Italy Elective Residence Visa Requirements: How to Qualify in 2025

Italy is a dream destination for many, including retirees and financially independent individuals looking for a long-term home. For those in this position, understanding the Italy Elective Residence Visa requirements is the first step toward enjoying residency here without needing to work.

Non-EU citizens must meet strict eligibility criteria, with financial stability and independence being one of the most important factors. Without the right documentation and proof of passive income, applications can face delays or rejection.

This guide will explore the key 2025 Italy Elective Residence Visa requirements, covering financial criteria and the documents you’ll need to apply. Ready to move forward? Use the form below to book a free call and get personalized advice on your eligibility.

Elective Residence Visa Italy Income Requirements

The most critical factor in securing Italy’s Elective Residence Visa is meeting financial requirements. Unlike work visas, this permit is strictly for those who can support themselves without employment. If your income doesn’t meet the minimum threshold, doesn’t come from the right sources or isn’t properly documented, your application is likely to be denied.

Applicants must demonstrate a stable passive income of at least €31,000 per year for a single person, with higher amounts required for couples or families. This income must be a proven, regular, and substantial stream that the applicant receives and originates from steady and reliable sources. Some of these income sources include:

• Pension payments
• Investment revenues or dividends
• Long-term rental income from properties
• Trust funds 
• Guaranteed long-term/lifetime annuities

What Doesn’t Count?

One-time lump sums, temporary freelance earnings, or business revenue that requires active involvement generally do not meet the criteria. The government wants proof of long-term financial sustainability that is independent of work.

Income that depends on voluntary withdrawal of capital (e.g., accessing funds from an investment account or personal savings at will) is not sufficient on its own, unless it is part of a structured disbursement plan that guarantees continuity and predictability over time.

Proving Your Financial Eligibility

Applicants must provide official, verifiable documents to prove income consistency. You must submit the following documents, depending on the avenue through which you will apply:

• Bank statements (typically 6–12 months)
• Investment or pension statements
• Rental agreements with payment history
• Tax returns or certified financial reports

The key is to show that your income is stable, legal, and ongoing. If your financial situation is complex or needs structuring, check out our Elective Residence Visa service page, where you can learn more about the eligibility requirements and how Lexidy can support you!

Italy Elective Residence Visa Housing Requirements

Aside from passive income, another key requirement for Italy’s Elective Residence Visa is proving that you have secured long-term accommodation before applying. This shows Italian authorities that you are genuinely planning to live in Italy and not just visiting.

What Type of Housing is Acceptable?

You can meet the housing requirement in one of two ways:

• Property ownership – If you own a home in Italy, you must provide the property deed and official registration.
• Long-term rental agreement – A signed lease contract of at least 12 months from the prospective entry date to Italy is required, with clear terms stating your residence in Italy.

When Must You Secure Housing?

You must arrange housing before submitting your visa application. The consulate will request official documentation, such as:

• A lease contract in your name (as a tenant) registered with the Tax Agency
• Property ownership records if you purchased a home

Since short-term rentals or temporary stays (like Airbnb bookings) are not accepted, applicants must plan ahead. 

Wondering where to live in Italy? Our How to Retire in Italy guide highlights the best destinations for retirees and includes everything you need to know about making the move.

Health Insurance: Private, Comprehensive, and Essential

One of the most overlooked requirements for Italy’s Elective Residence Visa is health insurance. While Italy has an excellent public healthcare system, visa holders are not automatically eligible for it. This means securing private health insurance is mandatory before applying.

Public vs. Private Healthcare: What’s the Difference?

• Public Healthcare (SSN)
  • Available only to Italian residents who qualify, such as employees, self-employed workers, and EU citizens. Elective Residence Visa holders cannot rely on this before they are officially registered as residents at the local Town Hall.
  • Even after residency registration is completed, enrollment in the NHS for ERv holders will be considered voluntary, subject to the payment of an annual fee calculated on the applicant’s economic situation and a minimum €2,000 per calendar year (Jan-Dec, regardless of when the enrollment occurs). 
• Private Health Insurance
  • Essential for your visa – and for peace of mind. It must cover medical expenses during your stay in Italy, and you can customize it to your needs, as long as it meets the minimum visa requirements.

What Does “Comprehensive” Coverage Mean?

Your insurance must meet strict requirements, including:

• Minimum coverage of €30,000 per year
• Coverage for hospitalization, emergency care, and general medical expenses
• Valid for at least one year from the time you arrive
• Valid for the whole Schengen Area, including Vatican City and the country of San Marino.
• No restrictions on pre-existing conditions

Recommended Insurance Providers

Many international insurers offer policies that meet Italy’s visa standards, such as:

• Allianz Care
• Cigna Global
• Axa Schengen
• Foyer Global Health

Choosing the wrong insurance policy can lead to visa rejection or unnecessary expenses. To avoid this, Lexidy’s immigration team helps applicants review and select compliant health insurance before submission and introduces them to trusted partners that can offer the right coverage for the best price.

Key Elective Residence Visa Application Documents

Applying for Italy’s Elective Residence Visa requires a complete and correctly formatted document package. Missing or incorrectly prepared documents are one of the most common reasons for visa delays or rejections. Below is an overview of what Consulates typically require for a strong application.

