A Guide to Italy Golden Visa Requirements 2025
Italy’s Investor Visa, introduced in 2017, was not designed as a quick solution. Its aim is to attract serious, long-term investors willing to invest in the country’s economy and civic life. For international families looking to establish a base in Europe, understanding the Italy Golden Visa requirements in 2025 is essential.
Eligibility: Who Qualifies in 2025
The program is open to non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals aged 18 and older. Applicants must:
- Have a clean criminal record, documented for all countries of residence over the past ten years.
- Show lawful origin of funds, with clear documentation.
- Maintain valid health insurance that covers Italy and the Schengen Area.
- Provide proof of sufficient financial resources for themselves and dependents.
There is no language test, no need for an employment record, and no full-time residence requirement.
Note: Since 2022, applications from citizens of Russia and Belarus (including dual nationals) are suspended according to EU measures.
For more details on the full visa process, see From First Call to Residency: What the Italy Investor Visa Process Really Looks Like.
Investment Routes in 2025
Applicants must choose one qualifying route and maintain the investment throughout their residency:
- €250,000 in an Italian innovative startup
- €500,000 in shares or equity of an established Italian company
- €1,000,000 donated to a project of public interest, such as culture, research, or education
- €2,000,000 in Italian government bonds
Property purchases are not included. Italy made this choice to ensure investment supports the productive economy instead of housing speculation.
To understand what you really get with a €500,000 investment, read Investing in Italy: What You Really Buy with €500K, An Ownership Stake, Not Just a Visa Stamp.
The Application Path
- Nulla Osta. Apply online to the Investor Visa Committee. Decisions are usually issued within 30 days.
- Visa application. Once granted, apply for the investor visa at your Italian consulate.
- Entry into Italy. Within 8 days, request the residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) at the Questura.
- Investment execution. Complete the chosen investment within three months of arrival and upload proof to the official portal.
The first permit is valid for 2 years. If the investment is maintained, it can be renewed for 3 more years, after a new Nulla Osta confirms continuity.
For an idea of the typical timeline for the process, see From Investment to Invitation: How Long Does It Take to Get an Italian Golden Visa?.
Family Inclusion
The Investor Visa can extend to:
- Spouse or partner
- Minor children
- Dependent adult children, including those with disabilities
- Dependent parents, if financially reliant
This structure allows families to secure residency together under one investment. To explore this aspect further, read Italy Golden Visa Family Planning: A Legacy That Lives Across Borders.
Italy’s Flat-Tax Regime for New Residents
Italy offers one of the most competitive tax systems in Europe for new residents. Eligible individuals may choose to pay a flat €200,000 per year on all foreign-sourced income, regardless of the amount. Family members can be included for an additional €25,000 each. This regime lasts up to 15 years and also removes Italian wealth and inheritance taxes on non-Italian assets.
For more details, see Understanding Italy’s Non-Dom Tax Regime: A Wealthy Investor’s Guide.
Common Questions and Misconceptions
Some investors worry that this program is “just another passport scheme.” In reality, Italy designed the Investor Visa with strict oversight and clear regulations. It is a state-backed pathway, not a workaround. The visa connects to real investment in the economy, not symbolic contributions.
Others ask, “Why not just buy property like in Spain or Greece?” The Italian government intentionally excluded real estate to avoid inflating the housing market. Instead, funds support companies, bonds, or public projects that promote long-term growth. For families wanting tangible ownership, equity in Italian firms provides access to some of the world’s most resilient brands.
Another concern is program stability. “What if Italy cancels like Portugal did?” Portugal closed its real estate route, but Italy’s program has remained stable since 2017. The focus on productive investment makes it less susceptible to policy changes. The program is still open and regulated in 2025.
Finally, applicants often inquire about timelines. Italy is known for bureaucracy, but the Nulla Osta review generally takes 30 days, and consular processing usually takes weeks or months, not years. While it may not happen instantly, it is far more predictable than some alternatives.
Cultural and Lifestyle Considerations
Beyond the financial and legal aspects, the Italy Golden Visa offers something less tangible but equally significant: a cultural foothold.
Italy channels investment into sectors like fashion, food, automotive, and luxury goods because these industries shape its global presence. For an investor, this means entering areas that offer both commercial stability and cultural identity.
For families, lifestyle factors often count as much as financial ones. Education is a strong attraction, with international schools available in Milan, Rome, and Florence. Healthcare, both public and private, ranks among the best in Europe. For those not ready to move full-time, the visa allows flexibility while offering the option for deeper roots later.
Residency here is not just about mobility within Europe. It is about becoming part of a country whose influence is based on both commerce and culture, offering a foundation for legacy and lifestyle.
Why This Matters
Residency programs across Europe have narrowed, especially those linked to property. Italy’s approach stands out for its focus on the real economy, clear processes, and consistency. For investors, the program provides flexibility. It creates a straightforward path to residency that can, with time and commitment, lead to citizenship.
If you are reviewing the Italy Golden Visa requirements in 2025, the essentials are simple. You need lawful funds, a clean record, and a qualifying investment. In return, Italy offers a long-term base in one of the world’s most culturally and economically significant countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the minimum investment amounts?
Applicants may choose from €250K in a startup, €500K in an established company, €1M in public projects, or €2M in government bonds.
How long does the process take?
The Nulla Osta review usually takes 30 days. The full visa process depends on consular schedules, but entry and residence permits can typically be completed within a few months.
Do I need to live in Italy full-time?
No. The visa itself has no minimum stay requirement. For EU long-term residency after 5 years or citizenship after 10 years, applicants must live in Italy during that time.
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Spouses, children, and dependent parents may all be included without additional investment.
Does the visa lead to citizenship?
Yes, indirectly. After 5 years you may qualify for long-term EU residency. After 10 years of lawful residence in Italy, you can request citizenship through naturalization.
