Italy Golden Visa Programme
Italy Golden Visa Programme
The Italian Golden Visa Programme enables eligible foreign investors to obtain Italian residency through a qualifying investment in an innovative start-up or an Italian joint-stock company. The programme provides a straightforward route to European residency while offering investors access to Italy's dynamic economy, exceptional lifestyle, and strategic location within the European Union.
The initial residence permit is valid for two years and may be renewed for an additional three years, provided the qualifying investment is maintained. After five years, applicants may become eligible for permanent residency, while Italian citizenship may be available after ten years, subject to meeting residency and legal requirements.
"A straightforward European residency route with flexible investment options and no minimum stay requirement."
— Italy Golden VisaKey Benefits of Italy Residency
Italian residency offers a fast application process, Schengen mobility, family inclusion, lifestyle benefits, attractive tax opportunities, and a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship.
Fast & Straightforward Process
The Italian Golden Visa offers one of Europe's most efficient residency programmes, with applications typically processed within 2–3 months. Investor Visa approval is generally issued within 30 days, and the qualifying investment is completed only after residency approval.
Visa-Free Travel Across Europe
Italian residency allows visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area, including 29 European countries. Residence permit holders may stay in other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180 days without obtaining an additional visa.
No Language Test or Minimum Stay Requirement
Applicants are not required to pass a language test or meet a minimum physical stay requirement to obtain or maintain their residency under the programme.
Residency for the Whole Family
The programme allows eligible applicants to include their spouse, dependent children under 18, and financially dependent parents aged 65 years or above under one application.
Live, Work & Study in Italy
Italian residency provides the right to live, work, and study in Italy while enjoying one of Europe's highest standards of living, world-class healthcare, renowned universities, and a rich cultural heritage.
Attractive Tax Opportunities
Italy offers a Special Tax Regime for New Residents, allowing qualifying high-net-worth individuals to pay a substitute annual tax on foreign income instead of ordinary Italian income tax, subject to programme requirements.
Pathway to Permanent Residency & Citizenship
Eligible applicants may apply for permanent residency after five years and Italian citizenship after ten years, provided all residency and legal requirements are satisfied.
Who Can Apply?
The Italy Golden Visa Programme is available to eligible third-country nationals who meet the programme's legal and investment requirements.
Minimum Age
The main applicant must be at least 18 years of age.
Clean Criminal Record
Applicants must have a clean criminal record and demonstrate good character.
Good Health
Applicants must be in good health and provide the required medical documentation.
Complete the Investment
Applicants must complete the qualifying investment within three months of entering Italy.
Maintain the Investment
The qualifying investment must be maintained throughout the validity of the residence permit.
Eligible Family Members
Eligible family members may include the applicant's spouse, dependent children under 18 years of age, and financially dependent parents aged 65 years or above.
Investment Options & Costs
Applicants may choose one of the following government-approved investment routes.
Investment in an Innovative Start-up
Invest a minimum of €250,000 in an innovative Italian start-up registered with the Italian Chambers of Commerce.
Investment in an Italian Joint-Stock Company
Invest a minimum of €500,000 in shares of an operating Italian joint-stock company established in accordance with Italian legislation.
Additional Costs: In addition to the qualifying investment, applicants should budget for professional advisory fees, document legalisation and certification, courier charges, government administrative fees, and other related application expenses.
Your Residency Journey
SEG provides expert support throughout every stage of your Italy Golden Visa and residency application.
Initial Consultation
SEG evaluates your eligibility, investment objectives, and family circumstances before recommending the most suitable investment route.
Document Preparation
Our specialists assist with preparing, reviewing, and organising all required documents to ensure full compliance with the Italian Government's requirements.
Application Submission
Your Investor Visa application is submitted to the Italian Investor Visa Committee for assessment.
Nulla Osta Approval
Following a successful review, the Investor Visa Committee issues the Nulla Osta (Certificate of No Impediment). SEG then coordinates your appointment with the nearest Italian Embassy or Consulate to obtain your entry visa.
Travel to Italy
After receiving your Investor Visa, you travel to Italy and submit your residence permit application within eight working days of arrival.
Complete Your Investment
Following approval of your residency application, you complete the selected qualifying investment within the required timeframe and submit proof of investment to the authorities.
Residence Permit & Renewal
Your residence permit is issued for two years and may be renewed for an additional three years, provided the original investment is maintained. Eligible applicants may subsequently qualify for permanent residency and, later, Italian citizenship in accordance with Italian law.
Frequently Asked Questions
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