http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/2177-7055.2015v36n71p279 The traditional legal institution of nationality has been undergoing relevant transformations, mainly due to the recent phenomenon observed in the operation of state policies focused on the reform of laws regulating nationality, aimed at introducing different criteria for the assignment of status civitatis to foreigners interested in it. The present study intends to verify if, and to what extent, the policies implemented by Member States of the European Union, designed to grant nationality through “mass naturalization” procedures or even its mere “sale”, are not correct ways to use this legal institution for political and economic ends in a sharp contrast with the European and international standards.