The Italy Golden Visa, also known as the Investor Visa for Italy, is an attractive program that allows foreign investors and their families to obtain residency in Italy by making a significant investment in the Italian economy.

The Italian Golden Visa provides a pathway to permanent residence in Italy after five years of holding a temporary residence permit.

Along with residency, it offers numerous benefits, such as the right to live, work, and study in Italy, as well as the ability to travel freely across the Schengen Area and access healthcare and education.

In this article, we will explore the key features of the Italy Golden Visa, including the application process, investment options, eligibility criteria, and the benefits of holding this visa for both individuals and their families.

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What is the Italy Golden Visa program?

italy flag passport requirementsThe Italy Golden Visa, also known as the Investor Visa for Italy, is a residency-by-investment program that allows non-EU citizens to obtain legal residence in Italy by making a significant financial investment in the country.

The visa application process is quick and grants a two-year residence permit, which can be renewed for an additional three years. To qualify for the Investor Visa, applicants can choose from the following investment options:

  • Startup Investment: €250,000 in shares of an innovative Italian startup.
  • Equity Instruments: €500,000 in stakes or shares of a company based in Italy.
  • Italian Government Bonds: €2 million in Italian Treasury Bonds (with a minimum residual maturity of 2 years).
  • Philanthropic Donation: €1 million donation supporting public interest projects (culture, education, research, etc.).

What are the benefits of an Italian Investor Visa?

The Italy Golden Visa offers investors and their families Italian residency in a country with rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine. From Lake Como to the Dolomites and Tuscany, Italy provides a high quality of life, with excellent healthcare, education, and a strong economy.

  • Visa-free travel in Schengen: You can stay in any Schengen country for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
  • Exemption from EES and ETIAS Requirements: Third-country travelers must register their biometric data when entering the EU under the EU Entry/Exit System (EES). Additionally, travelers from countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia must apply for an ETIAS authorization to visit Europe. However, Golden Visa holders are exempt from both of these requirements.
  • Right to live and work in Italy: You can live, work, and do business in Italy without restrictions.
  • Family Reunification:Your application should include your spouse, children under 18, dependent children over 18, and parents over 65 without extra investment.
  • Access to healthcare & education: Enjoy high-quality healthcare and education through Italy’s public system.
  • Path to EU Citizenship: If you maintain your investment, you can apply for Italian and EU citizenship after 10 years of residency.
  • No residency requirement: You are not required to live in Italy full-time to keep your visa, giving you flexibility.
  • Tax benefits – New tax residents can access a special flat-tax regime for financial advantages.

Who is eligible for the Italian Investor Visa?

  • The primary applicant must be at least 18 years old.
  • A qualifying investment or donation must be made as per government requirements.
  • A clean criminal record certificate and Certificates of No Pending Charges must be provided.
  • Proof of funds must include the following:
    • A bank letter states compliance with FATF international anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism standards.
    • A self-declaration of the investment.
    • A board resolution accepting the investment.
    • If required, a lawyer or accountant must certify a declaration confirming the availability and legal origin of funds.
  • Applicants must provide evidence of suitable accommodation in Italy (this is required for the residence permit, not the initial visa application).
  • The investment or donation must be completed within three months of entering Italy.
  • Payment of the required fees.

Qualifying dependents

  • Spouse
  • Children under 18
  • Dependent children over 18 who are unable to support themselves due to permanent health conditions
  • Dependent parents who do not have other children to support them in their home country, or parents over 65 who their other children cannot support.

Italy Golden Visa Investment Options

An investor visa can only be issued for one type of investment, and you cannot combine different investments. Investments made before applying for the visa do not qualify. To keep your residence permit, you must maintain the investment for at least five years.

Startup Investment

€250,000 in shares or stakes of an innovative startup based in Italy. The official list of eligible startups is updated weekly and available on the Italian Chamber of Commerce portal.

Equity in an Italian Company

€500,000 in shares or stakes of a company based and operating in Italy. The Italian limited company must be active with at least one balance sheet filed by the time of your application.

Italian Government Bonds

€2 million in Italian government bonds (such as BTP, CTZ, or CCT). The investment must have a minimum maturity of two years and offer competitive returns through periodic interest payments.

Philanthropic Donation

€1 million donation to a public-interest project in fields like culture, education, scientific research, or heritage preservation. No ongoing management is required after the donation.

Italy Golden Visa Requirements

To apply for the Italy Golden Visa, you need to follow a few steps. The first step is submitting the Nulla Osta application. To do this, you must provide the required documents for both the Nulla Osta and the full Investor Visa application.

  • Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least 2 years and 3 months from the visa application date.
  • Passport Photos – Two recent passport-sized photos.
  • Criminal Record Certificate – A clean record from any country where you have lived for over 12 consecutive months in the past 10 years (from age 18).
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Required for the Certificate of No Impediment (Nulla Osta) to verify your professional background and qualifications.
  • Proof of Investment Funds – Evidence of financial assets’ source, ownership, and transferability.
  • Investment/Donation Description – Details of the chosen investment or donation, including recipient consent.
  • Commitment Declaration – A signed statement confirming your planned investment amount and intended Italian municipality of residence.
  • Proof of Accommodation in Italy – Hotel booking, rental lease, or home ownership documents.
  • Proof of Minimum Income – Evidence that your income meets the legal exemption threshold for healthcare costs (€8,263.31 for individuals, €11,362.05 for couples, and €516.46 per additional dependent).
  • Nulla Osta Certificate – A copy of the Certificate of No Impediment (Nulla Osta) issued by the Investor Visa for Italy Committee.
  • Proof of Residence – Evidence that you reside within the consulate’s jurisdiction where you are applying.
  • Bank Statements – Covering at least 3 months, showing the execution of the investment or donation.
  • Bank Letter – Validation from the institution that transferred the funds.
  • Certificate of Share or Bond Deposit – If investing in government bonds or company shares.
  • Donation Receipt (if applicable) – Confirmation from the recipient entity.

Note the following:

  1. All the documents you submit must be in original English or Italian, and if you have the original copies in different languages, ensure that they include a sworn translation.
  2. Besides the primary documents you must prepare, some supporting documents differ according to the type of investment you’re choosing for the Italian Investor Visa program. Read the following table carefully to know the documents you need for your case.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Italian Investor Visa

For the Italy Investor Visa application, these are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Gather the documents and submit all your documentation to the official Italian investor platform.
Step 2: Apply for Nulla Osta: Submit your application online through the Ministry of Economic Development. All documents must be submitted at once. Processing takes about 30 days but may be delayed if more information is needed.
Step 3: Receive Nulla Osta approval: Once approved, you’ll receive the Nulla Osta certificate, valid for six months. Apply for your visa before it expires.
Step 4: Apply for the Investor Visa: Submit your visa application at the Italian embassy or consulate with your Nulla Osta and other required documents. If approved, you’ll get an Investor Visa valid for two years, renewable for three more years.
Step 5: Travel to Italy: Enter Italy before your visa expires to continue the process.
Step 6: Apply for a residence permit: Within eight working days of arrival, apply at the local Questura (police headquarters). This permit is valid for two years and can be renewed.
Step 7: Make your investment: Complete your investment or donation within three months of entering Italy.
Step 8: Maintain your investment: Keep your investment for the full duration of your residence permit.
Step 9: Renew your residence permit: After two years, you can renew your permit for three more years, provided your investment remains active.
Step 10: Apply for permanent residence: After five years in Italy, you can apply for permanent residency.
Step 11: Apply for Italian citizenship: After 10 years, you become eligible to apply for Italian citizenship.

Italy Golden Visa Application Processing Time

Application Processing Time graphic

Validity of Italy Golden Visa

The residence permit for the Italy Golden Visa is valid for two years. During this time, you can enter Italy and apply for a residence permit.

The investor residence permit is also valid for two years, starting from the day you arrive in Italy. After two years, you can apply for a three-year renewal.

Renewing your Italy Golden Visa

The main condition for you to renew your Italy Investor Visa is to keep your investment in the country and maintain a valid residence permit. With at least 60 days before your current residence permit expires, you can apply for a new three-year residence permit. Make sure to have a new Nulla Osta application before applying for a renewal.

You should also know that the Italy Investor Visa renewal is subject to approval or rejection by the Italy Investor Visa Committee, so prepare your documents carefully.

Italian Citizenship Through the Italy Investor Visa Program

The Italy Investor Visa isn’t a fast or direct way to Italian citizenship based on Italy immigration law. However, by living in the country for ten consecutive years (five years through the Italy Investment Visa and five after obtaining permanent residency), you can petition for Italian citizenship by naturalization to become an Italian citizen and acquire an Italian passport.

Italy Tax Incentives for New Residents

Introduced in 2017, Italy’s non-dom tax regime is designed to attract foreign investors, high-net-worth individuals, and professionals to relocate to Italy. It offers a flat-tax system on foreign income, making it a key incentive for those considering the Italy Golden Visa tax benefits and the Italy Golden Visa.

To qualify for the special tax regime, applicants must not have been Italian tax residents for nine of the last ten years. Italian-sourced income is taxed normally (23%–43%), but foreign assets are exempt from wealth tax and reporting. The regime lasts up to 15 years and can extend to family members for €25,000 per person. However, large share sales in the first five years may be taxed at 26%.

If they have not been tax residents in Italy for at least nine years over the previous ten, residents may opt to pay an annual substitute tax of €100,000 on income earned abroad.

Other Considerations for Italy Golden Visa Applicants

Opening a Bank Account

To complete the Italy Golden Visa process, applicants must open an Italian bank account for investment transactions. This requires a passport, Italian tax code (Codice Fiscale), proof of residence, and financial stability. While some banks allow remote account setup, many require an in-person visit. Choosing a bank experienced with foreign investors can simplify the process.

Language and Integration

Though not mandatory, learning Italian helps with daily life, banking, and business. Basic language skills ease interactions with officials and locals, making integration smoother.