Full List of Required Documents

• Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least three months beyond the year of visa validity.
• National Visa Application Form – Available from the Italian consulate’s website.
• Proof of Passive Income – E.g. Bank statements, pension records, rental contracts, or investment earnings, proving at least €31,000/year per person.
• Proof of Solid financial position – Tax Returns, bank account statements, investment portfolios to demonstrate economic and financial solidity.
• Proof of Residence in the Consulate’s jurisdiction – State ID, Driver’s license or recent utility bills.
• Proof of Accommodation in Italy – A rental contract (12+ months from the entry date) or property deed in Italy.
• Comprehensive Health Insurance – Private policy covering at least €30,000 in medical expenses and meeting the relevant requirements.
• Passport-Size Photos – Recent and in line with Schengen visa photo guidelines.
• Family certificates – E.g. marriage certificate for spouses – to sponsor eligible family members’ applications.

For the visa process, typically no legalisation/translation is necessary. However, for the process in Italy, certificates must be recently obtained and be ready for international use (e.g., Apostille + Certified translation).

Where to Apply & Processing Time

You must submit the application in person at the Italian consulate in your country of residence, depending on each Diplomatic mission’s territorial jurisdiction. Processing can take anywhere from up to 90 days, depending on the consulate’s workload. Efficient Consulates take a few weeks in concrete terms.

To ensure your application is flawless, Lexidy’s team assists with document and requirements verification before submission. Contact us through the form below for a free consultation.

Tax & Residency Considerations

Moving to Italy on an Elective Residence Visa is likely to trigger a change in your tax residency status, because of your immigration requirements for a prolonged stay and residency registration in Italy.

When Are You Considered a Tax Resident in Italy?

By law, a person is considered to be resident in Italy for income tax purposes if, for the greater part of the fiscal year (i.e., for more than 183 days or 184 in a leap year):

1. is physically present on Italian territory; OR
2. has ‘residence’ in Italy (habitual abode) as defined by the Italian Civil Code as the place where individuals habitually reside; OR
3. or a ‘domicile’ in Italy (center of vital interests) defined as where the individuals’ personal and family relations are primarily conducted (therefore, personal and family ties take precedence over economic/business interests); OR
4. is registered as a resident in the Records of the Italian Resident Population (“Anagrafe della popolazione residente”) at the local Town Hall. As of 2024, however, this is a presumption of tax residence, not an absolute test, and can be overcome if the facts and circumstances allow.

Tax residency applies for the entire tax year. In Italy, the personal tax year runs from January 1 to December 31.

Key Tax Implications for Elective Residents

This has major implications for retirees and financially independent individuals, especially if you have income from multiple sources or countries. The good news is that Italy has double taxation treaties with many nations. This may help prevent being taxed twice on the same income. 

In some cases, there may also be access to favorable tax regimes. But treatment of pensions, dividends, rental income, or capital gains depends on the tax treaty with your home country, and these can vary widely.

In addition, tax residents may be subject to wealth taxes and required to report foreign assets annually. These obligations can be complex, especially if you hold accounts, real estate, or investments abroad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for the Italian Elective Residence Visa

The Italian Elective Residence Visa is designed for a specific profile. It’s common for well-qualified applicants to get rejected due to avoidable errors. Here are the most common pitfalls:

1. Delaying Housing Arrangements

You must show proof of long-term accommodation before applying. Many applicants wait too long to secure a rental contract or try to use short-term stays, which rarely meet the requirements. Aim for a 12-month lease or, better yet, a property deed in your name.

2. Using Travel Insurance Instead of Full Coverage

Standard travel insurance won’t meet visa requirements. Italy expects private, comprehensive health coverage with no major exclusions. Typically, you must prove that you meet the minimum coverage of €30,000+. If in doubt, get a lawyer to review your policy. Fill out the form below to schedule your free consultation.

3. Failing to Prove Consistent Passive Income

A one-time bank deposit or savings isn’t enough. Authorities want to see stable, recurring income, such as from pensions, investments, or rental properties. Falling below the passive income threshold (around €31,000 per year for individuals) will result in denial, but it is only one of the requirements. In addition, the authority will assess the applicant’s comprehensive financial solidity.

4. Applying Without Full Understanding of Tax Implications

Many applicants overlook the fact that becoming a resident may also mean becoming a tax resident. Not understanding your reporting or payment obligations can cause legal issues later.

Avoiding these mistakes often comes down to careful planning and legal insight. A qualified immigration lawyer can ensure your documents, income, insurance, and housing all meet Italy’s strict requirements the first time around.

Start Your Italian Chapter the Right Way

The Italy Elective Residence Visa offers an incredible opportunity to enjoy life in one of the world’s most culturally rich countries. But this dream can quickly unravel if the visa requirements are not fully understood and properly documented.

Your financial eligibility is the cornerstone of the entire application. Without consistent passive income and an overall solid financial position, a long-term place to live, and compliant health insurance, you risk visa delays or denial.

That’s why getting legal support from the start can make all the difference. At Lexidy, our team helps you understand the requirements, review your documentation, and submit a strong application that’s built for success.

Whether you’re ready to move forward or just exploring your options, you’ll find everything you need on our Elective Residence Visa service page — or simply fill out the form below to speak with our team.