again, I'm guessing. Sometime between 1940 and 1950 he and Mary were naturalized. My maternal grandmother was born in 1927, and my mother was born in the 60s. I am trying to obtain naturalization records from the courthouse they would have gone to in the capitol of their county. I am unsure if I am eligible at this point. If the naturalization happened after my grandmother turned 18, sometime in late 1946, do you have any knowledge if I'd be eligible?
Hi, based on the information that you provided me, it would seem that you are eligible. I think though that you would have to go back to your great grandfather because women who were born before 1948 we're not able to pass on citizenship to their children unfortunately. Two years ago, while I was back home, my father found a declaration form signed by his grandfather but fortunately he never went through the process to become a US citizen. Good thing for me.
Booking an appointment for Citizenship by Descent at local consulate is the roadblock; demand for appointments greatly exceeds supply and the booking system seems impenetrable. I could spend a year trying to get an appointment and I'll never get through. Too bad, my cousin made it through years ago and has the documentation. Timing is everything.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly believe it or not, I was presented with an appointment last night one week out. It had to be a cancellation, but I finally got through Citizenship by Descent. I am submitting all my document requests tomorrow and my cousin has a translator who is thrilled to get more of our families business. I could not take that appointment, but I figure I will have everything ready and translated by spring!
@daviddoseofitaly: my GGF was Italian, but all the papers about it has gone in the world war first and second. We do not even have his birth certificate. Gone. He was trying to get it from the Italian embassy and they told him it is gone it's gone in wars, no papir trail. Is there anything that could be Done?
Hi David. Thanks for this video. Apologize if this question has been asked but i'm curious if a petition for naturalization is different from the certificate. My great grandfather came to the US and petitioned in 1918. He had my grandfather in 1924 and then received his certificate of naturalization in 1929. Would this make my grandfather an italian citizen without being aware of it? Thanks!
Hi, thank you for watching! It would appear so, and this is exactly what happened in my family. Actually, a few years ago, my father found a petition for naturalization. I believe that’s what it was. Apparently my great grandfather had intentions of becoming a US citizen, but he never did. Even if he did, I think my grandfather had already been born so I still would’ve gotten it anyway.
My GGF was Italian and through that connection I'd like to request IT citizenship. However, all papers were lost in WWI, WWII and Balkans wars. I don't even have his birth certificate. I'm pretty sure documents were lost in IT during time, as well. I don't know much about my GGF so I can't provide info. Should I keep on going that way, or simply quit and go for another visa type? Thanks! 😊
I thought I responded to this but I’ll do it again. I’d check with the actual town hall and see what they have. To hell with the embassy! Also try contacting the Catholic Church in that town as they’ve been known to keep town records of that type. That’s what I did and apparently both them and the town hall (ufficio anagrafe ) didn’t lose everything during the wars. I mean it may be true what the embassy told you but then again that sounds like passing the buck. Let me know what you find out.
Hey David, I know this is two years old but I tought it was worth a shot trying to ask for help seeing if i was eligible or not, My 2nd great grandfather was born in Italy (1871) had my great grandfather (1899) and then one year later arrived to the US (1900) he became a citizen in 1906, would this disqualify me or would it be fine since he became a citizen after my great grandfather was born. Appreciate any help if you see this cheers from Alaska.
Hi! Both sides of my great grandmothers naturalized automatically through marriage before 1922. So in a 1948 petition in court, is it more convincing (ie: twice as strong) to a judge to see that the citizenship by descent exits - because both great grandmothers passed citizenship down to respective sides of applicant's grandparents, which then passed their citizenship down to applicant's parent - to applicant? So, in theory, are two heads better than one?
I am not so sure about that one however I do know that people have gone to court and challenged the 1948 rule and they usually win. Keep a reminder that the most important thing is the year of birth of the first child born outside of Italy. For example, if your grandmothers still retain their Italian citizenship and had children after 1948, then under Italian law, she was legally able to pass down her Italian citizenship Anyway, don’t be afraid to challenge the 1948 rule
I’m looking on ancestry. The records were easy enough to find. But I don’t know if they were naturalized or not. How do you find out? Also on the immigration list from Ellis island, it’s stated that my great grandma was already married to a “ Vincenzo” . I see that her husband’s name on the marriage record is Phillip or Phillipo. I don’t know if she remarried or if it’s his middle name or nickname . She goes by 2 names concetta and concettina very confusing
Hi. Contact USCIS and request a search of your ancestor. If they never naturalized like my great grandfather then you’ll get a letter back that says no records found. To speed up the process try the tip that I mentioned in this video. Ah yes. Cettina vs Concetta. My mother in law’s birth name is Concetta but the nickname is Cettina.
Hey great video! My great grandfather came over when he was a one year old in 1901. My great great grandfather naturalized in 1916. My great grandfather had my grandma in 1926. My great grandfather then became a US citizen in 1943. Would my great grandfather have been naturalized at 16 because his dad naturalized? Does that make me illegible or because he didn't get his US citizenship until 1943 after his daughter's birth make me eligible? Thanks!
Hi. I believe being naturalized meant that your great grandfather became a US citizen. Make sure that you are clear about what happened in 1916 and 1943. If your great grandfather became a citizen before the birth of your grandfather, then you may not be able be eligible. Make sure that you’re not confusing naturalization with the intent to become a citizen What do I mean? My great grandfather was never a US citizen and so therefore I was able to become an Italian citizen. However, we discovered a document which declared his intent to one day, become a US citizen but fortunately never did. Might you be referring to this? Let me know.
Hi David. American 🇺🇸 citizen with a Tuscan war bride mom living in Taiwan 🇹🇼. Do you know of any downsides of getting my Italian citizenship, such as tax obligations? I’ve fulfilled my American 🇺🇸 military service obligations long ago and I’m 1000 years too old to be drafted in Italy 🇮🇹! Is there anything else I need to know about? Grazie!
David, I read that a judge needs to determine heritage passed through a female. Can that be done at the Consulate in the US? Or does it need to be done in Italy?
I am Italian-Brazilian and I would like to ask Italian-Americans what is the main reason for leaving the USA. In my case, leaving Brazil for Italy or another country in Europe makes sense due to the lack of prospects in my home country. However, you were born in the United States, a country that, in theory, offers more opportunities. So what drives this change?
To be honest, I initially left mainly because I was in love with my Italian heritage, and I wanted to get better at the language and get to know the country better Also, when I left, I was 29 and I really didn’t have anything in the states. I didn’t have job a house a family or anything like that I also had some reservations about the US and its culture, but that really wasn’t the main reason 15 years on I am relatively happy here although it depends on the day I think another big reason why I left is because I prefer the healthcare system here. It has its problems, but honestly, I will take my chances here.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly I understand your point of view and thank you very much for responding to my comment. Next year, I'm also going to Italy and I hope my experience is as positive as yours.
Hey David a question about my eligibility, My Great Great Grandfather never became a U.S. Citizen and, and my great grandfather was born in italy, but eventually naturalized at 19. Do you think I still have a chance?
Hi, so my great mother was from Italy but it was a part of Italy that was under Austrian rule at the time and is now part of Croatia but my mom and her mother have always known their heritage to be Italian. Do you think I’d still be able to get citizenship in this situation
I investigated on the ancestry websites and found out I have both a great great grandfather whose last name is Grosso (italian) and one whose last name is Francisconi (also italian). However, I believe none of them were actually born on Italy, but common sense suggests there is an ancestor actually born in Italy for both of them (or else how would they have gotten their last names). The problem is that ancestry websites don’t go further than 1800s in my case, so I was wondering if these last names were enough to get it. I have access to all sorts of documents for these people, just can’t find the older ones who were born in italy.
Hi! Thanks for your video!! My dad was 13 when he came to the USA in 1976, from Accera. I believe he eventually became a US citizen. Might I be eligible to apply for dual citizenship for US and Italy?
Hi ! Glad you enjoyed it. Try and find out if he is (or was) a US citizen. Then determine if this happened before or after your birth because if he became a US citizen BEFORE you were born then you might be out of luck. That all goes out the Window if he became a US citizen after 1992. Hopefully you qualify!
Yay! Thanks for replying! I believe he became a US citizen before 1992. My mom's parents came here from Caserta, so my mom was born here but they were married in 1985...so if she was born here, that would make him a us citizen by marriage? I'm thinking? 🤔
No not necessarily. For example my wife is Italian and she is not a US citizen. So at this point try and figure out if your parents became a US citizen before or after you were born. I’m willing to bet that you are probably eligible! Let me know I’ll be curious.
This is making my head spin a little bit 😁. My grandfather was born in Italy, but came to America when he was around 10 years old. Where do I go from there to determine if I'm eligible?
@@DavidsDoseofItaly He passed away in 1988, so I can't provide any information in that dep't. I was born in 1979. He most definitely gained US citizenship decades before I was born. Does that information help? Thank you for the response! 🙂
So in general, if your Italian parent acquired US citizenship or any foreign citizenship before your birth and before 1992, it was considered as renouncing their Italian citizenship, and therefore null and void for their children. However, via a comment by another viewer, just like yourself, it has been brought to my attention that if you are a child of an Italian parent or a grandparent, you might be able to get italian citizenship just by living here for three years. If you’re prepared to do that, then the next step you need to do is to apply for permesso di soggiorno which will allow you to live here and also work here without a visa. I hope that helps.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Thank you so much for the thoughtful and informative reply. I have more questions, but I will follow up tomorrow. God bless you all!
@@DavidsDoseofItaly I am a laborer who works on private yachts, and there are plenty of marinas up and down the coast of Italy that could keep me employed. I do "brightwork" on boats.
What’s the best way to find documented ancestry? Is there a good website out there? My GGF migrated from Italy around 1913. I’m not sure if he obtained US citizenship at all, but they had a son in America shortly after. Just looking to get started in this process. I’ve wanted to for so many years.
Hi. I never needed them at least for the purpose of finding out who was from Italy and then using that ancestor to obtain Italian citizenship. I’d hit up ancestry.com to start with. You could also contact the catholic church as they have their own records which years ago in Italy was the officially record keeper of the people.
Hi great video! I'm doing my genealogy which I found my great grand father Nicola Sciascia was born on 13 April 1840 in Trani, Bari, Italy, to Maria Gaincinta Di Toma and Carlos Sciascia. Nicola then moved to New Zealand when he was in he's thirties. I'm not sure if you can go back this far to be able to qualify for passport. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Carey Chambers
Hi. Thank you 😊. Yes you can. I asked the Italian consulate in New York the same question in 2008. They said as long as you have the correct documentation for everybody, including the ancestor then technically there are no limits in how many generations you can go back.
Much ❤️ Would you know where in Italy I could apply for my great grand dads birth certificate (Nicola Sciascia) which would disclose his parents (Maria Gaincinta Di Toma and Carlos Sciascia)? In New Zealand it's very easy to apply for my grandmother's cert ( she was born here NZ Vs Italy) which will include he's parents ( Nicola& Maria) details. I am very new at this but any help would be greatly appreciated ❤️
@@careychambers6641 since you said he was born in Trani, if you can, I would actually go there in person because when you’re there face-to-face, you get much better results. I did this myself in 2005 and I am sure that I saved myself a lot of headache and frustration. You want to go to the ufficio anagrafe and I’m willing to bet that they’re open from Monday through Friday from seven to noon. If that’s not possible, then you want to contact them via email and send them a PEC email. Use chat gpt to translate your email into Italian if you need it and also specify exactly the full name and date of birth. You will also need your ancestors marriage certificate so ask for that too.
An email sent via PEC (Posta Elettronica Certificata) is an email sent using a certified email system that is legally recognized in Italy. PEC provides a way to send emails with legal value, equivalent to a registered letter with return receipt, ensuring that the email's content and timestamp cannot be altered. If that’s not possible, I’m sure regular email will do
I have a strange situation and I'm not sure how open and shut it will end up being. My GG Grandfather was born, I believe around 1875 in Piedmont, Italy. His wife was an Irish housekeeper and he was a cook (although family oral history says chef and quite a good one at that, who knows). My G Grandfather was born in 1901 but I am struggling to get the actual birth certificate, just some other documentation that lists the date of birth and his brother's and parent names. G Grandfather was born in Connecticut apparently. My GG Grandfather from Italy tried to naturalize in 1906 and signed the intent document but there's no official document of the naturalization actually occurring although the intent document basically vows "intent" to forfeit allegiance to the prior country. Anyway, it's a mess, can't even find the G Grandfather's birth certificate, anything from Italy for sure from the GG Grandfather although the marriage certificate lists the names of the parents and I can find THEM in Italy. My poor G Grandfather was given to an orphanage by his mom after my GG Grandfather died of brain cancer at 36, I found that document of his death once and lost it.
Hello. that's an interesting story, Thank you. Don't worry about the intent to forfeit. My GGF did that but he never followed up and he remained an Italian citizen. For the missing documents unfortunately there is no way around it as the consulates want them. You might want to hire a service provider to help you.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Yeah it sounds like it is going to be a costly endeavor. I already have a US Government agency looking into the naturalization documents. What else did I need? I don't have a birth certificate, it's more of a ledger in Italian. I have a marriage certificate, the intent to naturalize, the ledger for both of his sons being born, no death certificate and I don't know if I can find that.
My maternal great-grandfather was born in Recale Italy. I actually have his naturalization certificate. It's dated 1913. He was born in 1880. Does anyone know if this makes me ineligible for citizenship?
Is it important for the parent to be born in italy?what if the parent is not born in italy but stayed in italy for a long time and obtained citizenship after sometime left italy but the children of that parent are also born in italy and they also had italian documents which are now expired. Can they apply for citizenship if not is there any other way?
