Italian Citizenship Language Requirement: What Level Do You Need

Italian citizenship by naturalisation requires a B1 Italian certificate; CILS B1, CELI B1, or PLIDA B1 are all accepted. This is the single most common language goal my students bring, so here is exactly what you need to know.

A note on sources. I am an Italian teacher and linguist, not an immigration lawyer — this is a language blog. The language side is what I can answer for: what B1 actually means, which exams exist, and how you prepare for one. The legal side I do not interpret. The B1 requirement comes from the Italian citizenship law (Law 91/1992, Art. 9.1) and applies to applications filed from 4 December 2018; which certificates count, and who is exempt, is set by the Ministry of the Interior, not by language schools. Check it yourself before you book an exam: the citizenship portal of the Ministry of the Interior (cittadinanza.dlci.interno.it), your prefettura if you live in Italy, your consulate if you live abroad — and a lawyer or patronato for your own case. The list below is the one my students most often meet, not the full legal list.

The B1 Requirement, Explained

Since the language test requirement was introduced, applicants for Italian citizenship by naturalisation must demonstrate a B1 level of Italian. B1 is the CEFR “independent user” level: you can handle everyday life, express opinions, and deal with familiar topics in speech and writing.

You prove it with a certificate, not by an interview with the comune. A recognised certificate from an official body is the standard route.

Which Certificates Are Accepted

The commonly accepted certificates include:

• CILS: University for Foreigners of Siena;
• CELI: University for Foreigners of Perugia;
• PLIDA: Dante Alighieri Society.

The certificate must show B1 or higher. Because rules can change, always confirm the current accepted list with your local authorities or a professional before booking an exam. My CILS vs CELI comparison helps you pick between the main two.

Exemptions and Exceptions

Exemptions exist in specific circumstances, for example certain documented health situations, or if you already hold a recognised qualification taught in Italian. These are case-by-case, and the rules have evolved over time. If you think you might qualify for an exemption, get it confirmed in writing before you plan around it.

A Realistic Path to B1

The practical plan is the same for everyone:

1. Assess honestly with a B1 past paper;
2. Study weekly across all four skills;
3. Speak regularly: B1 demands independent production, which needs live practice;
4. Do timed past papers in the final months.

For a detailed timeline, my guide on how long to prepare for Italian B1 breaks it down week by week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Italian language level is required for citizenship?
B1, demonstrated with a recognised certificate such as CILS B1, CELI B1, or PLIDA B1.

Which certificates are accepted?
CILS, CELI, and PLIDA (from officially recognised bodies) at B1 or higher.

Who is exempt?
Specific cases such as certain disability situations or holders of recognised Italian qualifications. Confirm with the authorities.

How long does it take to get B1 Italian?
12–18 months from zero; 3–6 months from A2, with consistent weekly study.

Where can I check the rules myself?
On the citizenship portal of the Ministry of the Interior (cittadinanza.dlci.interno.it), at your prefettura if you live in Italy, or at your Italian consulate if you live abroad. The requirement sits in Law 91/1992 (Art. 9.1); this blog explains the language side, so use any list you read online — including this one — as a starting point, not as the legal text.