Apply for the Italy Investor Visa
Want ultimate flexibility in your European retirement dreams? The Italy Investor Visa lets you secure residency by investing in the Italian economy. No presence or taxes required. Spend your time and money how and where you want.
Why Apply for the Italy Investor Visa?
Low Minimum Investment
Compared to other EU residency by investment visas, Italy offers a low €250,000 entry point. You don’t even have to invest until after your visa is approved.
Investment Routes
Choose to invest in certified startups, private companies, government bonds, or even make a donation to qualify for an Italian residence permit.
No Presence Requirement
You only need to visit Italy once per year to maintain your residency. No 183-day stay and therefore, no tax residency unless you want it.
Fast Track to Residency
Get a two-year visa upfront. Renew for three more years, then apply for permanent residency at year five.
Post-Approval Investment
Unlike most golden visa programs in the EU, Italy lets you apply first, then invest – a process that reduces risk.
Ready to Explore Your Options in Italy?
Who is the Italy Investor Visa for?
Wealthy Diversifiers
If you’re done with rising US taxes and want optionality abroad, the Italy Investor Visa can be your hedge and an excellent Plan B.
Entrepreneurs & Executives
You want EU access, but you’re not ready to retire. This lets you buy time, flexibility, and freedom on your way to Italian citizenship.
Equity Investors
Looking for geographic diversification and EU exposure? This visa offers legal, safe asset migration with potential investment upside.
Investment Options
Pick one of four single entity paths:
- €250,000 in an innovative Italian startup
- €500,000 in an Italian business
- €1 million donation to a public-interest cause
- €2 million in Italian government bonds
Accommodation
You must rent or purchase housing in your name, valid for at least a year. You’ll need a lease or deed to prove accommodations.
Proof of Funds
Prove the legal source and sufficient quantity of assets to fund your chosen investment.
Health Insurance
Applicants must purchase Schengen Zone-valid coverage of at least €30,000 a year per person.
Clean Record
Submit a clean criminal background check from your current country of residence.
Valid Passport
You’ll need at least two years and three months left on your passport.
Nationality & Age
You must be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen and at least 18 years old.
Request Your Italy Visa Infosheet
The Italy Investor Visa Process
Step 1
Book a Consult
The Freedom Files will assess your Investor Visa eligibility, walk you through similar options, and answer your questions. That way, you’re convicted on your next steps toward a European relocation.
Step 2
Prepare Documents
We prepare your application, translate and legalize your paperwork, gather all necessary proof, and request your Nulla Osta security clearance. Remember that the Italy Investor Visa does not require investment until after your residency application is approved.
Step 3
Secure Housing
You’ll need to prove accommodation in Italy with a signed 12-month lease or home deed, even if you don’t plan to live there full-time.
Step 4
Submit Application
The Freedom Files submits your complete residency application to the Italian consulate in your home country. Processing can take up to 90 days but typically takes 1-2 months.
Step 5
Enter Italy & Apply for Residence Permit
Once approved, you have two years of visa validity, meaning you must enter the country within that period. Within eight days of arrival, apply for your residence permit at the local police precinct and receive your Codice Fiscale (your mandatory Italian tax ID).
Step 6
Complete Investment
Upon visiting Italy, you must complete your investment or donation within three months.
Step 7
Register Your Address
To claim residency in Italy, you must register with the Anagrafe, the vital records office. For access to the 7% flat retirement tax regime, choose to reside in a small town in Southern Italy. But remember that the Investor Visa does not require physical presence in Italy and therefore, tax residency.
Step 8
Renew Visa & Maintain Citizenship Eligibility
Your permit is valid for two years. Renew for three more after that by maintaining your investment (for a total of five years) and visiting once annually.
After five years of continuous residency (i.e. 270+ days per year), you are eligible to apply for permanent residency. After ten years, for Italian citizenship.
FAQs About Italy Investor Visa
What Does the Italy Investor Visa Cost to Apply?
Government fees total around ~€500 for the Nulla Osta, visa application, residence permit, and other processing fees. The Freedom Files’ service tiers range from Basic to White Glove, but all include a one-time fee and full support for eligibility check, application prep, residency registration, and appointments in Italy. No hidden costs or hourly billing.
When Can I Get Italian Citizenship Through the Italy Investor Visa?
Ten years. After two years, renew your residence permit for three more. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency, provided that you have lived in Italy for at least 270 days per year. After ten years, you’re eligible for full Italian citizenship and the rights to live, work, study, and travel freely across the entire European Union.Â
Will I Owe Taxes in Italy on My Global Income Under the Italy Investor Visa?
No, unless you choose to become a tax resident and live in Italy for more than 183 days a year. If you do want to establish tax residency to access the 7% or €200,000 flat tax regimes or just the Italian quality of life, we can help you plan for taxes properly and legally.Â
How Long Does the Italy Investor Visa Take to Process?
2-4 months, on average. The full Italy Investor Visa timeline typically includes 30 days for the Nulla Osta (security clearance) and up to 90 days for processing. Freedom Files manages the entire process for you, from preparing the application to government liaising to biometrics and residence permit appointments once approved.Â
Can My Family Come With Me on the Italy Investor Visa?
Yes. Your spouse and children are eligible to apply for family reunification residency permits under your visa. In most cases, your single qualifying investment will cover everyone. Unlike some other residency programs, there’s no need to double your investment. We’ll guide you through dependent documentation and help coordinate the entire family’s relocation.