Hi David, I looked into this process so long ago and gave up on the idea. I'd been told that my great grandparents were naturalized citizens, so I didn't bother investigating. (GGF born Italy 1889, in America 1916, GF born 1931) Well, an ancestry site updated a census (1940) with their household (after all of their children were born, including my grandfather -1931) and it states that both great grandparents had filed paperwork but weren't naturalized yet ("Pa" on the census form). I was quite shocked and am in the process of having a private company do the initial investigation. I have my great grandfather's petition for naturalization from 1924, which made me assume the process was complete and my grandfather was NOT born an Italian citizen. I also made a USCIS inquiry recently so I can find for certain if he was even fully naturalized. My fingers are crossed here! BUT, I may also have a 1948 backup because my great grandmother's petition for naturalization was from 1938, meaning all of her children were born before she even started the paperwork. This whole process intrigues me to no end! I am fairly certain I qualify one way or another. I know it's a long process and I am willing to do the third party agency to make sure all documents are in order. Maybe someday I'll be uploading a video of my citizenship process :) Cross your fingers for me, please.
It seems you have a shot. Contact homeland security and ask them to search their records for your great grandparents. I did that and it came back No records found. My ggf, from whom I got my citizenship, also petitioned for US citizenship but never got it fortunately With regard to the 1948 cases , don’t forget it’s only a problem if the children of the Italian born grandmother were born before 1948. Do double check this but I think this is the case.
We just discovered who my grandma’s father was, he was an Italian immigrant. Through ancestry we were able to find marriage certificates, birth certificates and such. But we are still trying to find out what his status was by the time my grandma was born. Hoping we have a case! I’d love to be a dual citizen to Italy.
The way to establish that is to reach out to either homeland security or the national archives and request a search. They usually look through old censuses. The wait can be a bit extensive and in this video I made a suggestion of contacting a local politicians office. It can’t hurt
Hi! I'm looking into this so my husband can get his citizenship. His great great grandfather came to the US but as far as I know his first child (not my husband's great grandfather) was born in Italy. I believe he naturalized before my husband's great grandfather was born, so does that make my husband ineligible?
Hi there David I have a quick question: You claim that for Italian Citizenship by Descent there can be no "Naturalization Break" in the blood line, but then you claim to that you got my citizenship through my grandfather and make no mention of your father as if it mattered not. Please explain. Thanks
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Sorry for taking your time... but you still did not answer my question about "Naturalization Break." By the way, I'm asking because I'm trying to figure things out. Thanks
@@GiuseppeNataleDiCristiano Oh my apologies, I read your question wrong. So, I am not sure what I said about my father but he wasn't the crucial player here. What matters is that my great-grandfather did not become a US citizen BEFORE the birth of my grandfather. If he had done that Italian citizenship would not have been able to be passed down via the generations. Fortunately he never became a US citizen. Does this answer your question?
I’m not sure what you mean by first papers. My ancestor, for example, signed a declaration that he had the intention to become a US citizen, but he never did. I think this is what you mean by first so if that’s the case, then you should be good to go.
So I'm filipino, but I'm adopted and my father is of italian heritage. My Grandfather was born 1928 and his parents immigrated here from Italy through Ellis island. Would I still be eligible even though I don't have any italian by blood?
Hi im canadian, my mom is sicilian, born in italy, moved here at 6 years old, she is a permanent resident in Canada, she never got her citizenship! I assume it should be easy for me but i dont understand anything on the consolate website, do you know what documents i would need from my mom ?
Hi Sara. To address this question, if you're looking to claim Italian citizenship through your mother's lineage, you would typically need to provide several documents. These often include your mother's birth certificate from Italy, proof of her permanent residence in Canada, and potentially her marriage certificate if applicable. You would also need to provide your own birth certificate and any other relevant legal documents. I don’t know how it works in Canada, but you’ll need a letter from homeland security or whatever your equivalency is that your mother never became a Canadian citizen.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly well I have all the documents ..the problem with the documents from the United States is that they're old and need to be Updated ...I got the birth certificates and the atti di matrimonial from Italy in 2019...so I need to get the documents apostled and translated into italian from the US .I have a appointment with the Los Angeles counsolete April 2022 but I don't think I'll have everything ready by then...we'll see
@@DavidsDoseofItaly he's a lawyer and translator for the Los Angeles Consulate.I have all original documents from 1912, 1913 ,1941 etc... he said they need to be certified copies with current dates .I can get copies from the different states( counties )that the documents were issued in.of course this takes time and money.then I have to have the documents apostled from the secretary of states they were issued from ...which is more time and money...I also have an issue with my grandfathers confirmation name..it doesn't show on his birth certificate but he used it throughout his life..The lawyer said that might be a problem with the italian government.as you know..your trying to prove your lineage thru these documents..so there shouldn't be irregularities..but this is real life not a fantasy so it's not always possible...
Ah ok, I can see where documents that old might need to be updated. Oh yes, the Italian consulate wants any name irregularities to be explained. The whole process is an investment in time and money but in the end it's totally worth it. Let me know if you have any more questions and I'll do my best to answer them.
Ok, so my great grandfather born in italy came to the US and had 7 children. If he became a US citizen say after the 5th child, would that mean only the first five and their descendants would be eligible? My grandfather was the last born. Or are you saying that he just had to have had his first child in the US prior to obtaining US citizenship and then all his children would be eligible?
The latter situation. Italian law dictates that at the time of birth your Italian ascendent must still have been an Italian citizen in order to pass on his citizenship. The other 5 would be eligible and the last 2 no I’m afraid and the citizenship stops there. Check with the consulate anyway. Best of luck!
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Ok. Well I am not sure if or when my great grandfather became an American citizen. I think he did. So if he didn't do it until after my grandfather was born, I would be eligible as far as that regulation goes. Correct? Thank you David!
Hello. I want to see if a qualify. My father is full italian so are my grandparents. But they all moved to australia... So my great grandparents were born in Italy. My grandparents born in Tunisia. My father born in Tunisia. They then moved to Australia and became naturalized. My grandparents used to have italian passports but then became naturalized so do not anymore. Do you think I have a chance? Or no because they moved to Australia Thanks
Hi. Sure. I don't think it matters where they moved to but rather what your ancestors citizenship status was when they moved abroad and if they kept being Italian citizens. I am guessing your dad acquired Italian citizenship since Tunisia was under Italian control during the war. If that is so and he was an Italian citizen at the time of your birth AND you were born after 1947, then it would seem you are elegible. Check with your local consulate to be sure.
My great great grandparent's came here but didn't get naturalized until the 40s after they had 11 children, 4 of which were in the military. Would this eliminate my chances?
@@ADashnawMKIBC Yes because if your ancestors came to the USA (or wherever you're from), remained an Italian citizen, and THEN had 11 children, they and all their descendants are elegible, or at least should be. I don't have all the details but that is the main prerequistite: No renouncing of Italian citizenship. Renouncing was done and seen as taking another citizenship.
My maternal grandparents came from Nevelli, L'Aquila, Abruzzo in Italy. They came to the United States in 1914. I would like to find out if I could become an Italian citizen. I've been lucky enough to visit Italy twice and enjoyed it very much.
My father is from Italy living in USA, I’m not sure if he was an Italian citizen when he had his first child (my oldest brother) but I know he was not an Italian citizen when he had me in 1991. If he had his first child while maintaining Italian citizenship would that mean the rest of his kids, including myself, qualify for dual citizenship?
That is correct. He could easily get it back. I have a friend who was born in Italy but moved to Canada as a child. At some point he lost his Italian citizenship but he managed to get it back about five years ago. So if your dad is interested he might be able to get it back.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Thanks for the reply! OK so if my dad gets his Italian citizenship back would that mean I could get Italian citizenship? I am interested in moving to Italy currently in USA.
Hi I was wondering if you could help me with fill out an ELECTION BALLOT for the coming election in Italy. I have dual citizenship. I live in Madison Wisconsin and I would like to vote but nothing is in English and I don't even know how if I should be checking boxes or writing in the names - it's a very different ballot compared to here in the states - any help you could give me would be great. Thanks
Hi. Oh I know what you’re going through. I know because I used to receive these ballots while I was still living in Connecticut and indeed it is much different than the American system. If I remember correctly I think you have to put an X over the name or political party that you want to vote for. Let me know if that helps if not let me know anyway!
Hi David, My grandparents on both sides had their kids born in Italy then came over and became citizens in the 1950s. Does this mean I am ineligible? Both my parents and grandparents were all born in the same town in Italy Prezze. my great grandparents remained in Italy.
Hi Anthony. That's actually my middle name but I never use it. So if you are eligible or not, this all depends when the kids, who were born in Italy, became US citizens. I will give you an example for my family, my dad's uncle moved to the United States when he was two years old and then became a US citizen in his late 20s. After that, my dad's first cousin was born. This means that this cousin is ineligible because at the time of his birth, his father had become a US citizen, and thus had given up his Italian citizenship. My father and I are eligible, because the Italian immigrant in our family was my father's grandfather, and he never became a US citizen. In essence, my father and his cousin are the same generation, however, their Italian immigrants are different people
@@DavidsDoseofItaly thank you so much! I just found out my grandmother on my mother’s side never got citizenship in the states!! I’ll start the process for applying now. Amazing news!!
Hey, I was born in Italia, but both of my parents are Egyptians. Can I become an Italian citizen? I left Roma when I was 4 years old and I’m 24 right now living in the US.
Your first step is to find out where exactly your grandfather was from. Next to find out if he retained his Italian citizenship throughout his life and if he became a US citizen or a citizen of different country, what was his citizenship status at the time of birth of your parent?
Good afternoon sir To apply for citizenship if your ( certificato storico di residence) as cut cut but you actually 10 years in Italy YOU can apply for it
Is it possible to get my duel citizenship from my great grandfather who never had a US citizenship? How do I ask for his documents in italy? (He jumped ship, then swam to Mexico, then crossed the border to America)
Sure that is exactly how I did it. If you can go to Italy and get the documents in person that is really the best way and that’s what I did. Otherwise you will need to hire a service provider. You could, of course write to the Townhall yourself and requested information, but you would need to give them specific information as far as the exact name and date of birth if your Italian is nonexistent, write it in English and then maybe you could use chatGPT to translate it.
From the sound of it, you do. I would make sure however, that you get all the details to get a clear picture. Nevertheless, that is one of the key requirements.
quick question, My blood brother already have his citizenship (Italian Passport) in Brazil but I'm here in USA living here for 21 year American and Brazilian Citizen as well. can I still be citizen of 3 different countries? My Brother have the process number from everything he went thought. I'm here in Connecticut as well and not sure what to do to apply for me my wife and daughter. please help me not sure what to do. THANK YOU
Oi! Sim que pode ter 3 passaportes. If you’re worried about repercussions from the US government, don’t be. Uncle Sam doesn’t care if you have any foreign passports (as far as I know), all they care about is if you’re legal in the USA. Since you’d be getting Italian citizenship the way I did, jus sanguinis, via your birthright, then this means you were already born an Italian citizen and so there is no swearing allegiance to Italy or renouncing your Brazilian citizenship. You just need to have it officially recognized at an Italian consulate or in Italy. Question. Are you able to add your name to your brother’s application and thus you can also get your Italian citizenship (and your family) the same way he did? My sister wants to do the same thing I did, but I am not sure she can. De onde fica no Connecticut se posso te perguntar? Sou de Tolland.
My father was born in NY in 1932. His father’s date of declaration was prior to that but his date of naturalization was 1944- After the birth of my father. Am I eligible? Thank you.
Hi. Based on what you just told me, it would seem so. My great grandfather also filled out a declaration form with his intention to become a US citizen, but he never became a US citizen so it paved the way for me to inherit his Italian citizenship.
Is it just that they couldn't become a citizen before their first child was born, or more specifically they couldn't become a citizen before the child who became your grandfather was born? Thanks!
Hi Tommy. So as long as the Italian immigrant retain their Italian citizenship, and at the time of birth of their first child born abroad, then the child inherited Italian citizenship. Unfortunately, things became more complicated when the Italian immigrant was a woman, and the first child born abroad was a girl before 1948. In that situation, you will need to challenge the Italian government but fortunately, from what I've been hearing this is a winnable case
Im working on this now, for whatever reason, my great grandfather changed the spelling of our last name when he came to Ellis island. I hope I can make this happen
Oh I think that’s fixable. Not seeing it’ll be easy but others have had this problem and have fixed it. I got lucky in this case as my great grandfather kept the original spelling. Best of luck!
Hello, Both my Great-grandfather and Great-grandmother imigrated from Italy to the States, but I dont know when. They had my Grandfather in 1919 in NY and I found a 1940 Census that says my Great-grandfather was an Alien under naturalization. Im assuming that will make me eligible. What is the typical cost of applying of Italian Citizenship now, and should I contact someone for assistance? Thanks for the video. I would of never known and now Im hoping to get my citizenship atleast for my sons sake.
Hi. Yeah if the 1940 census shows him as being an alien then it was seeing it would seem you’re eligible. This was my situation too. I’m not sure what the costs are to be honest because I did it myself but if you go through an agency you might be spending upwards of 4000$. I’ve seen this number from two of my subscribers and from two different websites. I would make a list of all that you need and next to it write down the cost for it. You’ll also need translations of all US documents and apostilles which are done at US Capitols. They aren’t difficult fortunately ; I got the bulk of them from Boston. Since your ancestor was never a US citizen that makes things a bit easier. A service provider however might be the way to go if you feel this is all over your head especially if you need help getting documents from Italy. I went to Italy myself (before I moved here ) and did it in person. Let me know what you decide to do
Thanks for reaching out. I have one question that maybe you would be able to help me out with. Its my mothers, father, father that was born in Italy which would make him my Great-grandfather. My Great-grandmother also imigrated to the States and was never naturalized like my Great-grandfather. I found a company that would obtain the birth Certificates from the town they were born in at a cost of $350. Would my Great grandfather documents be good enough of do I need both my grandparents? Its his last name that im tied too. Thanks
That's a great question. I didn't need it but that was back in 2008 so things may have changed and it may also depend on the individual consulate. So definitely ask them if you can. If they're unreachable I'd find citizenship groups on FB for example and ask them or check for a similar question in their group history.
