Do I lose my American citizenship if I become Italian?

Embracing Two Worlds: Keeping Your US Citizenship While Becoming Italian

The allure of Italy is undeniable. From its rich history and vibrant culture to its breathtaking landscapes and tantalizing cuisine, it’s no wonder many Americans dream of becoming Italian citizens. But a common concern often arises: Will embracing Italian citizenship mean saying goodbye to your American passport? The good news is, the answer is a resounding no.

The beauty lies in the concept of dual citizenship. Both the United States and Italy recognize that individuals can hold allegiance to two countries simultaneously. This means you can embrace your Italian heritage, acquire Italian citizenship, and enjoy the rights and privileges it offers without automatically forfeiting your American nationality.

Historically, some nations held strict views on citizenship, demanding absolute loyalty to one nation only. However, this approach has evolved, recognizing the complexities of globalization and the interconnectedness of families and cultures across borders. Italy took a significant step in 1992 by officially permitting dual citizenship. This progressive move mirrored the long-standing US stance, which generally does not force citizens to choose between national allegiances.

This means that as an American, becoming an Italian citizen is a relatively straightforward process, provided you meet the necessary requirements, such as demonstrating Italian ancestry (jus sanguinis), residing in Italy for a specific period (jus soli), or through marriage to an Italian citizen. Once granted Italian citizenship, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits, including the right to live, work, and vote in Italy and travel freely within the European Union, all while retaining your US passport and the rights that come with it.

The US government generally does not interfere with its citizens acquiring citizenship in another country. However, it’s crucial to remember that as an American citizen living abroad, you are still subject to US laws, including filing US income taxes regardless of where you reside.

In conclusion, if you’re contemplating becoming Italian, you can rest assured that you won’t have to relinquish your American citizenship. Both countries embrace the concept of dual citizenship, allowing you to fully embrace your Italian identity while retaining the security and benefits of being an American. So, go ahead, explore your Italian heritage, and embrace the best of both worlds!