Do you have the right to Spanish citizenship and Italian citizenship by descent? In this article, you’ll discover how to keep both passports without complications. Dual nationality is not only possible but also represents a strategic opportunity for those who wish to enjoy the benefits of belonging to two European countries. At Orience, we help you design the best legal strategy so you don’t have to give up any of your rights.
Is it possible to have dual Spain–Italy nationality?
Yes. Although both countries have different legal frameworks, both Spain and Italy allow dual nationality in certain cases. The key lies in how and when each nationality is acquired, as well as in properly notifying both administrations.
Spain: conditional recognition
Spain does not explicitly prohibit dual nationality but does establish specific conditions. Although there is an agreement with several Latin American countries, Italy is not among them. However, if you obtained Italian citizenship by ius sanguinis (right of blood) and maintained your Spanish nationality from birth, it is possible to keep both if the correct procedure is followed.
Italy: more flexible, but with obligations
Italy explicitly recognizes the possibility of holding multiple nationalities, even without a bilateral agreement. It does not require you to renounce your previous nationality nor limit the number of passports an Italian citizen may hold, though it does require notifying certain changes and keeping your consular registration up to date.
Steps to maintain both citizenships
Maintaining both nationalities requires planning and precise documentation. At Orience, we guide you step by step to ensure there are no mistakes.
1. Verify your eligibility by descent
- In the case of Italy, you must prove an unbroken bloodline up to your Italian ancestor, including birth, marriage, and death certificates.
- In the case of Spain, you may have been born to a Spanish father or mother, or qualify under special laws such as the Democratic Memory Law (valid until September 2025).
2. Submit the applications correctly
- Acquiring nationality by birth is not the same as by naturalization. At Orience, we analyze your case to choose the safest route.
- In many cases, we recommend obtaining Spanish nationality first if you already reside legally in Spain, and then applying for Italian citizenship through the consulate.
3. Notify the acquisition to the other country
It’s essential to notify the authorities of each country about the acquisition of the other nationality:
- In Spain, you must register in the Spanish Civil Registry that you have acquired Italian nationality by right of blood (ius sanguinis).
- In Italy, you must register your Spanish nationality with the Italian consulate and keep your AIRE (Anagrafe degli Italiani Residenti all’Estero) record updated.
4. Regularly renew passports and certificates
Both countries require you to keep your documentation valid:
- Renew your Spanish and Italian passports.
- Register with the local municipality if you reside in Spain.
- Provide regular updates to the Italian consulate if you live abroad.
Advantages of keeping dual nationality
Being a citizen of two European countries opens many doors, especially since both are within the Schengen Area and the European Union.
- Unrestricted access to employment: you can work, study, or live in any EU country.
- Ease in inheritance, banking, and investment: both legal systems recognize you as a full national.
- Stability for your children: you can pass on both citizenships to your descendants.
- Legal security: in the face of political changes, you retain consular protection from two countries.
How can Orience help you?
At Orience, we analyze your family and legal situation to help you maintain both nationalities without errors or delays. We handle document collection, translation, apostille, and submission on your behalf. In addition, we design the safest legal strategy if you wish to live in Spain, Italy, or another European country.
Dual nationality by descent is a decision that can transform your future and that of your family. Do it with expert support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I lose one of the two nationalities if I don’t renew it?
Yes. Especially in Spain, if you live abroad and don’t declare your intention to retain Spanish nationality before turning 21 (if you were born outside the country), you could lose it. That’s why it’s essential to keep your documentation up to date.
Can I pass both nationalities to my children?
Yes, but under certain conditions. Italy allows automatic transmission through the paternal or maternal line if there are no breaks in lineage. Spain does as well, although in some cases it requires that children be registered in the Civil Registry before a certain age or reside in the country for a period. Orience can help you analyze the applicable requirements.
What happens if the countries change their laws?
Dual nationality is subject to legislative changes. That’s why Orience keeps you informed about any reforms that may affect you and helps you update your status to protect your acquired rights.
Do I have to pay taxes in both countries?
It depends on where your tax residence is. Having dual nationality does not automatically mean double taxation. There are agreements between Spain and Italy to avoid this issue, and at Orience we offer tax advisory services to optimize your situation.
Can I have Spanish and Italian nationality if I already have another one?
In principle, yes—especially if the third nationality was acquired by birth. Both Spain and Italy evaluate each case individually. Ideally, you should consult before acquiring another nationality to avoid legal conflicts. Orience can help you assess the risks and opportunities.
Conclusion
Maintaining dual Spanish and Italian nationality is possible if you know the steps and follow them precisely. At Orience, we design with you a solid and secure migration strategy so you can enjoy your rights without giving up your heritage or your future.