Are you stateless? Learn about your rights and how to regularize your status in Italy.

Statelessness: How to Obtain Recognition of Status and a Residence Permit in Italy

Being stateless means not being recognized as a citizen by any country in the world. It’s an invisible condition that affects thousands of people—often born in conflict zones, to undocumented parents, or in countries where citizenship is not automatically granted.

In Italy, it is possible to obtain recognition of stateless status and, as a result, a residence permit, but the process requires careful preparation, proper documentation, and qualified legal support.

🧭 Who Is Considered Stateless?

According to the 1954 New York Convention, ratified by Italy, a stateless person is someone not considered a national by any State under its laws.

Common causes include:

• Being born in a country that does not grant citizenship by birth (no jus soli)

• Inability to inherit citizenship from parents (lack of jus sanguinis)

• Loss of original citizenship due to political or legal changes

• Collapse of a State (e.g., former Yugoslavia, USSR)

• Ethnic or religious discrimination (e.g., Rohingya, Roma)

🎯 What Rights Does a Stateless Person Have in Italy?

Once recognized, stateless individuals are entitled to:

• A residence permit for humanitarian reasons or statelessness

• Civil registration in the local municipality

• Access to work, healthcare, and education

• A travel document for foreigners

• The right to apply for Italian citizenship by naturalization after a few years

📝 How to Obtain Stateless Status?

There are two pathways:

1. Administrative Procedure

(for those already recognized as stateless by another country or holding official documents)

Apply directly at the Questura (Immigration Office) with:

• A document proving recognition of stateless status by another country

• UNHCR or other supranational certificates

• Proof of residence in Italy

2. Judicial Procedure (most common)

If you don’t have official documents, you must file a petition at the Civil Court, including:

• Sworn declarations

• Birth certificates or school records

• Witness statements

• Any other proof of lack of citizenship

After reviewing the documents and your personal situation, the Italian court may grant stateless status by ruling, which allows you to obtain a residence permit and enjoy full rights.

📅 How Long Does the Stateless Residence Permit Last?

Generally, it is valid for 2 or 5 years and renewable. After 5 years of continuous residence, you can apply for Italian citizenship.

⚖️ Need Help Claiming Stateless Status?

Beggin Law Firm, specialized in immigration law and human rights, offers full legal assistance for:

• Gathering documents

• Drafting and filing your petition

• Submitting applications to the court or Questura

• Obtaining your residence permit and future citizenship

📞 Contact us today – every case is unique, and with the right legal support, you can assert your rights.