I'm trying to do what you did but I can't get the USCIS papers because I can't find the birthdate for my greatgrandfather, or greatgrand mother, I'm wondering if I went to the NYC conculate if they could assist me in this. I can find plenty of things including I know where they were born and death records. I just can't find birth or marraige certificates and I'm wondering if they'd be able ot willing to provide help so I could try and apply for citizenship, if I'm even able. Any ideas if I should approach the consulate for help in this endeavor?
Hi. Why don't you go to the town hall where their death certificates are? I did this back in 2008 and on the death certificate it lists where and when they were born. It should also list date of death, otherwise what kind of death certificate is it?! Alternatively, if that doesn't work you could contact the town in Italy where they were born and request this information.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly I honestly hadn't thought about that. They were in NJ when they came to this country so I'd have to check there. A bit more of a trip for me, unless I call them, but I can try that - ty. ^_^
If you were born in Italy, then why are you trying to regain your Italian citizenship? Did you renounce it somehow? I have a friend who was born in Italy, and moved to Canada as a young boy, and he, in fact he did lose his Italian citizenship. Somehow, though he was able to regain it back.
It’s crazy. I was born in 1946. My father was a soldier that was in North Africa then ended up in Naples during the occupation. My father is first generation born in US. My brother and I finished the family tree of both my fathers parents who were born in Sarno Salerno. So my teenage uncle brought my father home to meet his family. He my parents feel in love and married in March 4, 1945. I was born March 26, 1946. My father was sent home before my birth. My mother left her family. We arrived in Us June 1946.
Can you help me get residency in Italy arriving on another passport?... only because I'm in Europe, and I don't want to fly all the way back to my resident country, get the italian passport, then fly to italy. Is it possible for me to just go to italy and start with registering residency in italy, then get my italian passport after that? (I have my italian citizenship papers with me!)
It is entirely possible to get residence here without being a citizen. To do that you either need to buy property or find someone who is willing to let you declare residency there.
Hi David, I’m wondering if you can assist me with identifying my eligibility. I’m looking to acquire citizenship through my grandfather who was born in Italy (1928-2016), my father was born in Argentina (1957), then they moved to Canada and became citizens in 1976 (no Argentinian citizenship was acquired except for my father’s birth). It was before 1992 that they became Canadian citizens, but it was not before my father was born. Does this mean that I’m still eligible?
Hi Kris. It would seem so but do verify it. If your grandfather was still an Italian citizen at the time of your fathers birth then I believe you’ve got a green light. My case is somewhat similar in the fact my great grandfather was still in Italian citizen at the time of birth of my grandfather. All men. All with the same last name so my case was relatively easy.
@@pat564I found out that I don’t qualify for Italian citizenship because when my father immigrated to Canada, he became a Canadian citizen years later in 1976. Since it was before 1992 (when Italy recognized dual citizenship), Italy considered it an automatic denouncement of Italian citizenship, thus leaving me with a broken line
Hello. My maternal grandparents came to England from Italy in 1968 but neither ever became British citizens, and my mother is a citizen of both the United Kingdom and Italy from birth (1970). Do you think that I have a case or are my chances null and void?
IF your mamma is italian, you are an italian too, because it's in your blood. is she registered at the Italian Consulate where she lives, AIRE? is that one the same consulate for you? do the research and go of it!!
@@marcelaviglianchino8053 She was registered Italian as well as British at birth in England but she doesn’t have her Italian birth certificate in her possession. If it’s anywhere, it’d be at my grandparents house. I’m not even sure if she even registered with AIRE because she never lived in Italy and never used any consular services to get an Italian passport or anything like that.
@David's Dose of Italy I have a question about my right to Italian citizenship through my ancestors. If my great great grandfather was born in italy(Sicily), he had children in italy, then years later they moved to the USA with his family would I qualify to gain Italian citizenship based on my ancestors being from italy?
Hi James. That depends on whether any of foreign born children is your grandfather/grandmother and if they were still Italian citizens at the time of birth of your parent. In my video for example, my dad's Uncle Tony was 2 when he arrived in America. He became a US citizen and then after had his first child. This child forever lost his right to Italian citizenship as far as I know. Can you give me some more details?
@@DavidsDoseofItaly I have an older dad whose father immigrated here when he was a kid (Ellis Island), so I guess it’s just a matter of finding the documentation for it? So you think an attorney for it isn’t necessary? What steps should I take?
I don’t. It’s really not complex. Your first step should be to establish where your grandfather was from in Italy Once you do that, you will need to obtain his birth certificate from the ufficio anagrafe from that town. You will need to write that in Italian and if you use ChatGPT, I think it can really help you.
am i eligible if my father was born in italy and was an italian citizen but then emigrated to canada and then i was born after my dad became a canadian citizen?
It doesn’t look good but I would get all the details and maybe look to acquire it via your mother. If by any chance, your father became a Canadian citizen after 1992 it might be possible. I said get all the details, because I have a friend who was born in Italy, and moved to Montreal when he was two. He became a Canadian citizen, but somehow I was able to re-acquire his Italian citizenship. I think when it comes to legal matters there are always exceptions and loopholes.
David, I have the same situation as you ! I currently live in Cebu Philippines, formally from Reno Nevada I am a Disabled U.S. Army Veteran. Is there a way I can talk to you ? I urgently need help !
Hey David! Thank you for your video. I’m Argentinian, living in NYC. I qualify for Italian citizenship but I don’t know if the Ny consulate will ask me for something else as I’m an international student living in nyc. Do you have any idea? Thank you!
Hey Matias! No they'll just ask you for pertinent life documents like Birth, marriage, death and divorce. they also want to know of any name changes especially when women are involved in the process
I just ordered my grandfather's birth certificate from Italy. My grandparents were born in Italy, married in italy then moved to France. They did not give up their italian citizenship, My mother was born in France. What next?
I just learned about this and think it’s so cool! My GGGF and GGGM on a 1925 census were both put down as aliens and my GGF was 5 at the time and born in New York. I think this makes me eligible? They were both from Cerda, Palermo, Sicily. I did get a little worried about the 1948 rules, but thankfully it was passed down from GGGF-GGF-GM(born 1946). I am assuming this keeps me eligible as she was born under the Italian FATHER at the time? I understand that she automatically got citizenship through her father rather than her mother? I hope this means I am eligible. I currently am living in South Korea teaching English, and I have been thinking about moving to Italy in the next 2-3 years. It would be so much easier to do so with an Italian passport. It will also be wonderful to share with my nana that she could get a passport and visit me 😁 Thank you for making this video! It was very helpful.
Hi Ashley. It is indeed a very thrilling feeling when you inherit Italian citizenship in Via an ancestor. Based on what you have told me I think you would be eligible because at the time of your great grandfather‘s birth his father was still an Italian citizen because being an alien I think means that you were still a citizen of your former country. That is exactly how I acquired my Italian citizenship via my great grandfather. I would contact your nearest Consulate and confirm this though. I agree if you want to teach English in this country it would make it a lot easier if you were an Italian citizen. On that note I think you would make more money teaching English in Korea than Italy , I say that because I have been teaching here for 13 years and maybe I’ve just been unlucky but I don’t feel a teaching salary here is really life-changing income. It would be enough to live here, pay the bills rent and food. Long-term stability is something else. Sorry I digress a bit.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly that’s okay. Honestly I know the salary is a bit of a step down, but I’ve always wanted to go. Also with an Italian passport it would be easier for me to get a job in Italy not related to teaching or get a different teaching job somewhere else in the EU since I’d be a citizen. I am honestly a little unsure if I need to contact the consulate here in South Korea or if I should contact one stateside. I am on ancestry and I’ve been looking into his details, but I would like to be 100% sure I am eligible for this and I’d need papers from New York to be sure of that. It’s also funny that I found out today that one of my cousins is also trying to get his Italian citizenship (we’re not blood related). Small world 😁
@@ashleyirving814 yeah. That’s the great part of Italian citizenship. It’s also EU citizenship. I was able to study in England as an EU citizen and get a discount (before Brexit). As for your citizenship start with the ancestor you think was Italian and begin your investigation there. I’d contact the consulate in the US since they speak your native language which I’m assuming is English
My dad is Italian and I'm filling out the application. The NY consulate wants ALL original documents mailed (no return receipt) Isn't that strange? I don't feel comfortable sending almost century old documents through the mail.
I don't blame you either. I live in Seattle and had to send my docs via USPS per the San Francisco Consulate. I crossed my fingers and they made it, but it was a USPS nail biter for a few days. 😉 Now I'm waiting for 6mo-1yr for the Consul to review my docs. 🤞🏼 My mom was born in the US in 1928 and her Italian born father (my maternal grandfather) was naturalized in 1933. I don't think the 1948 rule applies as I think male descendants can pass their citizenship to any child regardless of gender or DOB. It's all so confusing and I think may depend on Consul discretion. Hopefully, Italy will see the advantage of me as a tax paying citizen. 😂🤷🏻♂️🙏 David, any insight or glaring disqualifications you observe are welcome. Thanks so much for this info.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly they don’t want anyone showing up to the consulate, but they make a point of saying no return receipt. Why? They don’t want proof it was delivered just in case? I find that odd
My grandparents came to the US in 1917, I don't believe they ever became citizens. My grandfather went back to Italy before ww2, and did not come back. I have some paper work on all this. I'm wondering how much it all costs to get an Italian passport. My mother was born in 1926.
So my great grandfather became a citizen after my grandmother was born but she was born before 1948. So I can not use my great grandfather because of my grandmother being born before 1948. Correct?
If your grandmother was born outside of Italy, and yes, you will need to fight this case with a Italian government. I say it’s worth it because I’ve heard other people getting around this scenario.
Hey so my great grandfather was an immigrant. He was born in 1886ish and migrated in 1913. I know his name before and after, where he lived before. I've been researching his history in order to find information on him to see if I can claim citizenship as well. I think everything lines up well except that I can't find any information on whether he ever naturalized or not. Closest I can get is 3 different census papers where he claimed he wasn't on one, and claimed he was naturalized on the other two. I can't prove it though since census is just whatever information he decided to give out. And I can't find any information on that online. Any tips or ideas on where to go from here?
Hey. Do what I did. Write to the national archives and request them to do a search. You could also try a search via homeland security; I did this in 2007 so I can't remember exactly who I used, but you will need to write to someone that will produce a letter that attests to your GGF's citizenship status. In my case it was a "No records found result." Once you've submitted your request, unfortunately it is a long wait. However if you want, try reaching out to your local politicians office and ask them to contact whoever is handling your request. I did this and got my response a week later. Miracle? Coincidence? Possibly, but it's worth a shot anyway.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly hi Dave, thanks for the response. We are thinking an apartment that we can use a few months out of the year and maybe rent out on a Verbo or Air B&B platform. We really like Florence because it seems easier to travel from. I was just wondering about all the particulars like legal stuff and if I need to be a resident. Thanks
@@22Jeffreyb I suggest you contact a "commercialista" , lawyer or a company who is involved in managing a B&b. Italian laws are often very complicated! Florence is a wonderful city but think about the fact it's already full of B&b and hotels., so you'd be facing some competition. Also I suggest checking flight prices, because the Florence airport is small and I think rather expensive. If you are thinking of coming to Rome then I suggest taking the train since the the trip is about 1 hour with Italo train or "le frecce di trenitalia ". Maybe a good option about the B&b could be buying a B&b rather than creating one from scratch. You'll pay more for it than a private house but it is already supposed to have all the authorizations and red tape done and completed. No, I don't think you need to be a resident to do this, but I am not a lawyer so do check thoroughly. I hope this helps!
My Ancestor Antonio died before 1861 so i can not apply for Italian Citizenship...i have tried...The Italian states were United by Garibaldi in 1861...so if your ancestor died before 1861 you cannot apply...
I would say that puts you in a good position. But you need to find out in what year your grandmother was born would be the first child born in United States. If she was born after January 1, 1948 then it would seem you have the greenlight.
I’d start with a permesso di soggiorno for work reasons which would allow you to live and work in Italy. After that I am not sure how to open a physical business in Italy. I say physical because businesses can now be Exclusively online. NB: not legal or professional advice, consulate an international lawyer perhaps. The red tape here is difficult. Just saying. Best of luck.
Thanks for this video. Im just yryimg to navigate through all this. Im ggf>gm>m.u.mom was born in 1952 so I think the 1948 law does not apply if i am reading correctly. Hope to get to your position someday. Ciao!
Hi Chad. hard to tell because I don't quite understand the whole picture. I'd need to know who was the first child born in America (or outside Italy). if it's a women (your mom?) and born after 1952 then yes that looks like a green light.
Just remember that the first child born outside of Italy had to have been born before 1948, and it had to been a boy. If the first child born outside of Italy was a girl and born after 1948 then you’re good to go.
Hi Christine. If they were issued in the US then yes. As for the Visa I am not sure whether it’s easy to get it in the US or in Italy. In the end it’s always a bureaucratic thing so I guess it’s indifferent. I hope this answers your question
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Hello, I see my full question was cut off. Do you think it is faster/best to submit all documents once ready to LA consulate or in Italy? I'd take care of all the bureaucracy stuff before submitting citizenship documents in Italy. I feel like If I'm going to become a citizen might as well do it in Italy, right??
