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Without a doubt, the most desired passport in the world is the Italian one. If you have one of these, you can easily enter and leave European countries without needing a visa. To give you an idea, this passport allows you to visit more than 180 countries. In fact, one of them is outside the European continent, which is the United States.
It made you want to have access to it, didn't it?
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But do you know how?
In this article, we will help you find out if you have Italian descent so you can get the most coveted passport on Earth. And if you really have it, you'll know how to have it in your possession.
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Discovering your Italian ancestry
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To find out if you have Italian descent and are entitled to the most desired passport in the world, the first step is to investigate your family. To do this, discuss ideas with your family members, especially older ones. They may have some very important information about their origin.
It's also cool to see if they have any old documents that show clues to their ancestry. There, you may come across birth certificates, marriage certificates and even letters.
However, if this initial step does not yield results, go in search of these documents yourself. Dig deeper and look at details of possible Italian immigration records, such as ship manifests, which may indicate the date and location of your ancestors' arrival in your country.
In this case, it is worth taking a look at museums and libraries. These locations are perfect for deeper research.
Your surname can also give you signs of your decline. For example, Abate, Bacci, Callegari, D'Angelo and Fabbri, are well-known Italian names. You can use sites like Behind the Name to confirm the origin of its name.
Finally, the last suggestion we give you is: create a family tree. Collect all the information you got from your family and see if you can get a result. If necessary, invest in a professional genealogist who has extensive experience to help you.
Read more: Applications for traveling and seeing the world without leaving home
I discovered that I have Italian descent. And now?
To access the most desired passport in the world, you need to follow the steps below:
- Check that your data in AIRE is up to date;
- Schedule an appointment to apply for your passport at the Italian consulate responsible for your area of residence;
- Present the necessary documentation, in agreement with the consulate.
What documents are requested?
In general, the documents requested are:
- Completed and signed request form;
- Italian identity card (carta d'identità) or valid Italian passport;
- Proof of payment of the application fee;
- Two recent and identical 3×4 photos.
How valid is the Italian passport?
- Over 18 years old: 10 years
- Under 3 years old: 3 years old
- From 3 to 18 years old: 5 years
How long does it take to get an Italian passport?
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This will depend on the country and consulate responsible for your request. In Italy, for example, the process is super fast and only takes 15 days. In other places, this period can reach up to 30 days.
See some examples:
- Brazil: 30 days
- United States: 30 days
- Portugal: 15 days
- France: 30 days
- Japan: 15 days
- South Korea: 21 days
Read more: Temporary and volunteer work apps for travelers
How much does it cost to get an Italian passport?
This also varies depending on the consulate where you will issue the passport. But we will give you the value of the two main fees.
Italian citizenship recognition rate
- Average: between 300 and 500 euros
Passport issuance fee
- Fixed price: 116 euros
The other costs you may incur are: translation, document apostille and travel to the consulate.
How does the Italian passport work for minors?
Firstly, parents or legal guardians must be present at the interview at the consulate. If one of the parents is unable to attend, a power of attorney must be provided. In addition, those responsible must at least sign a travel authorization for him and this signature must be authenticated by a notary.
It should also be noted that in addition to the usual passport documentation, it is necessary to present the minor's translated and apostilled birth certificate.
Is it possible to get the most desired passport in the world without Italian ancestry?
Yes. To do this, you need to marry an Italian citizen. However, this marriage needs to last at least 3 years if they are not parents. But if you bring a child into the world, the time drops to 1.5 years. Additionally, you need to know that the application process can take months to complete.
Another way to obtain a passport is through naturalization by residence. Here, you need to live in Italy for at least 10 years legally. You also need to prove that you have sufficient income to support yourself, that you have no criminal record and are proficient in the Italian language.
If you manage to get hired in an Italian public position, you can also get a passport, but after 3 years of service. Another way is to be adopted by an Italian citizen, but this is a more difficult scenario to happen.
Bags packed?
Now, you know how to find out if you have Italian ancestry and gain access to the most desired passport in the world. Let's pack those bags and travel to the coolest countries in the world?
Good luck!
