What Is the Italian Golden Visa?
The Italian Golden Visa, formally called the Investor Visa for Italy, allows non-EU nationals to obtain a renewable residence permit through an approved investment. Introduced in 2017, it continues to operate in 2025 under the oversight of the Investor Visa for Italy Committee. It is designed for investors who want a long-term, stable presence in Italy for themselves and their families. For a deeper breakdown of requirements, see Italy Golden Visa Requirements 2025: Complete Checklist.
Qualifying Investments in 2025
Applicants may choose one of the following routes. Amounts refer to minimums and must be supported by compliant documentation and verified source of funds. Full guidance on each route is available in Italy Golden Visa Investment Options: Which Path to Choose?.
- €250,000 in an Italian innovative start-up registered as such in Italy.
- €500,000 in shares or quotas of an Italian limited company that is active and compliant.
- €1,000,000 philanthropic donation supporting public interest projects in culture, education, science, or immigration management.
- €2,000,000 in Italian government bonds held in custody for the permit term.
Real estate investments are not part of the program. For related cost analysis, review Italy Golden Visa Price: Investment Minimums & Hidden Costs.
Application Process
- Submit a pre-assessment and online application through the Investor Visa for Italy portal, including identification and source-of-funds documents. At this stage, no funds are transferred.
- The committee issues a Nulla Osta (certificate of no impediment) if the proposal is approved.
- Apply for the investor visa at the relevant Italian consulate.
- Enter Italy, complete the investment within the required timeframe, and apply for the residence permit.
- Maintain the investment to renew the permit beyond the initial period. For step-by-step timing, read Italy Golden Visa Processing Time: How Long Does It Take?.
Validity, Renewal, and Timelines
- Initial residence permit validity: two years.
- Renewal period: three additional years if all conditions are met.
- Expected total timeline: several months from submission to residence permit, depending on documentation and consular processing.
Rights and Benefits
- Residence in Italy for the investor and eligible family members.
- Schengen mobility for short stays, subject to Schengen rules.
- Option to elect Italy’s new resident flat tax regime separately, if appropriate. For a detailed explanation, visit Italy Golden Visa Tax Benefits: €200K Flat Tax Explained (2025).
- Eligibility for long-term residence after five years and naturalisation by residence after ten years, subject to legal requirements.
- No specific minimum physical presence required to maintain the investor residence permit, although presence rules apply to long-term residence and citizenship.
Family Inclusion
Spouses, minor children, dependent adult children, and in limited cases dependent parents can join the main applicant under family unity provisions. For full detail, see Italy Golden Visa Family Inclusion: Complete Guide. Documentation must confirm dependency where relevant.
Compliance and Preparation
- Gather complete source-of-funds and source-of-wealth documentation early.
- Confirm that the investee company or start-up qualifies and is registered.
- Coordinate visa, legal, and tax planning before requesting the Nulla Osta.
- Keep the investment active for the entire permit period and review renewal conditions in advance. For costs and preparation strategy, see Italy Golden Visa Cost: Complete Financial Breakdown 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Minimum Qualifying Investments in 2025?
Four routes are available: €250,000 in an innovative start-up, €500,000 in an Italian limited company, €1,000,000 philanthropic donation, or €2,000,000 in Italian government bonds.
How Long Is the Residence Permit Valid and Can It Be Renewed?
The initial permit is valid for two years and can be renewed for an additional three years if the investment and all requirements are maintained.
When Must the Investment Be Completed?
After entering Italy on the investor visa and applying for the residence permit, complete the investment within the period indicated by the authorities.
Is There a Minimum Stay to Keep the Permit?
There is no defined minimum presence requirement to maintain the investor residence permit. Different rules apply to long-term residence and citizenship.
Which Family Members Can Be Included?
Spouse, minor children, dependent adult children, and dependent parents may be included, subject to proof of dependency when applicable.
Is Real Estate Eligible?
No. Real estate purchases are not a qualifying route under Italy’s investor visa.
How Long to Long-Term Residence and Citizenship?
Long-term residence may be available after five years of legal residence. Citizenship by residence typically requires ten years, subject to eligibility and integration standards.
How Does the Flat Tax for New Residents Interact with the Visa?
Italy’s elective flat tax regime for new residents is separate from the investor visa. It applies to foreign-source income if elected with professional advice. Terms and thresholds may change, so obtain current guidance before electing.