Will You Need to Speak Italian for Citizenship by Descent?
Quick clarity on the B1 Italian rule: who it applies to, who’s exempt for jure sanguinis, and why learning Italian can still be a smart move — plus a focused £50 mini-review if you want someone to sanity-check your route.
Resinaro Team••3 min read
The Truth About the B1 Requirement
If you’re an Italian-American (or have Italian ancestry) and you’re exploring the rewarding path of Italian citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis), you may have come across conflicting information about language requirements. One of the most common questions is: “Do I need to speak Italian to get citizenship by descent?” Let’s clear things up. Here’s the truth about the B1 Italian language requirement and whether it applies to you.
First, What Is the B1 Requirement?
The B1 Italian language requirement refers to a minimum level of Italian language proficiency—specifically, B1 level on the CEFR scale (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). This is considered an intermediate level, where you can hold conversations, understand everyday media, and write simple texts in Italian. This requirement was introduced in 2018 and applies to certain categories of citizenship applicants—but not all.
Key takeaways
- B1 Italian is not required for citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis).
- The B1 rule applies to naturalization paths (spouses, long-term residents).
- Learning Italian still improves daily life, bureaucracy, and cultural connection.
So, Do You Need to Speak Italian for Citizenship by Descent?
No, you do not need to speak Italian—or prove any level of Italian proficiency—if you’re applying for citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis). Applicants for Italian citizenship by descent are exempt from the B1 language requirement.
The B1 language requirement does NOT apply to you if:
- You are claiming citizenship through your Italian ancestors.
- You have the required documentation to prove unbroken lineage and eligibility.
- You’re applying through an Italian consulate, a 1948 court case, or directly in Italy (via a Municipality).
Who *Does* Need to Meet the B1 Requirement?
The B1 requirement applies to people seeking citizenship through naturalization, including:
- Non-Italian spouses of Italian citizens
- Long-term residents in Italy applying for citizenship
- Other foreign nationals not qualifying through descent
In these cases, proof of a B1-level Italian certificate from a recognized institution (like CELI or CILS) is mandatory.
Should You Learn Italian Anyway?
Even if it’s not required, learning Italian offers major benefits:
- Cultural Connection: Deepen your bond with your heritage.
- Ease of Travel and Residency: Live and move around Italy with confidence.
- Bureaucratic Navigation: Understand documents, appointments, and legal terms.
- Integration: Make friends, join local communities, and fully enjoy la dolce vita!
If you’re pursuing Italian citizenship by descent, you can breathe easy—there’s no language test standing in your way. However, learning Italian can enrich your experience as a future citizen of Italy. And if your journey eventually includes moving to Italy or marrying an Italian citizen, language skills will become a valuable (and possibly required) asset.
Ready to Start Your Citizenship Journey?
If you’re ready to start your journey toward Italian citizenship in 2025, it’s important to understand the application process. Common paths include citizenship by descent, marriage, or residency. Each path has specific requirements and paperwork, so expert guidance can make a big difference.
If you want someone to sanity-check your situation before you spend hundreds on certificates, translations or lawyers, you can now book a focused £50 Citizenship Route & Language Strategy Mini-Review directly on this page. Or, if you prefer a longer conversation, you can still book a broader consultation with us.
£50 Citizenship Route & Language Strategy Mini-Review
Get clear on whether the B1 Italian rule applies to you, which citizenship route makes sense next, and what to focus on first — without paying law-firm prices.
- We look at your situation: jure sanguinis vs naturalisation, where you live, and your goals.
- We tell you clearly whether the B1 Italian requirement should apply to your route or not.
- You get a short written summary with a realistic next-steps plan (not generic blog advice).
- Similar 1:1 calls with agencies or law firms are often priced in the hundreds of pounds — this is a lean, practical version for £50.
Resinaro is not a law firm and cannot give legal advice or guarantee citizenship. This mini-review focuses on practical clarity about routes, language requirements and document planning.