Q. What is the Italian Investor Visa?
A. The Italian Investor Visa, sometimes also called the “Italian Golden Visa”, is for non-EU citizens who plan to make investments in Italy. However, some people will make the investment just as a way to qualify for this visa and legally move to Italy. The investor visa is designed to attract foreign capital and promote Italy’s economic growth.
Main requirements to obtain the Italian Investor Visa
To qualify for the Italian investor visa, applicants must meet one of the following criteria (maintaining the chosen option for a minimum of 2 years):
- Invest in Italian government bonds: at least €2 million.
- Invest in an Italian corporation at least €500,000.
- Make a philanthropic donation: at least €1 million to a public-interest project in areas such as culture, education, environmental protection, or immigration management.
- Invest in an innovative Start-up at least €250,000.
Duration of the Investor Visa and Residence Permit
- Investor Visa: The visa is initially granted for 2 years, enabling the applicant to enter Italy to complete the investment and begin their stay.
- Residence Permit for Investors: Upon arrival in Italy, the visa holder must apply for the residence permit within 8 days, as with any other type of visa. The permit is valid for 2 years and can be renewed for an additional 3 years, provided the investment remains active and meets the necessary requirements.
After 5 years of residency, upon meeting some additional requirements, the applicant may apply for an EU long-term residency permit.
The process to obtain the Investor Visa consists of three main steps:
- Nulla Osta:
The applicant must first submit an online application to the Investor Visa Committee to obtain a Nulla Osta. Approval typically takes approximately 6 weeks. - Visa Application:
Once the Nulla Osta is granted, the applicant must apply for the visa at the Italian consulate in their home or country of residency. - Residence Permit Application (Permesso di Soggiorno):
After entering Italy with the visa, the applicant must apply for a residency permit within 8 business days.
Documents required to apply for the Investor Visa
The required documentation varies depending on the type of investment. However, it generally includes:
- A valid passport;
- Nulla Osta;
- Proof of availability of funds and their legitimate origin (e.g., bank statements, tax returns);
- A detailed investment or philanthropic project plan;
- A declaration of commitment to complete the investment within 3 months of entering Italy;
- Criminal background check from each country where the investor has resided for more than twelve consecutive months during the last 10 years;
- Health insurance valid in Italy.
Penalties for Changing Course
The visa and residency permit are directly linked to the declared investment. If the investment is not completed or is interrupted before the required term, the permit may be revoked.
Timeline for the Investment
The funds must be invested after the application has been approved. Investing the funds is also a requirement to obtain the residency permit.
You can discuss your individual circumstances and get personalized advice about how to move forward by booking a consultation with our immigration team.
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