Good question. I would give it a shot here in Italy because in the end the consulate has to send your documents to Italy so ….might as well cut out “the middleman “. The only thing is make sure your documents are 100% accurate. I had to go back to the NY consulate 3-4 times because of inaccuracies. Make sure you contact the consulate and ask them what their procedure is for applying in their town Ask in italiano otherwise you’ll never get a response back
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Okay...good advise! I should pay for someone to help me here to verify all documents are correct instead of paying airfares back to SoCal because of mistakes. 👍🏼
One of my subscribers is using itamcamp which seems to be going well. The total fee was 4000$ but they offered an installment payment plan. In the end you’re paying someone else to do the heavy lifting for you
Re 1861 - what you said is not true. My Greatgrandfather was born before 1861 in Genoa which was then part of the Kingdom of Sardinia. He came to the US as a Teenager and died at age 40 - without becoming a US citizen. Italian Citizenship lawyers assure me that he qualifies BECAUSE HE WAS ALIVE AFTER 1861. If he had dies in 1860 - I wouldn't qualify. I'm in the middle of gathering my Documents. This is a lo g process because many old Docs have misspellings or incorrect dates and these must be amended before they are translated and Apostilled for submission to a Consulate in the US - or directly in Italy.
Hi Suzanne. Ah yes I see your confusion. I should have said if they born and died before the unification of Italy then they don’t qualify. I only said if they were born before 1861 then don’t qualify. My apologies. But I did say they qualify if they were alive after the unification. It took me three years so I feel your frustration. If you can get it done in Italy it might be easier. Let me know if you have other questions
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Thanks for your quick response. YES it's a long process. I began last April and have many Docs but there are problems like - where my Grandparents were born (PA) no Birth Records were kept until 1906 and the relevant Grandfather was born in 1890. Hopefully there's a Baptismal Record somewhere... Seems that everyone comes up against these problems one way or another. IF I get the Docs in order - I will submit them in Italy. Don't have years to wait for Consulate appointments here!
@@DavidsDoseofItaly The Diocese of Pittsburgh has just come through with Grandpa's Baptismal Record. They don't have one for his wife, my Grandma - a flood probably in the Church basement...But GF is thr relevant person. I can have a court ordered BC for Grandma if I like - I ha e her Death Certificate and other things with DOB. Yes it's a long journey into the Past! I now have almost all Docs. They need translated and apostilled. Hopefully will moapostles. later this year and present my Claim.
@@suzannederringer1607 That's good news! I frequently suggest reaching out to the church when you need records and I glad they came through. The apostile is not hard to get but every state has different procedures. Boston was easy (jn 2007). 5$ and within an hour they gave me the apostilled document. Hartford was 20$ and I got it in the mail within a week!
Nothing against you at all my friend. Its kind’ve messed up thought that non italian citizens cant apply through descendant because my mother came to America at a young age and had to renounce Italy to be here. I have so many cousins aunts and uncle who live in Italy and who are citizens. But i cant become a citizen because my mother who was a young age and couldn’t make her own decision renounced her country? Its just messed up for those who have family in italy still living and aren’t dead and want to be apart of that culture.
I get you. I think it should be dealt with on a case by case basis. It’s not fair that I inherited my Italian citizenship from my great grandfather and you can’t from your mother.
@@Kevin-oj2uo yes but it depends on when the first child born the country was born. Unfortunately, before 1948 women were not allowed to pass on their Italian citizenship. However, in the comment above, they’re talking about a different situation. This is when children at a young age become citizens of a different country and before 1992 this was seen as renouncing your Italian citizenship. My father’s uncle was in this situation. He came to the US from Italy at the age of two and before his first child was born. He became a US citizen so my father’s cousin can’t inherit his father’s citizenship.
Good news for anyone in my situation. Even if my dad broke the chain (he was naturalized Canadian two years before my birth). Because of my Italian ancestry, I could become a citizen after living in Italy for just 3 years (compared to 4 years for Europeans, 5 years for political refugees and 10 years for the rest). The law : 3 anni di residenza legale: per lo straniero di cui il padre o la madre o uno degli ascendenti in linea retta di secondo grado sono stati italiani per nascita o per lo straniero nato in Italia e ivi residente; Not sure if fiscal residence (half a year + one day) is the same as legal residence : Residenza fiscale : È residente in Italia ai fini delle imposte sui redditi chi per la maggior parte dell’anno (almeno 183 giorni l’anno, 184 in quelli bisestili). Also : La residenza legale non si acquisisce nel momento in cui il cittadino straniero ottiene il primo permesso di soggiorno ma quando si iscrive all’anagrafe della popolazione residente. Significa che il cittadino deve avere una residenza anagrafica ininterrotta e continuativa, cioè senza i cosiddetti «buchi di residenza».
That is in fact, fantastic news and this is something that I didn’t know. I’ve had quite a few people comment here who have parents born in Italy, but yet are in eligible because of the parent acquiring foreign citizenship before the child was born. I will definitely keep this in mind so thank you for sharing that I don’t know if that law would apply to me because it says second-degree so I take that to mean my grandparents and they were born in the United States. Luckily, my great grandfather was a nonresident alien in the United States and so I was able to inherit his citizenship.
Not necessarily. I read recently that if you have Italian parents and you find yourself in this situation, you can live here for 3 years and you would then qualify for Italian citizenship.
IMPORTANT!! Check with your local consulate to see if your local consulate is accepting applications at this time due to the Covid situation!
I have a question you might be able to help with. My father and his father ( and family ) migrated to the USA from Palermo in the 60’s. My father unfortunately was one of the biggest mobster criminals in American history and in one of the cases I read he was deported back to Italia. I was the result of an affair he had here in the USA and he is on my birth certificate. I was born in 1986 and haven’t had any luck finding his birth certificate or don’t know how to do that. I do have his father and mothers complete names. I guess what I’m asking is what I be able to be granted Italian citizenship ship through my father? Thanks for any help
Grazie mille - sono inglese pero il mio bisnono e stato italiano. After Brexit my dreams were crushed but there's hope again! Cheers, salute!
I got my citizenship through my great grandfather, so it’s definitely possible. Brexit was an absolute disaster, and I feel sorry for all those people who were affected and could do nothing about it.
IMPORTANT don t do it through Consulates , bureaucrats/government are a joke, go to Italy , pick a small city and do the paperwork in Italy, save so much time. GO TO ITALY.
Hi Lorraine, and thank you very much for the suggestion. Did you do this ?
Less documents and much more flexible with photocopies, not only originals so much easier and faster. So much more friendly in a small town when you tell them you are going back to your origins, that is how they said it. Residence done now waiting a few months to receive my citizenship@@DavidsDoseofItaly
That is awesome! Thanks for sharing your experience! I guess it depends on the comune, but since they don't get a ton of those requests they aren't bogged down with requests like the consulates are. I went to Torre Del Greco in 2005 for my great-grand-parents documents. they were nice enough but also because I was patient, spoke the language decent enough and I had a list of names and birthdays.
Yes i was born in italy grew in Canada i have doppia nazionalita and yes ita easier to do it here rather than abroad
Hi there, in my case my grandpatents both were italians. I know dates, but I dónt have any document, I just have a copy of an aunt who could get the italian passport, what would you recommend to me@@kndrg13
Thanks for this video, very informative! I'm 2nd gen American-Italian and both sets of grandparents are from Italy but I did not know about the 1948 cases and if they were born before Italy became a country - luckily I still fit that criteria so definitely would like to get dual citizenship.
Grazie David! Things get complicated. My paternal great-grandfather (Italian) went to the United States in 1927 (New York then Boston). My Italian grandparents (paternal) came to Canada in 1957, and my father (born in Italy) was 11 at the time. My father became a Canadian citizen in 1969, but I was born in 1971. I've made an appointment at the Italian consulate (November), so we'll see what happens.
Hi 😊. I’d explore the route via your great grandfather as the other one may not be possible. I did mine via my great grandfather. Best of luck , keep me posted
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Thanks, I have my father's birth certificate (from the parish register) but the consulate wants the birth certificate from the communal register. So I'm going to ask for my father's, my grandfather's and my great-grandfather's! I don't want to take any chances! As I mentioned, it can take years to get an appointment at the consulate!
@@DavidsDoseofItaly I just spent more time reading the law. There's no way around the fact that my dad was a Canadian citizen when I was born. He broke the chain.
Unfortunately, that’s the law. Fortunately you do have the residency option here in Italy
It's great that this video is still getting comments regularly. It is really helpful. My paternal GGF born in 1878 came to the US from Italy in 1910 and he did not become a citizen until 1930 according to the USCIS. My grandfather was born in the U.S. in 1913 so I think I might have a chance.
The challenge is finding out where my GGF was born. We have a handwritten scrap of paper that has his name and Provincia di Salerna, Centola Italy, San Severino. I'm not sure where to start but I hope to get the ball rolling soon! BTW - I'm a fellow Nutmegger!
Hey Joe! Cool that you’re from Connecticut! Which part. I’m closer to MA. Tolland (the only exit for UConn)
I’d say you have a good chance of becoming an Italian citizen Just make sure that you have all the correct information and a complete family tree. if there are any name discrepancies, you will need to have documentation which explains that.
So San Severino and Centola are two different towns so you’ll need to figure out where he was from these two towns. You could always write to both and then see who responds Use chat gpt to write it in proper Italian.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Hi David - We're down in Westbrook. And thank you for the advice!
When writing the officials, what document should I request? Is it a birth or baptism record?
Yes. Birth and marriage. Baptism if they have it but I don’t think it’s necessary. I didn’t present those to the consulate
Hello! I was wondering how you acquired this information through the USCIS--was there a form that you had to fill out to request when your GGF became a US citizen? I'm trying to find the same information for my GGF. Thanks!!
I’ve got mine in 2013. I’m an italian born in Brazil. I have the hardest time trying to explain my american-italian friends why they would want an italian citizenship. Do that for me, please.
I like how you used the term American-Italian because that really is accurate. Most people of Italian origin, in my opinion are more American than they care to realize. I myself learned this when I first moved to Italy. Anyway, that's a great idea for a video and to be honest I am a bit surprised people need a convincing explanation as to they might need Italian citizenship. Quite simply it's another option in life. You never know if it'll come in handy. Suppose you get a great job offer in Dublin for example. As an Italian citizen you don't have immigration problems or obstacles that prevent you from working there. Or, your children might want to take advantage of it eventually as I did. The same reason I made my daughter a US citizen. Hopefully she stays in Europe at least!
Hey! I took a DNA test and appeared that I’m 15% Italian and 17% Greek south italian… so that’s mean one of my ancestors is italian (not a far a generation) so if I prove the right documents and find out who is the Italian in my family, can i apply for the passport?
You should be able to. How far back does your lineage go? The further back you go, the harder it may be to get the necessary documentation.
I was a 1948 case. It is possible to get Italian citizenship under these circumstances but it's long and expensive. It involves starting judicial proceedings in Italy and success is not guaranteed. Instead of the Consulate, it's better to contact a service for getting citizenship; especially since you'll need a lawyer, and these companies have attorneys they work with regularly.
Regarding the Italian Consulates in the U.S., they have backlogs for citizenship requests measured in years. For example, before I found out I was an ad materna case, I was looking at almost a 2 year wait to get in to the Italian Consulate in Chicago.
Thanks for sharing your experience. Did you wait the 2 years ?
David, you make it sound a lot easier than the research I have done which I am being told requires a lot of notarized and translated documents. All of my grandparents immigrated to the US from Italy, specifically Sturno (Naples). In my case, my paternal grandfather became a citizen in 1931 but my father was born in 1923 therefor I qualify by right of blood. However, I have a lot of documents to provide, birth, marriage & death certificates. Interesting note my uncle Joe the last remaining member of my father's family retired to Italy at age 70, but because he was born in 1933 after my grandfather (his father) became a U.S. citizen he did not qualify. My uncle solved this problem by meeting a nice Italian lady on the train one day and they have been married for 16 years (yes he's 86) living in Arona. He longer has to renew his residency papers. My goal is to retire to Italy as well. Ciao
Hi Frank. The whole process isn’t easy in all honesty. My case was easy as I said in the video however it took me three years and multiple consulate visits. This video represents the easiest of the whole process which is finding out eligibility. I say easy because there are harder obstacles in getting your citizenship such as getting the right documents , apostilles , translation etc.
I do plan on doing another video on this topic and I’ll cover all this. Don’t worry.
In regards to uncle Joe if I were him I’d double check and see if he is in fact ineligible. It’s a legal issue and God knows there are loop holes. I’m not making any promises but it’s always better to check and get all the facts.
Sturno. Never been there but I lived with a guy who is from a neighboring town Ariano Irpino. Btw these towns are more Avellino than Napoli.
Wow! That’s cool how you want to retire here ! I suggest you develop multiple income streams to support yourself in the future. Guaranteed money I did a video on that. Hope it helps!
ua-cam.com/video/snHTOQphLho/v-deo.html
Frank,
Steve Romano here doesn't get anymore italian than this last name right ? Ok my Dad was born in 1924 here in Trenton NJ, his father (my grandfather) who I never met .. Came over from Naples through ellis island .. I am almost 100% sure that my grandfather took citizenship after my dad was born in Trenton , I was the youngest in my family . I don't ever remember my Grandparents . However I do have family members that might be able to help me. My mother who's parents (my grandparents) was from Bari .. My mom passed away at 33 and I was 3 yrs old , but all her relatives live in Fresno Ca and I have never talked to them but last name was Diliddo , my moms parents came over as well from italy so from either side , I believe I should be able to get citizenship in Italy.. I have to talk to family members but I know , I qualify , I just need help to do what David told us to do.. Do you have any suggestions ?
