Reform of consulates and AIRE: Italian citizenship takes center stage

The government’s stated goal is to modernize the diplomatic network, standardize procedures, and digitize administrative processes. The new provisions will gradually take effect through 2028.

Citizenship by Descent: Applications to Be Processed in Rome

The most significant change concerns the recognition of Italian citizenship jure sanguinis (by descent).
Until now, applications were submitted to Italian consulates; in the future, they will be handled by a new Central Service for the Reconstruction of Italian Citizenship, established within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI).

Starting in 2028, applications must be mailed directly to Italy. During the transitional phase (2026–2027), consulates will only be allowed to process a number of cases equal to those completed in the previous year.

Processing times will increase to 36 months (up from the previous 24). Only original paper documents will be accepted, and communications will take place via email, including non-certified addresses.
Applicants may authorize private companies to digitize their documentation, but will bear the associated costs.

Consulates will retain jurisdiction only for applications involving minors and for confirming previously recognized citizenship.

AIRE Integrated with the National Registry

Another major change concerns the integration of the AIRE with the National Registry of Resident Population (ANPR).
This direct link among municipalities, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and consulates will allow for real-time updates of data on Italians living abroad, simplifying communications and procedures for changes of residence or returns to Italy.

Failure to register with the AIRE will result in fines ranging from €200 to €1,000, and municipalities will automatically notify both the consulate and the Ministry of the Interior when a citizen permanently returns to Italy.

Documents and Legalizations: New Rules

The reform reintroduces the double legalization requirement for documents issued abroad: they must first be authenticated by local authorities and then validated by the relevant Italian consulate.
This return to previous practice aims to ensure greater security and authenticity of official documents.

With regard to identity documents, Italians residing abroad will be able to request the Electronic Identity Card (CIE)directly in Italy, through their municipalities, in accordance with MAECI and Ministry of the Interior regulations.
The card will be valid for travel abroad only in the absence of restrictions; otherwise, it will bear the notation “not valid for expatriation.”
Passport issuance procedures will also be updated to ensure more coordinated and uniform processes across consular offices.

Government’s Rationale and Concerns from the Communities

According to the government, the reform represents a step toward a more efficient and digital public administration — one capable of eliminating disparities among consulates and reducing backlogs, especially in citizenship applications.

However, many Italian communities abroad have voiced concern: they fear that centralizing applications in Rome could further extend processing times and weaken the direct relationship with consulates, which have traditionally served as the primary point of contact for citizens living outside Italy.

A Profound Change Between Modernization and Distance

The reform of the consular network and the AIRE marks a turning point in the relationship between Italians abroad and national institutions.
On one hand, it promises efficiency, transparency, and digital innovation; on the other, it risks distancing citizens from the structures that have long supported them in everyday matters — from citizenship recognition to travel documentation.

Time will tell whether this new organization will truly modernize consular services — or make access to Italian citizenship an even more complex process for those living far from their country of origin.