Launched in 2017, the Italy Golden Visa, or "Investor Visa for Italy," permits non-EU/EEA and non-Swiss nationals to secure a residence permit through an investment in the Italian economy. This visa is valid for two years and can be renewed for an additional three years. After five years from the initial application, holders can apply for permanent residency. Italy has been part of the European Union since 1958 and joined the Schengen Area in 1997.
The Investor Visa for Italy offers a range of benefits for investors, such as investors are only required to invest after their residency application is approved, there is no language test requirement, there is no minimum stay requirement, investors can live and work in Italy, holders of the visa can travel visa-free within the Schengen area, and after holding the permanent residency for five years investors are eligible for citizenship.
Benefits of an Italian golden visa
Visa-free travel to Europe’s Schengen Area
Residence in a country with a rich culture, attractive industries, and major global cities
No permanent stay in Italy required
Access to excellent medical care and education facilities
Citizenship may be available after 10 years of residence (under special conditions)
Investment Types & Costs
To obtain a residence permit through the Italian Investor Visa, applicants must choose one of the following investment options:
Minimum Investment of €500,000 in Italian Shares (reduced to €250,000 for investments in innovative start-ups)
Minimum Donation of €1 million for Public Interest Projects in Italy, covering areas such as culture, education, ecology, immigration management, research and development, arts, and heritage. This is a non-refundable contribution.
Minimum Investment of €2 million in Italian Government Bonds
Elective Residence Program. A further qualifying option, the Elective Residence Program is suitable for individuals who can prove their stable annual income at a certain quantity from abroad. The holder of an elective residence permit (permesso di soggiorno per residenza elettiva) is not allowed to work.
The investment must be maintained for the duration of the visa. A spouse, children, and dependent parents of the main applicant can also apply for a visa without any additional investment.
Procedures for the Italy Golden Visa
The Italy Golden Visa is initially granted for two years and can be renewed for an additional three years, as long as the investment is maintained. The visa application process typically takes 90 to 120 days from the submission date.
Investors must make their investment within three months of entering Italy. To qualify under the Investor Visa Program, applicants are required to purchase or rent residential real estate in Italy after receiving approval.
For those applying under the Elective Residence Program, proof of stable income and ownership of residential real estate is required following approval. Permanent residency can be obtained after five years, provided the investor has relocated to Italy.
Italy Residence by Investment Program: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Italy Residence by Investment Program?
The Italy Residence by Investment Program allows individuals and their families to obtain residence by making significant economic contributions to the country.
What investment options are available?
Investment options include the Investor Visa Program, which covers investments in government bonds, shares, or donations to public projects, as well as the Elective Residence Program, which requires proof of stable income from abroad.
What are the benefits of obtaining Italian residence through investment?
Benefits include the ability to live, work, and study in Italy, visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, and access to Italy’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
What is the minimum investment required?
The minimum investment starts at €250,000 for investments in innovative startups.
How long does it take to process an application?
Processing times can vary. Please contact us for specific information regarding your situation.
Can family members be included in the application?
Yes, the main applicant can include their spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents.
What are the residence requirements?
There are no specific residence or physical presence requirements.
What documents are required for the application?
Required documents include a valid passport, proof of investment or contribution, a clean criminal record, and other supporting documentation.
Is it possible to obtain Italian citizenship through this program?
Yes, investors may be eligible to apply for Italian citizenship after maintaining residence for ten years.
What is the application process?
Applicants must select a qualifying investment, submit the application with the required documents, and undergo a due diligence process.
Contact us for more information and special promotion at contact@solunahk.com
Sincerely,
Giulio Cinisi
Managing Partner
SOLUNA HK LIMITED
Hong Kong | Dubai | Zurich