Dreaming of Italian citizenship but stuck in a seemingly endless queue at the consulate? You're not alone. Italian law guarantees a decision on your application within 730 days, but consulate backlogs can stretch that timeframe to a frustrating 6-10 years. There's a better way! Filing a lawsuit "Against the Queue" (AtQ) allows you to bypass the consulate queue and have your case heard directly in an Italian court. In this post, we’ll guide you through the AtQ process, explaining its benefits, what you'll need to prepare, and how to choose the right Italian attorney.
Why Consider "Against the Queue"?
If you're facing long wait times for an appointment at the Italian consulate, here's why AtQ might be the solution for you:
Predictable Timelines: Courts operate on a set schedule, offering a clearer picture of when your case might be heard compared to the consulate's unpredictable wait times.
Consistent Requirements: Court procedures have established document requirements, reducing the risk of application rejections due to missing paperwork.
Reduced Stress: Skip the consulate appointment scramble altogether! With AtQ, you can focus on your case with your attorney.
Family Applications: Include your entire family in a single AtQ case, even if applying through different consulates in the US.
Finding the Right Italian Attorney
Choosing the right attorney is crucial for a successful AtQ application. Here's what to consider:
Specialization: Select an attorney who specializes in jure sanguinis cases. They'll have the expertise to navigate the intricacies of the Italian legal system for citizenship applications.
Cost Transparency: Attorney fees vary depending on the number of applicants and the complexity of your case. Discuss pricing structures upfront to avoid surprises.
Location Flexibility: Many AtQ cases proceed remotely. Your attorney's location within Italy is less important than their expertise.
Communication Style: Ensure clear communication with your attorney. Ask how they handle discrepancies in documentation and what additional supporting information they might require.
Case Document Preparation: Who will prepare your documents from collection to translations. Does the attorney offer this service or will you be on your own?
What Documents Do You Need?
To prepare for your AtQ case, you'll need to gather documentation that proves your efforts to obtain citizenship through the consulate and your eligibility for Italian citizenship. Here's a checklist:
Proof of Attempts:
Screenshots (minimum 6-7) showing you tried booking consulate appointments, with dates and times confirming no availability.
Emails demonstrating communication with the consulate regarding appointment difficulties, including standard responses or rejections.
Vital Records:
Birth certificates, marriage certificates, and naturalization records for all applicants (translated by a sworn translator).
Divorce decrees and name changes.
Depending on the attorney and the court you will file, small inconsistencies in your documents may be allowed.
The Application Timeline
The AtQ process unfolds in stages:
Court Date: Scheduling typically takes 12-18 months, depending on the region where you apply.
Approval Process: Once approved, expect another 6 months for bureaucratic procedures. This involves transmitting records to your local commune (comune) in Italy, which will then issue your Italian birth and citizenship certificates.
AIRE Registration: Finally, you can enroll in Aire (Anagrafe degli Italiani Residenti all'Estero) – the Registry of Italians Residing Abroad.
Conclusion
Don't let consulate backlogs delay your Italian citizenship dream. By filing an "Against the Queue" lawsuit, you can take control of the process and potentially receive your citizenship much faster. With the help of a qualified Italian attorney,navigating the AtQ process can be a smooth and successful journey.
Comments