Who can take the CILS?
Any foreign national, and Italian citizens living abroad, with no age limit. You need no particular educational qualifications and no lower-level CILS exam first.
B1 Cittadinanza is the level required for Italian citizenship. Whether you actually need it depends on your situation.
Sources: CILS, FAQ. Updated 13 November 2026.
Next steps
More questions
- When do CILS B1 Cittadinanza results come out?
- How do I check my CILS result online?
- I failed the CILS B1 Cittadinanza: what happens now?
- What is the pass mark for the CILS B1 Cittadinanza?
- Does the CILS B1 certificate expire?
- Where do I collect my CILS certificate?
- Can I appeal my CILS result?
- Can I see my CILS exam papers?
- How do I register for the CILS B1 Cittadinanza?
- How much does the CILS B1 Cittadinanza cost?
- Can I take the B1 citizenship exam online?
- I have a disability or health problem: can I get adjustments for the CILS?
- Where can I take the B1 citizenship exam?
- How many words for the CILS B1 Cittadinanza writing task?
- How long is the CILS B1 Cittadinanza exam?
- Are the recordings played twice in the CILS B1 Cittadinanza listening test?
- Do you lose points for wrong answers in the CILS B1?
- I have a B2 or C1 certificate: is it OK for citizenship?
- How long does Italian citizenship take after applying?
- Do I need a PEC address for the citizenship application?