My father became an Italian (Dual) citizen through his paternal line, though he was born in the US, in 2005. His efforts and research took many years. Before he died one of my sisters became a Dual citizen by going to the Washington DC Embassy (in her jurisdiction). The process for her was relatively simple and quick.
So, our blood line was confirmed.
I made an appointment to the NYC Consulate for next year. They are requiring that I duplicate / repeat all of the efforts my father made. NYC requires that I get all the Cetificates from my great great grandfather 'til now...all certified, with Apostille and then translated. I was fine to do most of that, except for the expense.
The problem really begins with NY. Because we are a closed state I am unable to get my father and grandfather's Birth Certificates without a court order (which requires a lawyer). The only lawyer willing to help me needs to charge me $2,500. I think that I could almost fly to Italy myself and get my father's original documents.
After hearing of the additional expense I started to think of the injustice of NYC and their requirements. I do not want to anger them but I do think that I have a valid case.
*Note: my father was working with the Chicago Consulate. They initially agreed with me but after speaking with someone at NYC they quickly said "you have to do what they say".
Sorry this is so long. I need help and advice.
Should I go to the Washington DC Embassy and plead my case?
Thanks in advance.
bella
Since your father was an Italian citizen all you need to produce is your father's Italian birth certificate, and Italian marriage certificate. These two documents are ordered from the commune in Italy. NY State can go f**k i****f. This would appear to solve your biggest problem
Since your father is deceased you will also need the death certificate. If someone recorded the death with the Italian consulate you could also order that from the commune, but it is unlikely that this was done. The death certificate needs to be translated, apostilled, and authenticated if it is not issued by a jurisdiction in the NY consulate's jurisdiction.
Your records Would consist of your birth and marriage certificates which would need to be translated, apostilled, and authenticated.
Who told you that you had to get your GGF's records? The chain of citizenship passes from the father to the children. You are a category 1 applicant. Just read the instructions on the NY web site.
Since your father's file is in Chicago and you have been corresponding with them you may ask to have the file sent to NY. Ultimately, If NY is too much of a pain in the ass to deal with get a driver's license at your sister's address and go through DC. For all the rules published everywhere each consulate is a country unto itself. They do things their way no matter what the rules say. Chicago's comment to you is accurate. You must do things NY's way.
You would only want to go to DC with a local address so your application can be processed.