Moving to Italy and live without working is possibile thanks to the elective residence visa and permit.
Information updated as of 2026
Non-EU citizens who want to move to Italy and who have sufficient economic resources to mantain themselves without working can apply for an Elective Residence Visa and permit.
By proving the availability of an accommodation in Italy (such as an owned or leased property) and the ownership of a passive, steady and consistent income - such as deriving from pensions, annuities, rents, ownership of shares and participations etc.. - non-EU citizens may apply for an elective residence visa at the Italian Embassy or Consulate in their foreign country of residence and then for a residence permit in Italy of 1 or 2 years.
The residence permit can be renewed as long as the conditions for its issuance are kept, bearing in mind that in no case the holder will be allowed to carry out any kind of work activity.
- collection of the supporting documents among which those to prove the availability of a steady and passive income, the availability of an accommodation in Italy to elect as place of residence and of an insurance policy to cover the risks of stay in Italy
- visa application at the Italian Embassy or Consulate in the foreign country of residence of the applicant
- entrance in Italy with the elective residence visa on the passport
- within 8 days from the entrance, submission of the request of the residence permit via postal kit
- fingerprinting at the local Police station
Contact us to receive full assistance for each and every step of the process to obtain an elective residence visa and permit!
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Non-EU citizens who want to invest in Italy may apply for an Investor Visa and residence permit
Different options for family and study visas and more are available - let's find them out!
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