Investing in Italy: How to get an Investor Visa

Italy is a popular tourist destination and an attractive location for investors looking to expand their portfolios.

For foreign investors interested in establishing a presence in Italy, the Investor Visa program offers an excellent opportunity to obtain residency and potentially citizenship.

There are a few requirements and processes individuals must complete to obtain an Investor Visa in Italy. Having an experienced law firm available can help foreign investors obtain their visa and start life in Italy.

What is an Investor Visa?

The Investor Visa, also known as the “Italy Golden Visa” or “Investor Residence Visa,” is an exclusive visa program designed to attract foreign investors to Italy.

This program is a testament to Italy’s recognition of the value and contribution that foreign investors bring to the country. It allows non-EU citizens who invest significantly in Italy to obtain a renewable residence permit, which can lead to permanent residency and citizenship.

Types of Investor Visas

There are several types of Investor Visas available in Italy, each tailored to different types of investments:

Investment in Innovative Startups: This visa is for investors who wish to invest in innovative startups in Italy. To qualify, investors must make a minimum investment of €250,000 in an Italian startup officially recognized as innovative.
Investment in Italian Companies: This visa is for investors who wish to invest in Italian companies. To qualify, investors must make a minimum investment of €500,000 in an Italian company.
Investment in Government Bonds: This visa is for investors who wish to invest in Italian government bonds. To qualify, investors must make a minimum investment of €2 million.
Investment in Real Estate: This visa is for investors who wish to invest in Italian real estate. To qualify, investors must make a minimum investment of €500,000.

Requirements for obtaining an Investor Visa

To obtain an Investor Visa in Italy, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Proof of Investment: Applicants must provide evidence of their investment in Italy, such as bank statements, investment certificates, or contracts.
Proof of Funds: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves and their family during their stay in Italy.
Background Check: Applicants must undergo a background check to ensure they do not have a criminal record.
Health Insurance: Applicants must have health insurance coverage for themselves and their family members.
Residence in Italy: Applicants must have a permanent residence in Italy.
Language Requirement: While the Investor Visa does not have a specific language requirement, applicants may be required to demonstrate basic knowledge of the Italian language.

In addition to gathering the necessary documents, it’s crucial to accurately translate any documents not originally in Italian. Using legal translation services from professional providers like Tomedes ensures the precision and certification needed for these translations.

The application process

The application process for the Investor Visa in Italy typically involves the following steps:

Submit Application: Applicants must submit their visa application to the Italian consulate or embassy in their home country.
Provide Documents: Applicants must provide all necessary documents to support their application, including proof of investment, proof of funds, and health insurance.
Attend Interview: In some cases, applicants may be required to attend an interview at the Italian consulate or embassy.
Wait for Approval: Applicants must wait for their visa approval once the application is submitted. The processing time for an Investor Visa can vary depending on the type of investment and other factors.
Obtain Residence Permit: Once the visa is approved, applicants can travel to Italy and obtain their residence permit.

Benefits of the investor visa

The Investor Visa offers several benefits for foreign investors looking to establish a presence in Italy:

Residency: The Investor Visa allows investors to obtain a renewable residence permit in Italy, allowing them to live and work in the country.
Potential for Citizenship: The residence permit obtained through the Investor Visa can lead to permanent residency and citizenship in Italy, provided certain conditions are met.
Access to the Schengen Area: The residence permit allows investors to travel freely within the Schengen Area, which includes most of the European Union.
Investment Opportunities: Italy offers a wide range of investment opportunities, including real estate, startups, and government bonds.

Investing in Italy allows foreign investors to establish a presence in one of Europe’s most beautiful and culturally rich countries. Individuals seeking to invest in Italy should consult with an experienced attorney to gain valuable insight into the various visas available. Working with a trusted law firm in Milan, like ILF, can help potential investors learn the intricacies of the visas system.

With its Investor Visa program, Italy makes it easier for investors to obtain residency and, potentially, citizenship in the country. By meeting the requirements and following the application process, investors can take advantage of the many benefits Italy offers and make their investment dreams a reality.