Italian passport

[Nlsges]

Hi,
Both of my grandparents, Antonio and Antonia Mannella, were born in Ateleta, Abruzzo. I have their dates of birth, but not birth certificates. They were married in Ateleta and I do have their marriage certificate, in Italian. I also have my Dad's birth certificate from Pittsburgh, Pa. My grandfather was killed in a streetcar accident when my dad was 6 yrs. old. I do not believe my grandfather was ever naturalized, but do not know for sure. My husband and I just retired to Arezzo and I really want to get a passport. Life would be much easier. Is there anyone out there who can give me some advise? I know the consulate I would neetto go through is in LAX. The problem is that even for a residency permit, they said they have to keep my passport for over 2 weeks. I have no idea about time they would need my passport for them to approve a dual citizenship. We are renting an apartment here on a long term lease.
Thank you,
Nancy

[mler]

The process for obtaining dual citizenship can be a long and frustrating one, but you certainly will not need to give up your US passport during the process.

Since you reside (I assume legally) in Arezzo, you can apply there; but the documents you need are, at minimum, the same as those you would need in the US.

You will need to obtain your grandparents' birth certificates and proof that your gf naturalized after the birth of your father or that he never naturalized. You will also need your parents' marriage certificate (apostilled and translated) as well as your own (also apostilled and translated). And, of course, you will also need the relevant death certificates.

Living in Italy would certainly be easier with citizenship, so it may well be worth the effort.

Best of luck.