As a general rule, Naturalization was a two-step process that took a minimum of 5 years.
1. After residing in the United States for 2 years, an alien could file a "Declaration of Intention" (so-called "First Papers") to become a citizen.
2. After 3 additional years, the alien could "Petition for Naturalization". After the petition was granted, a Certificate of Citizenship was issued to the alien.
These two steps did not have to take place in the same court. A copy of the Petition was kept at the court, and a copy of the Petition and Certificate was sent to the Department of Immigration and Naturalization Services, which is now USCIS. After 1952, the Declaration of Intention was no longer required. These records include the alien's month and year (or possibly the exact date) of immigration into the United States, the date and place of birth, the occupation as well as the spouse’s name and place of birth, when they were married and their children’s dates and places of birth.
NOTE: Wives and minor children were automatically naturalized with their husbands and fathers.
If your Italian ancestor is deceased, check with relatives to see if any of them have an old copy. Becoming a naturalized citizen was probably a major event in your ancestor's life, and his or her certificate of naturalization was likely passed on to another member of the family.
The Italian Consulate requires certified copies of the Naturalization record.
If you would like to learn more about the qualification requirements and with our assistance determine if you qualify for Italian citizenship by descent, call or book a FREE CONSULTATION with us.