@@Stevensocal If you don't have all the documents and if your not in a major city close to an Italian consulate office it is difficult to do it yourself, If you have the money I would hire some Like these guys ua-cam.com/video/btYtdTNGSX8/v-deo.html
My uncle Joe sold my great grandma property and went straight back to Sicily
My case is that my maternal great-grandparents (Philip and Mary) were born in 1884 and 1882 somewhere in Italy. Philip said in documents he was from Minturno (Lazio). They came to the US in about 1910 and settled in New Jersey around 1917. I have census records from that same location from 1920-1950. I obtained a record online of a Declaration of Intent signed by Philip in 1921, but he didn't seem to go through with next steps. It says on the 1930 census that he and his wife were naturalized, but in 1940 he only had his first papers, so the first one would have expired and he had to start the process over again, I'm guessing. Sometime between 1940 and 1950 he and Mary were naturalized. My maternal grandmother was born in 1927, and my mother was born in the 60s. I am trying to obtain naturalization records from the courthouse they would have gone to in the capitol of their county. I am unsure if I am eligible at this point. If the naturalization happened after my grandmother turned 18, sometime in late 1946, do you have any knowledge if I'd be eligible?
Hi, based on the information that you provided me, it would seem that you are eligible. I think though that you would have to go back to your great grandfather because women who were born before 1948 we're not able to pass on citizenship to their children unfortunately. Two years ago, while I was back home, my father found a declaration form signed by his grandfather but fortunately he never went through the process to become a US citizen. Good thing for me.
Great video. U did explain very well
Thank you! I do my best!
I'm in England. My Nonna was Southern Italian. I am going to Italy in a few weeks will speak with local police re immigration
What kind of questions do you want to ask?
Booking an appointment for Citizenship by Descent at local consulate is the roadblock; demand for appointments greatly exceeds supply and the booking system seems impenetrable. I could spend a year trying to get an appointment and I'll never get through. Too bad, my cousin made it through years ago and has the documentation. Timing is everything.
Yes I’ve heard that the wait times are now in years. In 2008 I waited 9 months or so. Timing is indeed critical.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly believe it or not, I was presented with an appointment last night one week out. It had to be a cancellation, but I finally got through Citizenship by Descent. I am submitting all my document requests tomorrow and my cousin has a translator who is thrilled to get more of our families business. I could not take that appointment, but I figure I will have everything ready and translated by spring!
@daviddoseofitaly: my GGF was Italian, but all the papers about it has gone in the world war first and second. We do not even have his birth certificate. Gone. He was trying to get it from the Italian embassy and they told him it is gone it's gone in wars, no papir trail. Is there anything that could be Done?
Check with the local parish church in Italy. They may have independent records that were not destroyed. Good luck.
Hi David. Thanks for this video. Apologize if this question has been asked but i'm curious if a petition for naturalization is different from the certificate. My great grandfather came to the US and petitioned in 1918. He had my grandfather in 1924 and then received his certificate of naturalization in 1929. Would this make my grandfather an italian citizen without being aware of it? Thanks!
Hi, thank you for watching! It would appear so, and this is exactly what happened in my family.
Actually, a few years ago, my father found a petition for naturalization. I believe that’s what it was. Apparently my great grandfather had intentions of becoming a US citizen, but he never did. Even if he did, I think my grandfather had already been born so I still would’ve gotten it anyway.
My GGF was Italian and through that connection I'd like to request IT citizenship. However, all papers were lost in WWI, WWII and Balkans wars. I don't even have his birth certificate. I'm pretty sure documents were lost in IT during time, as well. I don't know much about my GGF so I can't provide info. Should I keep on going that way, or simply quit and go for another visa type? Thanks! 😊
I thought I responded to this but I’ll do it again.
I’d check with the actual town hall and see what they have. To hell with the embassy! Also try contacting the Catholic Church in that town as they’ve been known to keep town records of that type. That’s what I did and apparently both them and the town hall (ufficio anagrafe ) didn’t lose everything during the wars. I mean it may be true what the embassy told you but then again that sounds like passing the buck. Let me know what you find out.
Hey David, I know this is two years old but I tought it was worth a shot trying to ask for help seeing if i was eligible or not,
My 2nd great grandfather was born in Italy (1871) had my great grandfather (1899) and then one year later arrived to the US (1900) he became a citizen in 1906, would this disqualify me or would it be fine since he became a citizen after my great grandfather was born. Appreciate any help if you see this cheers from Alaska.
Hi. Based on what you’ve told me, you might be out of luck, so I would try to explore any other relatives who may have been from Italy. Best of luck.
Hi! Both sides of my great
grandmothers naturalized automatically through marriage before 1922. So in a 1948 petition in court, is it more convincing (ie: twice as strong) to a judge to see that the citizenship by descent exits - because both great grandmothers passed citizenship down to respective sides of applicant's grandparents, which then passed their citizenship down to applicant's parent - to applicant? So, in theory, are two heads better than one?
I am not so sure about that one however I do know that people have gone to court and challenged the 1948 rule and they usually win. Keep a reminder that the most important thing is the year of birth of the first child born outside of Italy.
For example, if your grandmothers still retain their Italian citizenship and had children after 1948, then under Italian law, she was legally able to pass down her Italian citizenship
Anyway, don’t be afraid to challenge the 1948 rule
I’m looking on ancestry. The records were easy enough to find. But I don’t know if they were naturalized or not. How do you find out? Also on the immigration list from Ellis island, it’s stated that my great grandma was already married to a “ Vincenzo” . I see that her husband’s name on the marriage record is Phillip or Phillipo. I don’t know if she remarried or if it’s his middle name or nickname . She goes by 2 names concetta and concettina very confusing
Hi. Contact USCIS and request a search of your ancestor. If they never naturalized like my great grandfather then you’ll get a letter back that says no records found. To speed up the process try the tip that I mentioned in this video.
Ah yes. Cettina vs Concetta. My mother in law’s birth name is Concetta but the nickname is Cettina.
Hey great video! My great grandfather came over when he was a one year old in 1901. My great great grandfather naturalized in 1916. My great grandfather had my grandma in 1926. My great grandfather then became a US citizen in 1943. Would my great grandfather have been naturalized at 16 because his dad naturalized? Does that make me illegible or because he didn't get his US citizenship until 1943 after his daughter's birth make me eligible? Thanks!
Hi.
I believe being naturalized meant that your great grandfather became a US citizen. Make sure that you are clear about what happened in 1916 and 1943. If your great grandfather became a citizen before the birth of your grandfather, then you may not be able be eligible.
Make sure that you’re not confusing naturalization with the intent to become a citizen What do I mean? My great grandfather was never a US citizen and so therefore I was able to become an Italian citizen. However, we discovered a document which declared his intent to one day, become a US citizen but fortunately never did. Might you be referring to this? Let me know.
Hi David. American 🇺🇸 citizen with a Tuscan war bride mom living in Taiwan 🇹🇼. Do you know of any downsides of getting my Italian citizenship, such as tax obligations? I’ve fulfilled my American 🇺🇸 military service obligations long ago and I’m 1000 years too old to be drafted in Italy 🇮🇹! Is there anything else I need to know about? Grazie!
David, I read that a judge needs to determine heritage passed through a female. Can that be done at the Consulate in the US? Or does it need to be done in Italy?
No I believe it’s done in Italy.
I am Italian-Brazilian and I would like to ask Italian-Americans what is the main reason for leaving the USA. In my case, leaving Brazil for Italy or another country in Europe makes sense due to the lack of prospects in my home country. However, you were born in the United States, a country that, in theory, offers more opportunities. So what drives this change?
To be honest, I initially left mainly because I was in love with my Italian heritage, and I wanted to get better at the language and get to know the country better
Also, when I left, I was 29 and I really didn’t have anything in the states. I didn’t have job a house a family or anything like that
I also had some reservations about the US and its culture, but that really wasn’t the main reason 15 years on I am relatively happy here although it depends on the day I think another big reason why I left is because I prefer the healthcare system here. It has its problems, but honestly, I will take my chances here.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly I understand your point of view and thank you very much for responding to my comment. Next year, I'm also going to Italy and I hope my experience is as positive as yours.
Make it happen 😎. I’ve met a lot of Italian -Brazilians here.
Hey David a question about my eligibility, My Great Great Grandfather never became a U.S. Citizen and, and my great grandfather was born in italy, but eventually naturalized at 19. Do you think I still have a chance?
That’s hard to say because it depends if your grandfather was born before your great grandfather naturalized. That’s the key.
Hi, so my great mother was from Italy but it was a part of Italy that was under Austrian rule at the time and is now part of Croatia but my mom and her mother have always known their heritage to be Italian. Do you think I’d still be able to get citizenship in this situation
I investigated on the ancestry websites and found out I have both a great great grandfather whose last name is Grosso (italian) and one whose last name is Francisconi (also italian). However, I believe none of them were actually born on Italy, but common sense suggests there is an ancestor actually born in Italy for both of them (or else how would they have gotten their last names). The problem is that ancestry websites don’t go further than 1800s in my case, so I was wondering if these last names were enough to get it. I have access to all sorts of documents for these people, just can’t find the older ones who were born in italy.
Your best bet is contacting the Catholic Church in Italy as for many centuries, they were the official recordkeepers for many towns.
Hi! Thanks for your video!! My dad was 13 when he came to the USA in 1976, from Accera. I believe he eventually became a US citizen. Might I be eligible to apply for dual citizenship for US and Italy?
Hi ! Glad you enjoyed it. Try and find out if he is (or was) a US citizen. Then determine if this happened before or after your birth because if he became a US citizen BEFORE you were born then you might be out of luck. That all goes out the Window if he became a US citizen after 1992. Hopefully you qualify!
Yay! Thanks for replying! I believe he became a US citizen before 1992. My mom's parents came here from Caserta, so my mom was born here but they were married in 1985...so if she was born here, that would make him a us citizen by marriage? I'm thinking? 🤔
No not necessarily. For example my wife is Italian and she is not a US citizen.
So at this point try and figure out if your parents became a US citizen before or after you were born. I’m willing to bet that you are probably eligible! Let me know I’ll be curious.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly ok...I thiiiiink his SSN was issued in 1977, before marriage.
@@mariedi778 I’m no immigration specialist but I don’t think you need to be a US citizen to get a Social Security card. I could be wrong however!
This is making my head spin a little bit 😁. My grandfather was born in Italy, but came to America when he was around 10 years old. Where do I go from there to determine if I'm eligible?
Hi.
I would start by asking him if he is a US citizen if so, when did this occur and more specifically did it occur before or after your birth?
@@DavidsDoseofItaly He passed away in 1988, so I can't provide any information in that dep't. I was born in 1979. He most definitely gained US citizenship decades before I was born. Does that information help? Thank you for the response! 🙂
So in general, if your Italian parent acquired US citizenship or any foreign citizenship before your birth and before 1992, it was considered as renouncing their Italian citizenship, and therefore null and void for their children.
However, via a comment by another viewer, just like yourself, it has been brought to my attention that if you are a child of an Italian parent or a grandparent, you might be able to get italian citizenship just by living here for three years.
If you’re prepared to do that, then the next step you need to do is to apply for permesso di soggiorno which will allow you to live here and also work here without a visa. I hope that helps.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Thank you so much for the thoughtful and informative reply. I have more questions, but I will follow up tomorrow. God bless you all!
@@DavidsDoseofItaly I am a laborer who works on private yachts, and there are plenty of marinas up and down the coast of Italy that could keep me employed. I do "brightwork" on boats.
What’s the best way to find documented ancestry? Is there a good website out there? My GGF migrated from Italy around 1913. I’m not sure if he obtained US citizenship at all, but they had a son in America shortly after. Just looking to get started in this process. I’ve wanted to for so many years.
Hi. I never needed them at least for the purpose of finding out who was from Italy and then using that ancestor to obtain Italian citizenship. I’d hit up ancestry.com to start with. You could also contact the catholic church as they have their own records which years ago in Italy was the officially record keeper of the people.
Hi great video! I'm doing my genealogy which I found my great grand father
Nicola Sciascia was born on 13 April 1840 in Trani, Bari, Italy, to Maria Gaincinta Di Toma and Carlos Sciascia. Nicola then moved to New Zealand when he was in he's thirties. I'm not sure if you can go back this far to be able to qualify for passport. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Carey Chambers
Hi. Thank you 😊.
Yes you can. I asked the Italian consulate in New York the same question in 2008. They said as long as you have the correct documentation for everybody, including the ancestor then technically there are no limits in how many generations you can go back.
Much ❤️ Would you know where in Italy I could apply for my great grand dads birth certificate (Nicola Sciascia) which would disclose his parents (Maria Gaincinta Di Toma and Carlos Sciascia)? In New Zealand it's very easy to apply for my grandmother's cert ( she was born here NZ Vs Italy) which will include he's parents ( Nicola& Maria) details.
I am very new at this but any help would be greatly appreciated ❤️
@@careychambers6641 since you said he was born in Trani, if you can, I would actually go there in person because when you’re there face-to-face, you get much better results. I did this myself in 2005 and I am sure that I saved myself a lot of headache and frustration. You want to go to the ufficio anagrafe and I’m willing to bet that they’re open from
Monday through Friday from seven to noon. If that’s not possible, then you want to contact them via email and send them a PEC email. Use chat gpt to translate your email into Italian if you need it and also specify exactly the full name and date of birth. You will also need your ancestors marriage certificate so ask for that too.
Hi David unfortunately I live in New Zealand. You mentioned a PIC email sorry but I'm old school what does that mean 😅
An email sent via PEC (Posta Elettronica Certificata) is an email sent using a certified email system that is legally recognized in Italy. PEC provides a way to send emails with legal value, equivalent to a registered letter with return receipt, ensuring that the email's content and timestamp cannot be altered.
