Italy Golden Visa Investment Options Explained: Ultimate Guide

The Italy Golden Visa is a popular choice for investors looking to gain residency in Europe. This program provides several ways for high-net-worth individuals to obtain a residence permit in Italy by investments. 

In this guide, Igor Buglo, Head of the Maltese office, MBA, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, covers the facts of the Italy Golden Visa program and explains its advantages.

Italian Golden Visa program details

The Italian Golden Visa allows non-EU investors to live in Italy by making qualifying investments. The visa grants residency to the investor and their immediate family members, with the potential for obtaining permanent residence permit and citizenship after 10 years. Applicants can choose from a range of investments, making it a flexible option.

Requirements to qualify for the Italy Golden Visa include making a significant investment of at least €250,000 in the country and proving the financial means to support yourself and your family. Italy’s visa options attract investors by offering residency through economic contributions.

Italy Golden Visa does not impose strict residency requirements on investors. You are not obligated to live in Italy full-time, which can be a great advantage for those who travel frequently or have business interests in other countries. However, spending more time in Italy may benefit you when applying for permanent residency or citizenship in the future.

If you want to know the differences between the Italy Golden Visa and Golden Visas of other countries, follow the link to the Golden Visas comparison guide.

11 Italian Golden Visa benefits

1. Residency for the whole family. You can include your spouse, dependent children and parents without age limits in your application.

2. Free travel within the Schengen Area. This visa allows free movement across the 29 Schengen countries.

3. No stay requirement. Unlike other visa programs, the Italian Golden Visa doesn’t require you to live in Italy full-time.

4. Pathway to permanent residency. After five years, you can apply for permanent residence permit.

5. Citizenship eligibility. After 10 years of legal residency, investors can apply for Italian citizenship.

6. Access to Italy’s high-quality healthcare. Enjoy Italy’s world-renowned healthcare system as a resident.

7. Education opportunities. Your children gain access to Italy’s excellent educational institutions.

8. Tax incentives. There are certain tax benefits available to new residents under Italy’s “Non-Dom” program.

9. Investment flexibility. You can choose from different investment options to qualify for the visa.

10. Italian lifestyle. Experience Italy’s rich cultural heritage, food, and vibrant cities.

11. Business expansion in Europe. Italy’s visa opens doors to establishing and expanding business operations within Europe.

In addition to these benefits, Italy’s reputation as one of the world’s leading economies offers a solid foundation for investors who are looking to build long-term financial security. The country is part of the European Union, offering strong economic stability. Its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe also allows easy access to major markets in the region.

Investment options

Flexibility in investment options makes this program accessible to a range of investors. There are various investment options available for those interested in the Italy Golden Visa. Each option allows investors to select the one that best aligns with their financial goals and interests:

1. Government bonds. Investing €2 million in Italian government bonds is one way to qualify. These bonds are government-backed and regarded as a secure investment.
2. Company shares. A €500,000 investment in an Italian company’s shares or stocks. This option is ideal for those looking to invest directly in the Italian economy.
3. Innovative startups. Investors contribute €250,000 to an Italian startup company. This investment must support a certified innovative startup, officially registered with the Italian government.
4. Charitable donation. A philanthropic donation of €1 million to a public-interest project, such as those in education, culture, or healthcare, is also eligible.

Whether you’re looking for stable, long-term investments such as government bonds or prefer the potential for high returns through equity in an innovative startup, Italy’s Golden Visa program provides a pathway that suits your investment strategy.

List of documents

When applying for the Italy Golden Visa, applicants must provide the following documents:

1. Valid passport. A passport with at least two years of validity.
2. Proof of investment. Documentation that shows the full amount of the chosen investment.
3. Proof of financial stability. Bank statements showing sufficient funds to support yourself and your family.
4. Health insurance. Proof of valid health insurance for the entire duration of your stay in Italy.Background checks, including criminal record certificates from your country of residence and any countries where you have lived in the past 10 years.
5. Application forms. Completed forms required by the Italian government, including a request for residency.

It is essential to make sure all documents are accurate and current before submitting your application. Even a minor error in the paperwork could lead to delays or rejection. Working with an experienced immigration advisor can help you navigate this process efficiently.

Process of obtaining Italy Golden Visa

The entire process takes four months and more, depending on how quickly you gather your documents and complete the necessary steps. Following approval, the residence permit can be renewed, and after five years, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.

The application process for the Italy Golden Visa is straightforward, but requires careful attention to detail:

1. Choose an investment. Start by selecting the qualifying investment that fits your financial and personal preferences.
2. Prepare the documents. Gather the necessary documents, including proof of investment, passport, and background checks.
3. Submit the application online. The application must be submitted through the Italian Ministry of Economic Development’s online platform.
4. Attend an interview. In some cases, you may need to attend an interview at an Italian consulate or embassy.
5. Receive the visa. Once approved, you will receive a visa that allows you to enter Italy and complete your investment.
6. Finalise the investment. After entering Italy, you must finalise the investment within three months.

Apply for a residence permit. Once the investment is confirmed, you can apply for a residence permit, valid for two years.

Conclusion

The Italy Golden Visa offers a unique opportunity for investors looking to secure residency in a European country. With multiple investment options and attractive advantages, it’s an ideal choice for high-net-worth individuals.