Building a Local Network

Hiring lawyers, tax advisors, and real estate experts ensures compliance with regulations and simplifies the visa process. A strong network helps applicants settle successfully in Italy.

Alternatives to Italy Golden Visa

As previously mentioned, the Italian Golden Visa program is a very appealing investment program, and many non-EU citizens choose to obtain the Italian Golden Visa. However, there are other European alternatives, including

  • The Portugal Golden Visa offers investment options like capital transfer, job creation, or funding scientific research. It provides residency in Portugal and access to the Schengen Area, with potential citizenship after five years.
  • The Spain Golden Visa can be obtained through real estate investment, business development, or government bonds. It allows residency in Spain, the right to live and work there, and the potential for citizenship after ten years. However, the program is set to end on April 3 2025.
  • The Greece Golden Visa requires real estate investment. It grants residency in Greece, visa-free access to the Schengen Area, and eligibility for citizenship after seven years.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique investment migration consultancy firm focused on finding the right residency or citizenship by investment program for individuals wishing to secure their future and become global citizens. With offices in Portugal, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Brazil, our multilingual team guides individuals and families from start to finish, providing expert advice considering freedom, mobility, taxation, and security.

  • We have helped hundreds of clients from 35+ countries in all the top residency by investment and citizenship by investment programs. With an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the area, we provide our clients with solid guidance. 
  • Our team has never had a case rejected. Our 100 percent approval rate sets us apart from our competitors and guarantees that you can expect a successful application.
  • Our transparent pricing covers all the processes from opening your bank account, document certification, and legal due diligence to investment and submission. As there is one fee for the entire process, you can be confident that you will not face any hidden costs later.
  • All data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server. You can be safe knowing that your personal data is treated with the utmost security.
  • Global Citizen Solutions provides an all-encompassing solution. Our support can continue even after you receive your passport. We offer additional services such as company incorporation, Trusts, and Foundations formation.
  • The BeGlobal Onboarding System® allows you to access the status of your application every step of the way, something that sets us apart from our competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Italy Golden Visa

What is the Italy Golden Visa?

The Italy Golden Visa is a residency by investment program that allows foreign nationals and their families to obtain Italian residency. It offers various investment options, including in businesses or startups. The visa grants access to Italy’s high-quality healthcare, education, and the ability to live and work in the country. After five years, applicants can apply for permanent residency and eventually citizenship.

How long is the Italian Investor Visa valid?

The initial Investor Visa for Italy is valid for two years from the date of issuance and is renewable for three additional years.

Is my family eligible for the Italy Investor Visa?

Yes, your family is eligible for the Italy Investor Visa. The visa allows the main applicant’s spouse, children under 18, and dependent adult children to apply as well. They can enjoy the same benefits of residency, including access to healthcare, education, and the ability to live and work in Italy.

Can I work with an Investor Visa?

Yes, there are no work restrictions for investors. Foreign citizens with an investor residence permit can carry out activities as both employees and self-employed professionals.

Can I obtain Italian citizenship?

Yes, you can obtain Italian citizenship after living in Italy for at least 10 years under the Italy Golden Visa program. After holding temporary residence for five years, you can apply for permanent residency, and after another five years, you may apply for citizenship, provided you meet the language and cultural integration requirements.

What are the other European Golden Visa programs?

Other popular European Golden Visa programs include Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Malta. Portugal offers residency through various investment routes, including business, job creation, and research, while Spain allows residency via real estate purchases. Greece and Malta also offer real estate investment options, with Malta providing citizenship after a set period.

Can you buy citizenship in Italy?

No, Italy does not offer a direct citizenship-by-investment program. However, through the Italy Investor Visa, individuals can obtain residency by qualifying investments, typically in business, government bonds, or research. After living in Italy for a period of time, applicants may become eligible for permanent residency and eventually citizenship through naturalization.

How much money must I invest to gain permanent residency in Italy?

To gain residency through the Italy Investor Visa, you can invest in one of the following options: at least €2 million in government bonds, €1 million in an Italian company, €500,000 in an Italian startup, or €250,000 in a qualifying innovative startup. After holding temporary residency for five years, you may apply for permanent residency.

Can I live in Italy if I buy property?

No, purchasing property alone does not grant you residency in Italy. To obtain residency through the Italy Investor Visa, you need to make a qualifying investment in sectors like business, research, or startups, with specific minimum investment amounts. Simply owning real estate does not make you eligible for the Golden Visa program.

How hard is it to get permanent residency in Italy?

The Italy Golden Visa program makes permanent residence easy to acquire in Italy. Provided he applicant maintains their initial investment and fulfills the residence permit requirements, they can apply for permanent residency after five years.

How long does it take to get residency in Italy?

The process to obtain residency in Italy through the Investor Visa typically takes around 2 to 3 months after the application submission. However, this timeline can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the specific documentation required. Once granted, you will initially receive temporary residency, which can later lead to permanent residency after five years of living in Italy.

Does the Italy Golden Visa allow real estate purchases?

No, the Italy Golden Visa program does not allow real estate purchases as a qualifying investment.