Startup visa for Italy and residence permit: application through a certified incubator

In recent years, Italy has introduced a specific system to attract foreign entrepreneurs interested in developing innovative projects within its territory. The so-called “Startup Visa” is part of this strategy, offering non-EU citizens a regulated pathway to enter the country and launch a high-tech business. Among the various access options, the one involving a certified incubator represents one of the most solid and structured approaches.

In this model, the incubator does not merely provide support, but becomes a key player from the very early stages of the process. These are officially recognized organizations with experience in selecting and developing innovative startups, offering services such as mentoring, access to investment networks, operational spaces, and strategic assistance. Their involvement implies a preliminary evaluation of the business project, which must demonstrate a clear innovative character, scalability, and economic sustainability.

The process begins with the submission of a detailed business plan, in which the entrepreneur outlines the idea, target market, and growth prospects. In this context, it is also essential to demonstrate the availability of adequate financial resources, generally intended to cover initial costs and ensure the startup’s operational continuity. When a certified incubator formally decides to support the project, it issues a letter of commitment that significantly strengthens the application.

This endorsement allows access to a more streamlined procedure: the interministerial technical committee responsible for evaluating applications for the issuance of the clearance (nulla osta) reviews the proposal, also taking into account the incubator’s opinion. In the case of a positive evaluation, the nulla osta is issued—an official authorization that allows the applicant to proceed with the visa application.

The next step takes place at the Italian consulate in the entrepreneur’s country of residence. Here, a more formal verification is carried out, concerning the applicant’s identity, availability of financial means, and the conditions for entry into Italian territory. Once the national visa is obtained—falling within the category of self-employment visas subject to the quotas established by the “decreto flussi”—the entrepreneur can move to Italy and begin their business activity.

Upon arrival, it is necessary to apply for a residence permit for self-employment, strictly linked to the approved project. This residence permit initially has a limited duration but can be renewed over time, provided that the innovative startup proves to be effectively operational and continues to meet the required criteria. In some cases, the system also allows the conversion of the residence permit into other types, facilitating a more stable stay in the country.

A distinctive feature of this pathway is its openness to entrepreneurial teams: multiple founders can participate in the same project, each applying for a self-employment visa, provided that the financial requirements are met and each member’s role is clearly defined. Moreover, the procedure is designed to be relatively fast compared to other migration channels, precisely thanks to the involvement of qualified entities such as incubators.

Choosing to go through a certified incubator therefore offers a dual advantage: on the one hand, it increases the project’s credibility in the eyes of the authorities; on the other, it provides the entrepreneur with a structured environment in which to concretely develop their idea. This balance between technical evaluation and institutional oversight makes the Italian program a competitive tool within the European landscape of innovation policies.

Ultimately, the Startup Visa obtained through a certified incubator is not merely a means to secure a residence permit, but a genuine entrepreneurial support pathway that facilitates entry into the Italian market and increases the chances of success for the initiative.

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The content of this article is intended to provide general information on the topic. For doubts or specific cases, it is advisable to seek specialized legal advice tailored to your particular situation.

Article written by Alessia Ajelli, Managing Associate of LCA Studio Legale, Italian lawyer specialized on Italian immigration and citizenship law, and Paolo Grassi, Trainee of LCA Studio Legale.