Investor visa in Italy: Preferential access to residency through strategic investments

Investor Visa for Italy: Preferential Access to Residency through Strategic Investments

The Investor Visa for Italy offers a valuable opportunity for non-EU citizens wishing to reside legally in Italy through a significant investment in the national economy. Regulated by Legislative Decree 286/1998, this program aims to attract foreign capital to promote growth in key sectors such as innovation, Italian enterprises, scientific research, and cultural heritage.

Who can apply?

Non-EU citizens who:
• Are of legal age
• Possess lawful financial resources transferable to Italy
• Have no criminal record
• Are willing to make one of the eligible investments specified by law

Eligible types of investment

Applicants must commit to one of the following investment types to qualify:

1. €2,000,000 in Italian government bonds
2. €500,000 in the capital of an Italian company or in a venture capital fund, active and legally registered in Italy
3. €250,000 in an innovative startup established and operating in Italy, registered in the special section of the Business Register
4. €1,000,000 as a philanthropic donation to public interest projects (education, culture, healthcare, scientific research, heritage preservation)

Note: The investment is not required before the visa is issued. A formal commitment is sufficient; the investment must be completed within 3 months of entering Italy.

Key benefits

• Fast-track process: priority handling with a response within 30 days for the clearance ("nulla osta")
• 1-year visa and initial 2-year residence permit, renewable for another 3 years
• Eligibility for EU long-term residence permit after 5 years of uninterrupted legal stay in Italy
• Family reunification: spouse and minor children may apply for dependent visas and residence permits
• Potential tax advantages: access to a special tax regime for new residents (flat tax on foreign income)
• Access to the Italian health and social system
• No language requirement or job creation obligation
• Possibility to renew the residence permit even with just 1 day of stay per year

Application process

1. Request for clearance ("nulla osta"):
   • Submitted online to the Investor Visa Committee with financial documents, investment plan, letter of commitment, and supporting documentation
   • Assessed within 30 days
2. Consular procedure:
   • After obtaining the "nulla osta", the applicant must apply for the visa at the Italian consulate in their home country
3. Entry into Italy and residence permit:
   • Upon arrival with the visa, the applicant must apply for the residence permit within 8 days at the local Police Headquarters, with priority channels available
   • The investment must be finalized within 3 months of entry and documented to the Investor Visa Committee

Conclusion

The Investor Visa represents a fast, secure, and strategic way to establish residence in Italy, whether for economic, family, or lifestyle reasons. It provides access not only to the Italian market but also to the Schengen Area, offering long-term planning and wealth-building opportunities

Your Way to Italy: our assistance

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The content of this article is intended to provide general guidance on the subject. It is necessary to seek specialist advice in relation to your specific situation.