If that’s not possible, I’m sure regular email will do
I have a strange situation and I'm not sure how open and shut it will end up being.
My GG Grandfather was born, I believe around 1875 in Piedmont, Italy. His wife was an Irish housekeeper and he was a cook (although family oral history says chef and quite a good one at that, who knows).
My G Grandfather was born in 1901 but I am struggling to get the actual birth certificate, just some other documentation that lists the date of birth and his brother's and parent names.
G Grandfather was born in Connecticut apparently. My GG Grandfather from Italy tried to naturalize in 1906 and signed the intent document but there's no official document of the naturalization actually occurring although the intent document basically vows "intent" to forfeit allegiance to the prior country.
Anyway, it's a mess, can't even find the G Grandfather's birth certificate, anything from Italy for sure from the GG Grandfather although the marriage certificate lists the names of the parents and I can find THEM in Italy.
My poor G Grandfather was given to an orphanage by his mom after my GG Grandfather died of brain cancer at 36, I found that document of his death once and lost it.
Hello. that's an interesting story, Thank you. Don't worry about the intent to forfeit. My GGF did that but he never followed up and he remained an Italian citizen. For the missing documents unfortunately there is no way around it as the consulates want them. You might want to hire a service provider to help you.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Yeah it sounds like it is going to be a costly endeavor. I already have a US Government agency looking into the naturalization documents.
What else did I need?
I don't have a birth certificate, it's more of a ledger in Italian.
I have a marriage certificate, the intent to naturalize, the ledger for both of his sons being born, no death certificate and I don't know if I can find that.
My maternal great-grandfather was born in Recale Italy. I actually have his naturalization certificate. It's dated 1913. He was born in 1880. Does anyone know if this makes me ineligible for citizenship?
Possibly I need more info. When was your grandmother born ?
Is it important for the parent to be born in italy?what if the parent is not born in italy but stayed in italy for a long time and obtained citizenship after sometime left italy but the children of that parent are also born in italy and they also had italian documents which are now expired. Can they apply for citizenship if not is there any other way?
I think it seems possible if the children at one point had Italian documents
Hi David, I looked into this process so long ago and gave up on the idea. I'd been told that my great grandparents were naturalized citizens, so I didn't bother investigating.
(GGF born Italy 1889, in America 1916, GF born 1931)
Well, an ancestry site updated a census (1940) with their household (after all of their children were born, including my grandfather -1931) and it states that both great grandparents had filed paperwork but weren't naturalized yet ("Pa" on the census form).
I was quite shocked and am in the process of having a private company do the initial investigation. I have my great grandfather's petition for naturalization from 1924, which made me assume the process was complete and my grandfather was NOT born an Italian citizen. I also made a USCIS inquiry recently so I can find for certain if he was even fully naturalized.
My fingers are crossed here!
BUT, I may also have a 1948 backup because my great grandmother's petition for naturalization was from 1938, meaning all of her children were born before she even started the paperwork.
This whole process intrigues me to no end! I am fairly certain I qualify one way or another. I know it's a long process and I am willing to do the third party agency to make sure all documents are in order.
Maybe someday I'll be uploading a video of my citizenship process :) Cross your fingers for me, please.
It seems you have a shot. Contact homeland security and ask them to search their records for your great grandparents. I did that and it came back No records found. My ggf, from whom I got my citizenship, also petitioned for US citizenship but never got it fortunately
With regard to the 1948 cases , don’t forget it’s only a problem if the children of the Italian born grandmother were born before 1948. Do double check this but I think this is the case.
We just discovered who my grandma’s father was, he was an Italian immigrant. Through ancestry we were able to find marriage certificates, birth certificates and such. But we are still trying to find out what his status was by the time my grandma was born. Hoping we have a case! I’d love to be a dual citizen to Italy.
The way to establish that is to reach out to either homeland security or the national archives and request a search. They usually look through old censuses. The wait can be a bit extensive and in this video I made a suggestion of contacting a local politicians office. It can’t hurt
Hi! I'm looking into this so my husband can get his citizenship. His great great grandfather came to the US but as far as I know his first child (not my husband's great grandfather) was born in Italy. I believe he naturalized before my husband's great grandfather was born, so does that make my husband ineligible?
It would appear so. But do find out 100% if that’s true.
Hi there David I have a quick question:
You claim that for Italian Citizenship by Descent there can be no "Naturalization Break" in the blood line, but then you claim to that you got my citizenship through my grandfather and make no mention of your father as if it mattered not. Please explain. Thanks
Hi! He did matter. He’s part of the bloodline and therefore essential. Without him I wouldn’t have inherited my Italian citizenship
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Sorry for taking your time... but you still did not answer my question about "Naturalization Break." By the way, I'm asking because I'm trying to figure things out. Thanks
@@GiuseppeNataleDiCristiano Oh my apologies, I read your question wrong. So, I am not sure what I said about my father but he wasn't the crucial player here. What matters is that my great-grandfather did not become a US citizen BEFORE the birth of my grandfather. If he had done that Italian citizenship would not have been able to be passed down via the generations. Fortunately he never became a US citizen. Does this answer your question?
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Thanks much. I'm still studding though!
If your ancestor has “first papers” in US but has not completed naturalization after having their child does that prevent eligibility?
I’m not sure what you mean by first papers. My ancestor, for example, signed a declaration that he had the intention to become a US citizen, but he never did. I think this is what you mean by first so if that’s the case, then you should be good to go.
So I'm filipino, but I'm adopted and my father is of italian heritage. My Grandfather was born 1928 and his parents immigrated here from Italy through Ellis island. Would I still be eligible even though I don't have any italian by blood?
I would think so. if you're adopted then legally you are part of that family bloodline. interesting question however.
Hi im canadian, my mom is sicilian, born in italy, moved here at 6 years old, she is a permanent resident in Canada, she never got her citizenship! I assume it should be easy for me but i dont understand anything on the consolate website, do you know what documents i would need from my mom ?
Hi Sara.
To address this question, if you're looking to claim Italian citizenship through your mother's lineage, you would typically need to provide several documents. These often include your mother's birth certificate from Italy, proof of her permanent residence in Canada, and potentially her marriage certificate if applicable. You would also need to provide your own birth certificate and any other relevant legal documents. I don’t know how it works in Canada, but you’ll need a letter from homeland security or whatever your equivalency is that your mother never became a Canadian citizen.
I'm trying for Italian citizenship...it's going to take a long time...my greatgrandparents were from italy...
It took me three years. Don’t give up. It was the best decision I ever made. How far along are you in the process ?
@@DavidsDoseofItaly well I have all the documents ..the problem with the documents from the United States is that they're old and need to be Updated ...I got the birth certificates and the atti di matrimonial from Italy in 2019...so I need to get the documents apostled and translated into italian from the US .I have a appointment with the Los Angeles counsolete April 2022 but I don't think I'll have everything ready by then...we'll see
Who said your documents were old and need to be updated ? How is that accomplished btw ?
@@DavidsDoseofItaly he's a lawyer and translator for the Los Angeles Consulate.I have all original documents from 1912, 1913 ,1941 etc... he said they need to be certified copies with current dates .I can get copies from the different states( counties )that the documents were issued in.of course this takes time and money.then I have to have the documents apostled from the secretary of states they were issued from ...which is more time and money...I also have an issue with my grandfathers confirmation name..it doesn't show on his birth certificate but he used it throughout his life..The lawyer said that might be a problem with the italian government.as you know..your trying to prove your lineage thru these documents..so there shouldn't be irregularities..but this is real life not a fantasy so it's not always possible...
Ah ok, I can see where documents that old might need to be updated. Oh yes, the Italian consulate wants any name irregularities to be explained. The whole process is an investment in time and money but in the end it's totally worth it. Let me know if you have any more questions and I'll do my best to answer them.
Ok, so my great grandfather born in italy came to the US and had 7 children. If he became a US citizen say after the 5th child, would that mean only the first five and their descendants would be eligible? My grandfather was the last born. Or are you saying that he just had to have had his first child in the US prior to obtaining US citizenship and then all his children would be eligible?
The latter situation. Italian law dictates that at the time of birth your Italian ascendent must still have been an Italian citizen in order to pass on his citizenship. The other 5 would be eligible and the last 2 no I’m afraid and the citizenship stops there. Check with the consulate anyway. Best of luck!
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Ok. Well I am not sure if or when my great grandfather became an American citizen. I think he did. So if he didn't do it until after my grandfather was born, I would be eligible as far as that regulation goes. Correct? Thank you David!
Yes, that is correct but be absolutely sure of that
Hello.
I want to see if a qualify. My father is full italian so are my grandparents. But they all moved to australia...
So my great grandparents were born in Italy. My grandparents born in Tunisia. My father born in Tunisia. They then moved to Australia and became naturalized. My grandparents used to have italian passports but then became naturalized so do not anymore.
Do you think I have a chance? Or no because they moved to Australia
Thanks
Hi. Sure. I don't think it matters where they moved to but rather what your ancestors citizenship status was when they moved abroad and if they kept being Italian citizens. I am guessing your dad acquired Italian citizenship since Tunisia was under Italian control during the war. If that is so and he was an Italian citizen at the time of your birth AND you were born after 1947, then it would seem you are elegible. Check with your local consulate to be sure.
My great great grandparent's came here but didn't get naturalized until the 40s after they had 11 children, 4 of which were in the military. Would this eliminate my chances?
No, on the contrary. That looks promising.
@DavidsDoseofItaly really? Hopefully because I submitted my application the before that comment.
@@ADashnawMKIBC Yes because if your ancestors came to the USA (or wherever you're from), remained an Italian citizen, and THEN had 11 children, they and all their descendants are elegible, or at least should be. I don't have all the details but that is the main prerequistite: No renouncing of Italian citizenship. Renouncing was done and seen as taking another citizenship.
My maternal grandparents came from Nevelli, L'Aquila, Abruzzo in Italy. They came to the United States in 1914. I would like to find out if I could become an Italian citizen. I've been lucky enough to visit Italy twice and enjoyed it very much.
It’s definitely worth looking into. Mine came to the US around that time too.
My father is from Italy living in USA, I’m not sure if he was an Italian citizen when he had his first child (my oldest brother) but I know he was not an Italian citizen when he had me in 1991. If he had his first child while maintaining Italian citizenship would that mean the rest of his kids, including myself, qualify for dual citizenship?
That is correct. He could easily get it back. I have a friend who was born in Italy but moved to Canada as a child. At some point he lost his Italian citizenship but he managed to get it back about five years ago. So if your dad is interested he might be able to get it back.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Thanks for the reply! OK so if my dad gets his Italian citizenship back would that mean I could get Italian citizenship? I am interested in moving to Italy currently in USA.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly also I don’t know how they define “parent with the right to Italian citizenship”
Hi I was wondering if you could help me with fill out an ELECTION BALLOT for the coming election in Italy. I have dual citizenship. I live in Madison Wisconsin and I would like to vote but nothing is in English and I don't even know how if I should be checking boxes or writing in the names - it's a very different ballot compared to here in the states - any help you could give me would be great. Thanks
Hi. Oh I know what you’re going through. I know because I used to receive these ballots while I was still living in Connecticut and indeed it is much different than the American system. If I remember correctly I think you have to put an X over the name or political party that you want to vote for. Let me know if that helps if not let me know anyway!
Hi David,
My grandparents on both sides had their kids born in Italy then came over and became citizens in the 1950s. Does this mean I am ineligible? Both my parents and grandparents were all born in the same town in Italy Prezze. my great grandparents remained in Italy.
Hi Anthony. That's actually my middle name but I never use it. So if you are eligible or not, this all depends when the kids, who were born in Italy, became US citizens. I will give you an example for my family, my dad's uncle moved to the United States when he was two years old and then became a US citizen in his late 20s. After that, my dad's first cousin was born. This means that this cousin is ineligible because at the time of his birth, his father had become a US citizen, and thus had given up his Italian citizenship. My father and I are eligible, because the Italian immigrant in our family was my father's grandfather, and he never became a US citizen. In essence, my father and his cousin are the same generation, however, their Italian immigrants are different people
@@DavidsDoseofItaly thank you so much! I just found out my grandmother on my mother’s side never got citizenship in the states!! I’ll start the process for applying now. Amazing news!!
@@Anthonyc301 great news! Just be sure that the next ancestor in line was not a woman born before 1948.
Good information. Thank you. Do you have a 2024 update?
Hi Anna. Thank you 😊 No but I will look into it because I’m sure there have been some changes.
Hey, I was born in Italia, but both of my parents are Egyptians. Can I become an Italian citizen? I left Roma when I was 4 years old and I’m 24 right now living in the US.
I am not sure really. I can tell you it wont be easy. You might, though so it's worth pursing,
Nope because a singular drop of “Italian blood” is more important than people who have actually lived in Italy.
My grandfather is Italian (my mother's father), and I have no documents about him. How can I apply for Italian citizenship?
Your first step is to find out where exactly your grandfather was from. Next to find out if he retained his Italian citizenship throughout his life and if he became a US citizen or a citizen of different country, what was his citizenship status at the time of birth of your parent?
Good afternoon sir
To apply for citizenship if your ( certificato storico di residence) as cut cut but you actually 10 years in Italy YOU can apply for it
Hello. Ok. I am not in that situation so I am not familiar with the rules, but good to know. Thx!
Is it possible to get my duel citizenship from my great grandfather who never had a US citizenship? How do I ask for his documents in italy? (He jumped ship, then swam to Mexico, then crossed the border to America)
Sure that is exactly how I did it. If you can go to Italy and get the documents in person that is really the best way and that’s what I did. Otherwise you will need to hire a service provider. You could, of course write to the Townhall yourself and requested information, but you would need to give them specific information as far as the exact name and date of birth if your Italian is nonexistent, write it in English and then maybe you could use chatGPT to translate it.
super helpful and to the point
Thank you 😊. Mission accomplished!
