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How to file a citizenship application

How to file an Italian citizenship application online: SPID or CIE access, completing the form, attaching documents, paying the contribution and checking your file status.

Quick answer

Citizenship applications are filed exclusively online through the Ministry of the Interior portal: you need SPID or CIE access (dedicated registration is available for those resident abroad), you upload documents digitally, pay the contribution and keep your application number.

The process is fully digital: no paper files are handed in at counters. You upload documents to the portal and follow communications online.

After submitting you receive an application number (K10) to link and track your file; requests for additional documents arrive through the portal or by certified email.

Who this guide is for

First-time applicants for citizenship by residence or marriage.

What you need

  • SPID or CIE digital identity, or dedicated registration if resident abroad
  • Scanned documents in the required formats and sizes
  • Contribution receipt and revenue stamp details
  • PEC or email address for communications

Step-by-step process

  1. 1. Activate your digital identity

    SPID or CIE is needed to access the portal: activate it well before applying.

  2. 2. Download and complete the form for your route

    Choose the correct type: residence, marriage or another available route.

  3. 3. Prepare your document files

    Respect the file formats and size limits indicated by the portal: oversized files are rejected.

  4. 4. Pay the contribution

    Pay using the indicated methods and keep the receipt to attach to your documents.

  5. 5. Submit and keep your application number

    After submitting, link the application so you can track its status and receive communications.

  6. 6. Respond to requests for additional documents

    If the office asks for more documents, upload them within the stated time to avoid delays.

Documents

  • — Application documents in digital format
  • — Contribution payment receipt
  • — Revenue stamp details
  • — Valid identity document and residence permit
  • — Language certificate or exemption documents

Generate a printable checklist for your situation

Timelines

Typical stages and indicative timelines
Stage Typical timing Notes
Submission confirmation A few days The office confirms receipt and assigns an application number.
Administrative procedure 24 months, extendable to 36 Term set by law.

Timelines shown are typical ranges reported by official sources or observed in practice: they are not guaranteed.

What happens next

  • Check your file status on the portal periodically.
  • Keep your residence and permit valid during the procedure.
  • Keep every communication you receive.

Common mistakes

Mistake: Uploading illegible or oversized documents.

Better approach: Check format, resolution and size before uploading.

Mistake: Not linking the application after submitting.

Better approach: Link it immediately with your application number to follow progress.

Documents for citizenship

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Italian citizenship by residence

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Italian citizenship by marriage

The foreign spouse of an Italian citizen can apply for citizenship after two years of legal residence in Italy from the marriage d…

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The Italian tax code for foreign nationals

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Citizenship route checker

Helps you navigate citizenship routes and shows requirements and official sources.

Open the tool

Official sources

This page is based on the official sources listed below. Open them to check the most recent information directly with the competent authority.

  • ALI Portal — Citizenship (Ministry of the Interior)

    Ministero dell’Interno — DLCI · in italiano

    Portale telematico ufficiale per presentare e consultare la domanda di cittadinanza italiana (accesso con SPID o CIE).

    Link last verified:

  • AGID — Agency for Digital Italy

    Agenzia per l’Italia Digitale · in italiano

    Agenzia pubblica competente su identità digitale (SPID, CIE), accessibilità dei siti e servizi digitali della PA.

    Link last verified:

  • Prefectures — Territorial Government Office

    Ministero dell’Interno · in italiano

    Portale delle Prefetture, competenti su cittadinanza, sportelli unici per l’immigrazione e nulla osta.

    Link last verified:

  • Electronic Identity Card (CIE)

    Ministero dell’Interno · in italiano

    Sito ufficiale della Carta d’identità elettronica: come richiederla, costi e utilizzo per l’accesso ai servizi digitali.

    Link last verified:

Important notice

The information published on ItalyDocsHub is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Procedures and requirements may change. For current information and advice regarding your specific situation, always consult the relevant official authority or a qualified professional.

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