Italian Residence Permit by Investment

Italy is an attractive destination for both living and business activities. As a member of the European Union, it offers a strong economy, excellent education and job opportunities, a favorable climate, and a rich cultural heritage. Many people would like to move to Italy, but legal residency requires an official residence permit.
For individuals with sufficient financial resources, the Italian residence permit by investment is an optimal solution. Italy actively welcomes investors and offers favorable conditions for obtaining residency. Lawtter Solutions provides full support throughout the application process, assisting with document preparation, investment selection, and representation within the communication process with government authorities.

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Italian citizenship

Investor Visa for Italy Program

In 2017, Italy introduced an Investor Visa for Italy program to attract investments in strategic sectors, technological industries, and government bonds. Investors can obtain a residence permit by contributing to charitable foundations.

Who Can Apply for the Investor Visa?

The investor visa is available to the investor and their family members, provided they are included in the application, and the corresponding consular fees are paid.

Validity of the Residence Permit

The Investor Residence Permit is ideal for foreign nationals seeking temporary or permanent legal residency in Italy. Initially, it is granted for two years, with an option to extend for three additional years. If you plan to continue living in Italy and eventually obtain citizenship, the residence permit can be renewed accordingly.

Can Investments Be Reclaimed?

Yes, after five years, investors may reclaim their funds, except for investments made in charitable foundations. However, investment funds cannot be withdrawn while the residence permit is active. This means refunds are only available to foreigners who use the investor visa as a temporary residency solution in Italy.

Can You Immigrate to Italy by Purchasing Property?

Unfortunately, no. Italy does not grant a residence permit through real estate investment. However, the experts at Lawtter Solutions can help you identify alternative investment options to obtain legal residency. Contact us for a personalized consultation and expert assistance!

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Options

Investment Options for Residency in Italy

To obtain a residence permit in Italy, investors can choose from four available programs:

Startup Investment

The lowest entry threshold, requiring a minimum investment of €250,000. Investors can purchase shares in government-supported startups.

Business Investment

Requires a €500,000 investment in an existing business. Unlike the startup option, there is no official list of eligible companies, allowing investors to choose any active business in Italy.

Charitable Contribution

A minimum €1,000,000 donation to sectors such as education, science, culture, environmental protection, or immigration management qualifies for an investor visa.

Government Bonds

Requires an investment of €2,000,000 in Italian treasury bonds with minimum maturity of two years, offering both residency and a guaranteed return based on the prevailing interest rate at the time of application.

Funds must be invested within 90 days after receiving visa approval and entering Italy. Additionally, applicants must pay a consular visa fee of €116 and a residence permit card fee of €112 per family member.

Pathway to Italian Citizenship

If you have obtained a residence permit, you can eventually obtain Italian citizenship. First, you need to live in the country for 5 years to be eligible for permanent residence (PR) in Italy. Then, after another 5 years of living in Italy with PR, an immigrant can undergo naturalization and obtain a passport.

For a year to be counted, you must stay in Italy for at least 183 days per year, meaning you need to be a tax resident of the country.

Documents

Required Documents for the Residence Permit

Applicants must submit a set of documents, which generally includes:

Personal documents (ID and passport).
Health insurance policy.
Criminal record certificate.
Passport-size photos.
Nulla Osta certificate (pre-approval for the investor visa).
Proof of legal income.
Marriage certificate (if applicable).
Birth certificates of children (if applicable).
Education and professional qualification documents.
Proof of residence in Italy.
Bank statement with a minimum balance of €8,500.
Commitment to make the required investment.

Italian immigration authorities may request additional documents on a case-by-case basis.

Process

Residence Permit Application Process

The application process consists of four key steps:

Obtain a Nulla Osta Certificate – This document confirms eligibility for the Investor Visa for Italy. Nulla Osta holders must apply for the investor visa within six months. Processing takes up to 30 days from document submission.
Submit the Investor Visa Application – After receiving Nulla Osta, the applicant must travel to Italy and personally file their visa application, which is processed within 120 days.
Make the Investment – Upon visa approval, investors have 30 days to complete their investment in the chosen project or asset.
Apply for a Residence Permit – Once the investment is made, applicants can submit their residence permit application within two years.

Lawtter Solutions provides full legal support for obtaining an Italian residence permit by investment. We offer end-to-end services, including document preparation, investment selection, and representation during the communication with Italian authorities.

Viktoriia Pustovoit

Chief Sales Officer & Partner

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