My grandfather who was born in italy was naturalized one year after my father was born. Do you think I still qualify for Italian citizenship?
From the sound of it, you do. I would make sure however, that you get all the details to get a clear picture. Nevertheless, that is one of the key requirements.
Sei un ottimo allenamento per il mio American/English.😊
Ciao Sabrina! Grazie davvero per il complimento! Spero di essere stato abbastanza chiaro e di non aver parlato troppo velocemente!
@@DavidsDoseofItaly nooo, per me è perfetto.Devo allenarmi al Listening. 😊
@@sabrinaalias1757 Brava! cosi si fa. Ogni giorno ti devi allenare, anche solamente 10 min al giorno.
quick question, My blood brother already have his citizenship (Italian Passport) in Brazil but I'm here in USA living here for 21 year American and Brazilian Citizen as well. can I still be citizen of 3 different countries? My Brother have the process number from everything he went thought. I'm here in Connecticut as well and not sure what to do to apply for me my wife and daughter. please help me not sure what to do. THANK YOU
Oi! Sim que pode ter 3 passaportes. If you’re worried about repercussions from the US government, don’t be. Uncle Sam doesn’t care if you have any foreign passports (as far as I know), all they care about is if you’re legal in the USA. Since you’d be getting Italian citizenship the way I did, jus sanguinis, via your birthright, then this means you were already born an Italian citizen and so there is no swearing allegiance to Italy or renouncing your Brazilian citizenship. You just need to have it officially recognized at an Italian consulate or in Italy.
Question. Are you able to add your name to your brother’s application and thus you can also get your Italian citizenship (and your family) the same way he did? My sister wants to do the same thing I did, but I am not sure she can.
De onde fica no Connecticut se posso te perguntar? Sou de Tolland.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly thank you for responding me back. I’m from Bethel CT.
My father was born in NY in 1932. His father’s date of declaration was prior to that but his date of naturalization was 1944- After the birth of my father. Am I eligible? Thank you.
Hi. Based on what you just told me, it would seem so. My great grandfather also filled out a declaration form with his intention to become a US citizen, but he never became a US citizen so it paved the way for me to inherit his Italian citizenship.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly thanks!
Is it just that they couldn't become a citizen before their first child was born, or more specifically they couldn't become a citizen before the child who became your grandfather was born? Thanks!
Hi Tommy. So as long as the Italian immigrant retain their Italian citizenship, and at the time of birth of their first child born abroad, then the child inherited Italian citizenship. Unfortunately, things became more complicated when the Italian immigrant was a woman, and the first child born abroad was a girl before 1948. In that situation, you will need to challenge the Italian government but fortunately, from what I've been hearing this is a winnable case
Im working on this now, for whatever reason, my great grandfather changed the spelling of our last name when he came to Ellis island. I hope I can make this happen
Oh I think that’s fixable. Not seeing it’ll be easy but others have had this problem and have fixed it. I got lucky in this case as my great grandfather kept the original spelling. Best of luck!
Same issue but ours was just a mistake with last letter
In our case our great grandpa changed his first name from vitorio to victor 😩
Hello, Both my Great-grandfather and Great-grandmother imigrated from Italy to the States, but I dont know when. They had my Grandfather in 1919 in NY and I found a 1940 Census that says my Great-grandfather was an Alien under naturalization. Im assuming that will make me eligible. What is the typical cost of applying of Italian Citizenship now, and should I contact someone for assistance? Thanks for the video. I would of never known and now Im hoping to get my citizenship atleast for my sons sake.
Hi. Yeah if the 1940 census shows him as being an alien then it was seeing it would seem you’re eligible. This was my situation too.
I’m not sure what the costs are to be honest because I did it myself but if you go through an agency you might be spending upwards of 4000$. I’ve seen this number from two of my subscribers and from two different websites. I would make a list of all that you need and next to it write down the cost for it. You’ll also need translations of all US documents and apostilles which are done at US Capitols. They aren’t difficult fortunately ; I got the bulk of them from Boston. Since your ancestor was never a US citizen that makes things a bit easier.
A service provider however might be the way to go if you feel this is all over your head especially if you need help getting documents from Italy. I went to Italy myself (before I moved here ) and did it in person. Let me know what you decide to do
Thanks for reaching out. I have one question that maybe you would be able to help me out with. Its my mothers, father, father that was born in Italy which would make him my Great-grandfather. My Great-grandmother also imigrated to the States and was never naturalized like my Great-grandfather. I found a company that would obtain the birth Certificates from the town they were born in at a cost of $350. Would my Great grandfather documents be good enough of do I need both my grandparents? Its his last name that im tied too.
Thanks
That's a great question. I didn't need it but that was back in 2008 so things may have changed and it may also depend on the individual consulate. So definitely ask them if you can. If they're unreachable I'd find citizenship groups on FB for example and ask them or check for a similar question in their group history.
I'm trying to do what you did but I can't get the USCIS papers because I can't find the birthdate for my greatgrandfather, or greatgrand mother, I'm wondering if I went to the NYC conculate if they could assist me in this. I can find plenty of things including I know where they were born and death records. I just can't find birth or marraige certificates and I'm wondering if they'd be able ot willing to provide help so I could try and apply for citizenship, if I'm even able. Any ideas if I should approach the consulate for help in this endeavor?
Hi. Why don't you go to the town hall where their death certificates are? I did this back in 2008 and on the death certificate it lists where and when they were born. It should also list date of death, otherwise what kind of death certificate is it?!
Alternatively, if that doesn't work you could contact the town in Italy where they were born and request this information.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly I honestly hadn't thought about that. They were in NJ when they came to this country so I'd have to check there. A bit more of a trip for me, unless I call them, but I can try that - ty. ^_^
@@DreamsRemorse I went to the Boston town hall and it was a rather painless process. How far is NJ from you?
@@DavidsDoseofItaly I'm on Long Island...so it's a few hours for me.
@@DreamsRemorse got it. I’ve been to both places. Only once to Long Island unfortunately. It’s the area where the islanders play.
What a pain this all this is . I was born in Italy in 1946 so my mom I can’t use. My grandfather was born in Italy in 1880 so I’m not eligible there ?
If you were born in Italy, then why are you trying to regain your Italian citizenship? Did you renounce it somehow? I have a friend who was born in Italy, and moved to Canada as a young boy, and he, in fact he did lose his Italian citizenship. Somehow, though he was able to regain it back.
It’s crazy. I was born in 1946. My father was a soldier that was in North Africa then ended up in Naples during the occupation. My father is first generation born in US. My brother and I finished the family tree of both my fathers parents who were born in Sarno Salerno. So my teenage uncle brought my father home to meet his family. He my parents feel in love and married in March 4, 1945. I was born March 26, 1946. My father was sent home before my birth. My mother left her family. We arrived in Us June 1946.
Can you help me get residency in Italy arriving on another passport?... only because I'm in Europe, and I don't want to fly all the way back to my resident country, get the italian passport, then fly to italy. Is it possible for me to just go to italy and start with registering residency in italy, then get my italian passport after that? (I have my italian citizenship papers with me!)
It is entirely possible to get residence here without being a citizen. To do that you either need to buy property or find someone who is willing to let you declare residency there.
Hi David, I’m wondering if you can assist me with identifying my eligibility. I’m looking to acquire citizenship through my grandfather who was born in Italy (1928-2016), my father was born in Argentina (1957), then they moved to Canada and became citizens in 1976 (no Argentinian citizenship was acquired except for my father’s birth). It was before 1992 that they became Canadian citizens, but it was not before my father was born. Does this mean that I’m still eligible?
Hi Kris. It would seem so but do verify it. If your grandfather was still an Italian citizen at the time of your fathers birth then I believe you’ve got a green light.
My case is somewhat similar in the fact my great grandfather was still in Italian citizen at the time of birth of my grandfather. All men. All with the same last name so my case was relatively easy.
Thank you 🙏
Have you had any luck? Did you contact the Argentinian authority to get the birth record of your father? It would show parents nationality?
@@pat564I found out that I don’t qualify for Italian citizenship because when my father immigrated to Canada, he became a Canadian citizen years later in 1976. Since it was before 1992 (when Italy recognized dual citizenship), Italy considered it an automatic denouncement of Italian citizenship, thus leaving me with a broken line
Hello. My maternal grandparents came to England from Italy in 1968 but neither ever became British citizens, and my mother is a citizen of both the United Kingdom and Italy from birth (1970). Do you think that I have a case or are my chances null and void?
IF your mamma is italian, you are an italian too, because it's in your blood. is she registered at the Italian Consulate where she lives, AIRE? is that one the same consulate for you? do the research and go of it!!
@@marcelaviglianchino8053 She was registered Italian as well as British at birth in England but she doesn’t have her Italian birth certificate in her possession. If it’s anywhere, it’d be at my grandparents house. I’m not even sure if she even registered with AIRE because she never lived in Italy and never used any consular services to get an Italian passport or anything like that.
@David's Dose of Italy I have a question about my right to Italian citizenship through my ancestors. If my great great grandfather was born in italy(Sicily), he had children in italy, then years later they moved to the USA with his family would I qualify to gain Italian citizenship based on my ancestors being from italy?
Hi James. That depends on whether any of foreign born children is your grandfather/grandmother and if they were still Italian citizens at the time of birth of your parent. In my video for example, my dad's Uncle Tony was 2 when he arrived in America. He became a US citizen and then after had his first child. This child forever lost his right to Italian citizenship as far as I know. Can you give me some more details?
Do you recommend I use an immigration attorney for this? My father’s dad was born in Italy - so I’m trying to go from there to see how it might work
No. Why ? I didn’t use one and I got it via my great grandfather Are there particular difficulties?
@@DavidsDoseofItaly I have an older dad whose father immigrated here when he was a kid (Ellis Island), so I guess it’s just a matter of finding the documentation for it? So you think an attorney for it isn’t necessary? What steps should I take?
I don’t. It’s really not complex.
Your first step should be to establish where your grandfather was from in Italy Once you do that, you will need to obtain his birth certificate from the ufficio anagrafe from that town. You will need to write that in Italian and if you use ChatGPT, I think it can really help you.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly thanks, he’s from Abruzzo, so could I find the registry office online that way?
Yes. Which city in Abruzzo?
am i eligible if my father was born in italy and was an italian citizen but then emigrated to canada and then i was born after my dad became a canadian citizen?
It doesn’t look good but I would get all the details and maybe look to acquire it via your mother. If by any chance, your father became a Canadian citizen after 1992 it might be possible. I said get all the details, because I have a friend who was born in Italy, and moved to Montreal when he was two. He became a Canadian citizen, but somehow I was able to re-acquire his Italian citizenship. I think when it comes to legal matters there are always exceptions and loopholes.
David, I have the same situation as you ! I currently live in Cebu Philippines, formally from Reno Nevada I am a Disabled U.S. Army Veteran. Is there a way I can talk to you ? I urgently need help !
Hi Roberto, sure. You can post your comment here or drop me an email.
Hey David! Thank you for your video. I’m Argentinian, living in NYC. I qualify for Italian citizenship but I don’t know if the Ny consulate will ask me for something else as I’m an international student living in nyc. Do you have any idea? Thank you!
Hey Matias! No they'll just ask you for pertinent life documents like Birth, marriage, death and divorce. they also want to know of any name changes especially when women are involved in the process
@@DavidsDoseofItaly you’re the best. Thank you!
I just ordered my grandfather's birth certificate from Italy. My grandparents were born in Italy, married in italy then moved to France. They did not give up their italian citizenship, My mother was born in France. What next?
I’d make an appointment with your nearest consulate ASAP. They’re not easy to get so keep at it.
I just learned about this and think it’s so cool! My GGGF and GGGM on a 1925 census were both put down as aliens and my GGF was 5 at the time and born in New York. I think this makes me eligible? They were both from Cerda, Palermo, Sicily. I did get a little worried about the 1948 rules, but thankfully it was passed down from GGGF-GGF-GM(born 1946). I am assuming this keeps me eligible as she was born under the Italian FATHER at the time? I understand that she automatically got citizenship through her father rather than her mother? I hope this means I am eligible. I currently am living in South Korea teaching English, and I have been thinking about moving to Italy in the next 2-3 years. It would be so much easier to do so with an Italian passport. It will also be wonderful to share with my nana that she could get a passport and visit me 😁 Thank you for making this video! It was very helpful.
Hi Ashley. It is indeed a very thrilling feeling when you inherit Italian citizenship in Via an ancestor. Based on what you have told me I think you would be eligible because at the time of your great grandfather‘s birth his father was still an Italian citizen because being an alien I think means that you were still a citizen of your former country. That is exactly how I acquired my Italian citizenship via my great grandfather. I would contact your nearest Consulate and confirm this though.
I agree if you want to teach English in this country it would make it a lot easier if you were an Italian citizen. On that note I think you would make more money teaching English in Korea than Italy , I say that because I have been teaching here for 13 years and maybe I’ve just been unlucky but I don’t feel a teaching salary here is really life-changing income. It would be enough to live here, pay the bills rent and food. Long-term stability is something else. Sorry I digress a bit.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly that’s okay. Honestly I know the salary is a bit of a step down, but I’ve always wanted to go. Also with an Italian passport it would be easier for me to get a job in Italy not related to teaching or get a different teaching job somewhere else in the EU since I’d be a citizen.
I am honestly a little unsure if I need to contact the consulate here in South Korea or if I should contact one stateside. I am on ancestry and I’ve been looking into his details, but I would like to be 100% sure I am eligible for this and I’d need papers from New York to be sure of that. It’s also funny that I found out today that one of my cousins is also trying to get his Italian citizenship (we’re not blood related). Small world 😁
@@ashleyirving814 yeah. That’s the great part of Italian citizenship. It’s also EU citizenship. I was able to study in England as an EU citizen and get a discount (before Brexit).
