Key facts
| Italian-Canadians | Around 1.5 million people report Italian ancestry. |
|---|---|
| Entering Italy | Visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180 in the Schengen area. |
| ETIAS | No confirmed start date yet (the EU postponed it; expected in 2027). |
| Apostille | Canada joined the Apostille Convention in January 2024: Global Affairs Canada or the competent provincial authority. |
| Italian consulates | Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver, plus the Embassy in Ottawa. |
| Working holiday | Yes: Italy–Canada Youth Mobility agreement for young people (roughly 18–35), up to 12 months. |
| Social security | Italy–Canada agreement, plus a separate agreement with Quebec. |
Italian citizenship by descent in 2026
Since 28 March 2025, people born abroad with another citizenship only qualify by descent if they filed by 27 March 2025, if a parent or grandparent held only Italian citizenship, or if an Italian parent lived in Italy for 2 continuous years before their birth. The 2026 Court of Cassation ruling on the minor issue (24045/2026) helps families whose ancestor naturalised as Canadian while children were minors.
Youth Mobility: live and work in Italy for up to a year
Young Canadians can get a visa to travel and work in Italy for up to 12 months under the Youth Mobility agreement. It's a good way to try life in Italy, and later you may switch to a work or study permit if you meet the requirements.
Other routes
- Elective residence for retirees with passive income.
- Digital nomad visa for skilled remote workers.
- Student visa and EU Blue Card.
- Citizenship by residence: 2 years if a parent or grandparent was an Italian citizen by birth.
Canadian documents
| Document | Where |
|---|---|
| Birth, marriage and death certificates | Provincial vital statistics office |
| Proof of non-naturalisation | IRCC search of citizenship records |
| Criminal record | RCMP certified criminal record check (fingerprints) |
| Apostille | Global Affairs Canada or provincial authority, depending on the document |
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need consular legalisation for Canadian documents?
No. Since January 2024 Canada issues apostilles, which Italy accepts.
Can I work in Italy with the Youth Mobility visa?
Yes, within the limits of the agreement. We can help you plan a switch to a longer permit.
Can I combine Canadian and Italian pension contributions?
Yes, under the Italy–Canada social security agreement (and the Quebec agreement for Quebec pensions).
Last updated: 2026-10-23. This guide is general information and does not replace a lawyer's advice on your specific case. Italian immigration rules change often.