Italy's Referendum on Citizenship: A 5-Year Wait or 10?

Italy's Upcoming Referendum: A Crucial Vote on Citizenship Italy is preparing for a significant referendum on June 8th and 9th, 2025, with the fifth question focusing on changes to citizenship laws. This question proposes reducing the legal residency requirement for non-EU citizens to obtain Italian citizenship from ten years to five. The current law, established in 1992, requires a decade of uninterrupted legal residency. This referendum seeks to amend Article 9, comma 1, letters b) and f), of Law 91 of February 5, 1992. Supporters argue this change could affect up to 2.5 million people. "This referendum is about fairness and integration," says a spokesperson for the referendum campaign. "Reducing the waiting period will allow many long-term residents to finally become citizens and fully participate in Italian society." A "yes" vote would repeal the 10-year requirement, reverting to the previous 5-year rule, while a "no" vote would maintain the status quo. The outcome will have significant implications for immigration policy and the lives of many non-EU citizens residing in Italy. The referendum is expected to generate considerable debate and public interest in the coming days.