As for your citizenship start with the ancestor you think was Italian and begin your investigation there. I’d contact the consulate in the US since they speak your native language which I’m assuming is English
My dad is Italian and I'm filling out the application. The NY consulate wants ALL original documents mailed (no return receipt) Isn't that strange? I don't feel comfortable sending almost century old documents through the mail.
I don’t blame you. I’d pay top dollar for guaranteed delivery. Can you deliver them in person? I’m from CT so it made it easier
I don't blame you either. I live in Seattle and had to send my docs via USPS per the San Francisco Consulate. I crossed my fingers and they made it, but it was a USPS nail biter for a few days. 😉 Now I'm waiting for 6mo-1yr for the Consul to review my docs. 🤞🏼 My mom was born in the US in 1928 and her Italian born father (my maternal grandfather) was naturalized in 1933. I don't think the 1948 rule applies as I think male descendants can pass their citizenship to any child regardless of gender or DOB. It's all so confusing and I think may depend on Consul discretion. Hopefully, Italy will see the advantage of me as a tax paying citizen. 😂🤷🏻♂️🙏
David, any insight or glaring disqualifications you observe are welcome.
Thanks so much for this info.
@@joecutro7318 so they are going to hold onto your original documents for six months to a year? Oh boy.😡
@@DavidsDoseofItaly they don’t want anyone showing up to the consulate, but they make a point of saying no return receipt. Why? They don’t want proof it was delivered just in case? I find that odd
@claudiam8051 I am under the impression they keep the original documents forever. I believe they are kept on file.
My grandparents came to the US in 1917, I don't believe they ever became citizens. My grandfather went back to Italy before ww2, and did not come back. I have some paper work on all this. I'm wondering how much it all costs to get an Italian passport. My mother was born in 1926.
Looks like you’re eligible. The passport costs somewhere around the lines of 125$.
What if my father was born in Italy and moved here in the 70's, also my grandfather is still an Italian citizen to this day.
Sounds promising. More research is needed however
So my great grandfather became a citizen after my grandmother was born but she was born before 1948. So I can not use my great grandfather because of my grandmother being born before 1948. Correct?
If your grandmother was born outside of Italy, and yes, you will need to fight this case with a Italian government. I say it’s worth it because I’ve heard other people getting around this scenario.
Hey so my great grandfather was an immigrant. He was born in 1886ish and migrated in 1913. I know his name before and after, where he lived before. I've been researching his history in order to find information on him to see if I can claim citizenship as well. I think everything lines up well except that I can't find any information on whether he ever naturalized or not. Closest I can get is 3 different census papers where he claimed he wasn't on one, and claimed he was naturalized on the other two. I can't prove it though since census is just whatever information he decided to give out. And I can't find any information on that online. Any tips or ideas on where to go from here?
Hey. Do what I did. Write to the national archives and request them to do a search. You could also try a search via homeland security; I did this in 2007 so I can't remember exactly who I used, but you will need to write to someone that will produce a letter that attests to your GGF's citizenship status. In my case it was a "No records found result." Once you've submitted your request, unfortunately it is a long wait. However if you want, try reaching out to your local politicians office and ask them to contact whoever is handling your request. I did this and got my response a week later. Miracle? Coincidence? Possibly, but it's worth a shot anyway.
How long did it take you to get your Italian passport?
3 years
Did you have to have the certificate of nonexistence apostilled and translated?
I really can't remember however I don't believe so. Double check that if you're not sure.
Hi Dave, hope all is well. My wife and I are looking to buy property in Italy. Any suggestions?
Hi Jeff! Cool last name. I might be able to help you but can you be more specific? What type of property ? Where in Italy? Seasonal or permanent?
@@DavidsDoseofItaly hi Dave, thanks for the response. We are thinking an apartment that we can use a few months out of the year and maybe rent out on a Verbo or Air B&B platform. We really like Florence because it seems easier to travel from. I was just wondering about all the particulars like legal stuff and if I need to be a resident.
Thanks
@@22Jeffreyb I suggest you contact a "commercialista" , lawyer or a company who is involved in managing a B&b.
Italian laws are often very complicated!
Florence is a wonderful city but think about the fact it's already full of B&b and hotels., so you'd be facing some competition.
Also I suggest checking flight prices, because the Florence airport is small and I think rather expensive.
If you are thinking of coming to Rome then I suggest taking the train since the the trip is about 1 hour with Italo train or "le frecce di trenitalia ".
Maybe a good option about the B&b could be buying a B&b rather than creating one from scratch. You'll pay more for it than a private house but it is already supposed to have all the authorizations and red tape done and completed. No, I don't think you need to be a resident to do this, but I am not a lawyer so do check thoroughly. I hope this helps!
My Ancestor Antonio died before 1861 so i can not apply for Italian Citizenship...i have tried...The Italian states were United by Garibaldi in 1861...so if your ancestor died before 1861 you cannot apply...
Sorry to hear that.
I took a dna test and only had 2,2% Italian , how far should I go to know my ancestor
It doesn’t matter how much Italian DNA you have. You simply need to provide the right documentation.
Thanks so much. I have the same lineage and the tip is much appreciated.
My great grandmother never became a US citizen. So we’re would that put me?
I would say that puts you in a good position. But you need to find out in what year your grandmother was born would be the first child born in United States. If she was born after January 1, 1948 then it would seem you have the greenlight.
Hi, I am not interested in Italian citizenship as an American however I do want to expand our nonprofit services to Italy. Any idea??
I’d start with a permesso di soggiorno for work reasons which would allow you to live and work in Italy. After that I am not sure how to open a physical business in Italy. I say physical because businesses can now be
Exclusively online. NB: not legal or professional advice, consulate an international lawyer perhaps.
The red tape here is difficult. Just saying. Best of luck.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly thank you. I appreciate your feedback
Thanks for this video. Im just yryimg to navigate through all this. Im ggf>gm>m.u.mom was born in 1952 so I think the 1948 law does not apply if i am reading correctly. Hope to get to your position someday. Ciao!
Hi Chad. hard to tell because I don't quite understand the whole picture. I'd need to know who was the first child born in America (or outside Italy). if it's a women (your mom?) and born after 1952 then yes that looks like a green light.
@@DavidsDoseofItaly yes my mom was born in 52 so my grandmother would be eligible to pass it down to her if I read it correctly.
Just remember that the first child born outside of Italy had to have been born before 1948, and it had to been a boy. If the first child born outside of Italy was a girl and born after 1948 then you’re good to go.
Hello David, do you think it's best to gather all documents here in the USA, apostilling my documents, get a work/student Visa in
Hi Christine. If they were issued in the US then yes. As for the Visa I am not sure whether it’s easy to get it in the US or in Italy. In the end it’s always a bureaucratic thing so I guess it’s indifferent. I hope this answers your question
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Hello, I see my full question was cut off. Do you think it is faster/best to submit all documents once ready to LA consulate or in Italy? I'd take care of all the bureaucracy stuff before submitting citizenship documents in Italy. I feel like If I'm going to become a citizen might as well do it in Italy, right??
Good question. I would give it a shot here in Italy because in the end the consulate has to send your documents to Italy so ….might as well cut out “the middleman “.
The only thing is make sure your documents are 100% accurate. I had to go back to the NY consulate 3-4 times because of inaccuracies. Make sure you contact the consulate and ask them what their procedure is for applying in their town Ask in italiano otherwise you’ll never get a response back
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Okay...good advise! I should pay for someone to help me here to verify all documents are correct instead of paying airfares back to SoCal because of mistakes. 👍🏼
One of my subscribers is using itamcamp which seems to be going well. The total fee was 4000$ but they offered an installment payment plan. In the end you’re paying someone else to do the heavy lifting for you
Does it matter how many generations?
No. The consulate is lenient as long as you have the proper documentation
@@DavidsDoseofItaly what if your ancestor lived in Italy…before the unification of Italy ?
Birth certificate for Italian nationality must be from normal entry? plz ans me request
can you rephrase the question?
@@DavidsDoseofItaly yes bro What documents are required for an Italian citizen
What if it is your great great grandfather?
I asked the same question at the consulate and they told me that as long as you could produce all the documents needed it could be done
What if your ancestors that emigrated from Italy had children in the US while they weren't citizens but then became US citizens much later in life?
Hi. I would need more information however, it would seem that the children would qualify.
Great vid brother! See you in Italy someday. Pizzo in Sicily was an awesome city . I recommend for anyone to go. Very quiet and not touristy . ❤️🔥
Thank you ☺️. Do you mean Pizzo Calabro in Calabria ?
Re 1861 - what you said is not true. My Greatgrandfather was born before 1861 in Genoa which was then part of the Kingdom of Sardinia. He came to the US as a Teenager and died at age 40 - without becoming a US citizen. Italian Citizenship lawyers assure me that he qualifies BECAUSE HE WAS ALIVE AFTER 1861. If he had dies in 1860 - I wouldn't qualify.
I'm in the middle of gathering my Documents. This is a lo g process because many old Docs have misspellings or incorrect dates and these must be amended before they are translated and Apostilled for submission to a Consulate in the US - or directly in Italy.
Hi Suzanne. Ah yes I see your confusion. I should have said if they born and died before the unification of Italy then they don’t qualify. I only said if they were born before 1861 then don’t qualify. My apologies. But I did say they qualify if they were alive after the unification.
It took me three years so I feel your frustration. If you can get it done in Italy it might be easier. Let me know if you have other questions
@@DavidsDoseofItaly Thanks for your quick response. YES it's a long process. I began last April and have many Docs but there are problems like - where my Grandparents were born (PA) no Birth Records were kept until 1906 and the relevant Grandfather was born in 1890. Hopefully there's a Baptismal Record somewhere...
Seems that everyone comes up against these problems one way or another.
IF I get the Docs in order - I will submit them in Italy. Don't have years to wait for Consulate appointments here!
@@suzannederringer1607 have you tried reaching out to the Catholic Church and see if they have records ?
@@DavidsDoseofItaly The Diocese of Pittsburgh has just come through with Grandpa's Baptismal Record. They don't have one for his wife, my Grandma - a flood probably in the Church basement...But GF is thr relevant person. I can have a court ordered BC for Grandma if I like - I ha e her Death Certificate and other things with DOB.
Yes it's a long journey into the Past! I now have almost all Docs. They need translated and apostilled. Hopefully will moapostles. later this year and present my Claim.
@@suzannederringer1607 That's good news! I frequently suggest reaching out to the church when you need records and I glad they came through. The apostile is not hard to get but every state has different procedures. Boston was easy (jn 2007). 5$ and within an hour they gave me the apostilled document. Hartford was 20$ and I got it in the mail within a week!
Nothing against you at all my friend. Its kind’ve messed up thought that non italian citizens cant apply through descendant because my mother came to America at a young age and had to renounce Italy to be here. I have so many cousins aunts and uncle who live in Italy and who are citizens. But i cant become a citizen because my mother who was a young age and couldn’t make her own decision renounced her country? Its just messed up for those who have family in italy still living and aren’t dead and want to be apart of that culture.
I get you. I think it should be dealt with on a case by case basis. It’s not fair that I inherited my Italian citizenship from my great grandfather and you can’t from your mother.
@@DavidsDoseofItalybut isn't supposed to be able to go back even further? Like your grandmother?
@@Kevin-oj2uo yes but it depends on when the first child born the country was born.
Unfortunately, before 1948 women were not allowed to pass on their Italian citizenship.
However, in the comment above, they’re talking about a different situation. This is when children at a young age become citizens of a different country and before 1992 this was seen as renouncing your Italian citizenship.
My father’s uncle was in this situation. He came to the US from Italy at the age of two and before his first child was born. He became a US citizen so my father’s cousin can’t inherit his father’s citizenship.
Good news for anyone in my situation. Even if my dad broke the chain (he was naturalized Canadian two years before my birth). Because of my Italian ancestry, I could become a citizen after living in Italy for just 3 years (compared to 4 years for Europeans, 5 years for political refugees and 10 years for the rest).
The law :
3 anni di residenza legale: per lo straniero di cui il padre o la madre o uno degli ascendenti in linea retta di secondo grado sono stati italiani per nascita o per lo straniero nato in Italia e ivi residente;
Not sure if fiscal residence (half a year + one day) is the same as legal residence :
Residenza fiscale : È residente in Italia ai fini delle imposte sui redditi chi per la maggior parte dell’anno (almeno 183 giorni l’anno, 184 in quelli bisestili).
Also :
La residenza legale non si acquisisce nel momento in cui il cittadino straniero ottiene il primo permesso di soggiorno ma quando si iscrive all’anagrafe della popolazione residente. Significa che il cittadino deve avere una residenza anagrafica ininterrotta e continuativa, cioè senza i cosiddetti «buchi di residenza».
That is in fact, fantastic news and this is something that I didn’t know. I’ve had quite a few people comment here who have parents born in Italy, but yet are in eligible because of the parent acquiring foreign citizenship before the child was born.
I will definitely keep this in mind so thank you for sharing that I don’t know if that law would apply to me because it says second-degree so I take that to mean my grandparents and they were born in the United States. Luckily, my great grandfather was a nonresident alien in the United States and so I was able to inherit his citizenship.
Ciao David,un abbraccio 😉👍🍻
Ciao Massi! Molto graditi , sia il commento sia la voglia di questi boccali di birra !
Grande!
Great im screwed my mom became a citizen in the united states before I was born there goes my hope of becoming an italian Citizen
Not necessarily. I read recently that if you have Italian parents and you find yourself in this situation, you can live here for 3 years and you would then qualify for Italian citizenship.