ITALY INVESTOR VISA
Key Facts
Processing Time
Approximately 4 - 6 months
Visa-Free Travel
Access to the European Schengen Area
Minimum Investment
Starting from €250,000
Family Eligibility
The main applicant, spouse or legal partner, children under 18, dependent adult children with serious health conditions or disabilities, and dependent parents (typically over 65)
Main Advantages
- Eligibility for permanent residency after 5 years and citizenship after 10 years (B1 Italian language requirement applies)
- Italian citizenship provides full EU mobility rights, including Switzerland
- No strict physical presence requirement
- Right to live, work, and study in Italy
- Access to high-quality education and public healthcare
- Excellent quality of life with a Mediterranean climate and safe, welcoming environment
- Visa-free travel across 29 Schengen countries
- Favorable lump-sum tax regime with exemptions on foreign income, inheritance, gift, and wealth taxes
About Italy
Italy, globally recognized for its profound cultural and artistic heritage, remains one of the most desirable destinations for expatriates. From breathtaking landscapes and elegant coastal towns to world-renowned cuisine and wine, Italy offers a refined yet relaxed lifestyle.
The Italian Investor Visa provides a flexible pathway to residency through a range of investment options tailored to different investor profiles. Successful applicants typically obtain residency within three to four months, unlocking the opportunity to live in one of Europe’s most iconic destinations.
Application Process Overview
The application process generally takes around four months from submission to approval.
Step 1: Client due diligence and agreement signing
Step 2: Application for the Nulla Osta (certificate of no impediment), followed by visa application through the Italian Consulate in the applicant’s country of residence
Step 3: Issuance of entry visa
Step 4: Within 8 days of arrival in Italy, application for a residence permit (including biometric data submission)
Step 5: Completion of the qualifying investment within 90 days of entry
Step 6: Issuance of residence permit
The initial residence permit is valid for 2 years. It can be renewed for an additional 3 years and subsequently in 3-year increments, provided the investment is maintained and suitable accommodation in Italy is secured.
Qualifying Investment Options
Applicants must choose one of the following investment routes:
- Italian Shares: Minimum €500,000 investment in Italian companies (reduced to €250,000 for innovative start-ups)
- Government Bonds: Minimum €2,000,000 investment in Italian government bonds
- Public Interest Projects: Minimum €1,000,000 contribution to projects of public interest (such as culture, education, research, environment, or heritage). This option is a non-refundable donation
The investment must be completed only after application approval and entry into Italy, and must be maintained throughout the validity of the visa.
Requirements
- Applicants must be over 18, non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals, with no serious criminal record and no prior expulsion or entry ban within the Schengen Area
- Applicants must hold valid health insurance covering their stay in Italy