Frequently Asked Questions
Italian genealogy research or pursuing Italian dual citizenship can be a complicated process. We at Lo Schiavo Genealogica are dedicated and passionate about helping you connect with your family history and heritage, whether it be through research or becoming a citizen of Italy. The following information provides answers to several commonly asked questions, and you can always schedule a free discovery call to find out more!
How do you deliver results to your clients?
A genealogy research report is provided in .pdf format so it can be enlarged for easier viewing. Separate images for each document found are also provided. For a citizenship application, if you have an in-person appointment at the consulate, you will receive a binder with your application and applicable documents. If your appointment is virtual, we will upload the documents following the consulates instructions and mail the documents to them.
Do you prepare a family tree for your clients?
Sometimes, depending on the complexity of the results. There is always a summary of research results in a genealogical narrative format.
What kind of questions can be answered through genealogical research?
A wide variety, such as where your Italian ancestors were born, are you related to a famous person, or are you eligible for Italian citizenship.
How do I pay for services?
Payments can be made by credit card, Venmo, Square, or electronic funds transfers.
Do you offer refunds?
In certain instances. Your contract will detail the specifics of this.
How long does a research project typically take?
It depends on the extensiveness of what the client wants to accomplish and whether we have to order documents from Italian archives. Typically, a 3-4 generation project with some available online records, takes about 6-8 weeks.
Do I need to speak Italian in order to pursue dual citizenship?
If you are acquiring citizenship via jus sanguinis, or by blood, then there is no language requirement. If you are acquiring citizenship by marriage, then you must speak and read Italian at a B1 level and take a test proving your competency.
What are the basic steps of doing genealogy research?
Deciding on your research goals; determining available records and how to access them; doing the research. This can take several phases, as we build an ancestral tree with details from previously found documentation as a base; Preparing the report and translating the documents. We often discuss any peculiarities within the records and try to provide cultural context so that the results are clearly understood.
What are the basic steps to pursue dual citizenship?
Determining eligibility. We offer a free one hour evaluation of eligibility; deciding whether you will gather the documents yourself or ask for the help of a service provider; making an appointment or plans to apply onsite in Italy; gathering the documents and amending them for consistency; preparation of the application packet.
Do you offer training courses?
Yes. We have several webinars and courses available under ‘Resources’ on our website.
Do you offer support to Onsite Italian Dual Citizenship clients beyond assistance with documentation?
Yes. We have a team in Italy to help not only with navigating the application process, we also provide you with critical social support during your stay in Italy.
