Startup Visa for Italy: an opportunity for entrepreneurs looking towards Europe

Italy, known for its history, culture, and cuisine, has in recent years also been decisively focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship. If you are outside the European Union and have a business idea based on technology or with high innovative value, you may be interested to know there is a direct gateway to the European market: the Startup Visa.

This program was created to attract entrepreneurial talent from around the world. Its goal is clear: to make it easier for people with innovative ideas to access Italy, support them in developing their business within the country, and at the same time stimulate the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.

What is considered an “innovative startup” in Italy?

First and foremost, it is essential to understand what kind of business qualifies as an innovative startup. In Italy, an innovative startup is not simply a new company. It must meet specific criteria:

• Be less than five years old
• Not exceed €5 million in annual turnover
• Not distribute profits to shareholders
• Have its legal headquarters in Italy
• And most importantly, focus on technological innovation

In addition, it must meet at least one of the following conditions: allocate part of its budget to research and development, employ highly qualified personnel (such as PhDs or master’s graduates), or hold a patent or intellectual property right.

Who can apply for this visa?

This visa is intended for non-EU citizens who wish to move to Italy to launch an innovative startup.

To apply, you need to demonstrate:

• A solid business plan showing that the idea is not only innovative but also feasible
• At least €50,000 available to invest in the business
• Previous income (at least €8,500 in the past year), as proof of financial self-sufficiency
• Experience and expertise in the sector in which you plan to operate

A good idea alone is not enough—you must convince the authorities that you have the tools and resources to make it happen in Italy.

How to apply?

The process is quite structured, but not excessively bureaucratic—which is already a strong point.

First, the project is submitted to a technical committee of the Ministry of Economic Development. This committee will assess whether your startup meets the innovation criteria. If the evaluation is positive, you will receive a nulla osta, an official authorization required to apply for the visa.

With this document, you can approach the Italian consulate in your country to apply for the visa. Once in Italy, you must request a residence permit within 8 days of arrival. The visa is initially valid for one year, but it can be renewed if the business proves to be still active.

What are the benefits?

Besides the possibility of legally residing in Italy, this visa opens many doors and offers undeniable advantages. For example:

• The process is relatively fast compared to other types of entrepreneurial visas (initial evaluation takes about 30 days)
• You can access certified incubators and investor networks that can help you launch and grow your project
• There are tax incentives both for you and for those investing in your startup
• If your business becomes successful and you wish to remain in Italy, you may start the path toward permanent residency or even Italian citizenship

In summary

The Startup Visa is not just a visa or residence permit. It’s a national commitment to innovation and a direct invitation to those with vision, talent, and the drive to build a business in a European context—with access to international markets, technical talent, and an enviable quality of life.

If you feel your project has potential and you’re willing to move to Italy to pursue it, this program could be the first step of a great entrepreneurial adventure in one of the most fascinating countries in Europe.

Your Way to Italy: our assistance

Our team is available to provide guidance and assistance on the Startup Visa and, more generally, on immigration law. Contact us to book your first consultation! #Yourwaytoitaly

The content of this article is intended to provide general information on the topic. For specific questions or individual cases, it is recommended to seek specialized legal advice based on your personal situation.