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What is the Italian Golden Visa?
It is a residence Visa that’s granted by the Italian Ministry of Enterprise and Made in Italy to non-EU citizens. They must invest in strategic assets that will have benefits to the future development of Italy.
The applicant must invest at least:
- €250,000 in an Italy-based innovative startup (~$USD 270,000)
- €500,000 in an Italian company (~$USD540,000)
- donate €1,000,000 to a Italian philanthropic cause (~$USD 1,078,000) or
- invest €2,000,000 (~$USD2,156,000) in government bonds.
Unlike other countries, Italy’s Golden Visa does not offer the option to invest in Real Estate to get this Visa. This means you cannot get this visa by buying a property in Italy.
However, if you are interested in this option and are open to investinginvest in other countries, check here the Golden Visa for Greece, where you will be able to get this visa by buying a property.
Who is Eligible for a Golden Visa in Italy?
You are eligible for an Italian Golden Visa if you are a non-EU citizen, and make a single investment into one of the options mentioned before.
How to obtain a Golden Visa?
Two sections make up the application for a Golden visa for Italy:
- The online form for requesting a Nulla Osta (certificate of no obstruction)
- The procedure for requesting a visa at an Italian consulate or embassy.
Once you get the visa, you can go to Italy and apply for a residence permit.
requesting the Nulla Osta
The following is the application procedure for an Italy Investor Visa Nulla Osta:
- Start the online application by filling out the necessary paperwork on the official website.
- Send in the necessary paperwork.
- The same webpage is where you must electronically scan and attach the documents.
- Before sending the Final Declaration, download it and digitally sign it.
- Your documents will be examined by the secretariat of the investor visa committee. If everything is in order, you’ll get the go-ahead, and the Inversor Visa Committee will assess your application after that. If anything is lacking, you will need to provide further supporting documentation.
- Once all the required paperwork has been submitted, your application will be reviewed by the Investor Visa Committee. Members of the Committee come from several ministries and government organizations.
- Within 30 days, a decision will be made.
Applying for the Italian Golden Visa
You have six months from the time the Italy Golden Visa Committee makes its choice to submit an application for a visa at the Italian Embassy or Consulate in your area.
- The Nulla Osta and hard copies of all the documentation you submitted are required. You can also be asked to submit more paperwork.
- You have two years from the time the Italian Embassy or Consulate issues you the visa to enter Italy.
Process of Getting the Golden Visa
1. Choose the investment you will make
The journey starts with selecting the best investment for you. This can be a €250,000 investment in a local startup or buying €2,000,000 of Italian government bonds. We recommend opening a bank account in Italy to make this process easier. Lexidy works with Italian banks that are compliant with the Committee requirements, and our lawyers can work together with you to open a bank account in Italy.
2. Gather the paperwork
For this step, you need to collect all of the important documents. This includes bank records, criminal record background checks and a detailed professional resume, among others. All these documents must be either in Italian or English, and if not, translated into Italian and formally legalized. The translation must be performed by a sworn translator.
3. Investment Visa application
You can file your application online. After around 30 days, if approved, you’ll be invited to download the “Nulla Osta”, the document allowing you to apply for the Visa. This document must be shown to the Italian Consulate when applying.
Shortly after landing in Italy, you must visit the “Questura” (State Police), and request the “Permesso di Soggiorno” (Residence Permit).
What documents do I need after I land in Italy?
After the issuance of the Visa and starting from when you land in Italy, you will have three months to perform the chosen investment.
Innovative startup investment:
Proof that the funds have been transferred to the startup from the bank,. and the updated bylaws of the company registered at the Chamber of Commerce with a clear indication of your status as a shareholder.
Investment in an Italian company:
Proof of the transfer of funds to the company from the bank. If the company is a listed company (stocks), you will need the Certificate of Titles provided by the broker/bank. If the company is a private company, you will need the updated Bylaws with yourself appearing in the shareholders’ list.
Investment in a philanthropic cause:
It depends on the type of organization but typically you will need a bank statement showing proof of payment and a letter from the philanthropic cause confirming your donation.
Buy Italian government bonds:
You must show proof of the bond purchase from the broker or financial institution.
To apply for an Investment Visa, the applicant must provide all of this documentation before it is submitted to immigration authorities.
What’s the timeline for the Visa?
Applying from your country residence:
- Understand what’s needed: one day
- Collect and prepare the documents: one to four
- File the request: one day
- Decision for the request: 30 days
- If approved, download the “Nulla Osta”: one day
- Schedule Consulate Visa Appointment: appointments are preferencial by law and usually can happen in the next day. Receive Visa to enter Italy: either right after the appointment or between 15 to 30 days if it needs to be shipped back.
Contact our lawyers now to get a free consultation ono your case and help you with all the necessary steps to get the Italian Golden Visa!
What taxes do I need to pay?
As a Golden visa holder in Italy, you may be subject to certain taxes depending on your activities, residency status, and income. Here’s an overview of the main taxes you may need to pay:
1. Income Tax (IRPEF – Imposta sul Reddito delle Persone Fisiche):
- Residents: If you stay in Italy for more than 183 days per year, you are considered a tax resident and must pay income tax on your worldwide income.
- Non-residents: If you are not a tax resident, you are only taxed on income earned in Italy.
- The income tax rates are progressive, ranging from 23% to 43%, depending on your income level.
2. Social Security Contributions:
- If you work in Italy, both you and your employer must contribute to social security. These contributions cover health insurance, pensions, and other social benefits.
- Employer contributions range from 30% to 35% of your salary, while employee contributions are around 9-10%.
3. VAT (IVA – Imposta sul Valore Aggiunto):
- If you run a business or sell goods and services in Italy, you may be required to charge Value Added Tax (VAT). The standard VAT rate is 22%, with reduced rates for certain goods and services.
4. Capital Gains Tax:
- Capital gains from the sale of property, investments, or other assets are subject to tax. For residents, gains are taxed at progressive income tax rates, while non-residents are taxed at 26%.
5. Property Tax (IMU – Imposta Municipale Unica):
- Property owners must pay an annual property tax based on the value of the property. Rates vary depending on the municipality but generally range from 0.2% to 0.76% of the property’s assessed value.
6. Wealth Tax on Foreign Assets (IVAFE/IVIE):
- If you are a resident and own foreign financial assets or property, you may need to pay an annual wealth tax on these assets:
- IVAFE: A tax on foreign financial assets at 0.2% of their value.
- IVIE: A tax on foreign real estate, typically at 0.76% of the property value.
7. Inheritance and Gift Tax:
- If you receive an inheritance or a gift, you may be subject to inheritance or gift tax. The rate depends on the relationship to the deceased or donor and ranges from 4% to 8%.
8. Regional and Municipal Taxes:
- In addition to national taxes, you may also be subject to regional and municipal taxes, which are typically around 1% to 3% of your income.
Taxation in Italy can be complex, especially for foreigners, so it’s advisable to consult a tax professional or lawyer to ensure compliance with Italian tax laws.
The application process for a Golden visa in Italy can be complex and time-consuming, and a lawyer can help ensure that all necessary documents and requirements are met in a timely and efficient manner. If you are planning to get the Italian Golden Visa, contact our expert lawyers today and we will help you with a initial free consultation of your case!
How can a lawyer help me with the Golden Visa?
A lawyer can be a valuable asset in assisting you with the Golden Visa (Investor Visa) in Italy by:
Assessing eligibility: A lawyer will review your investment plan, which can include options such as €250,000 in an Italian innovative startup, €500,000 in either a private or listed existing Italian company, €2 million in government bonds, or €1 million in philanthropic projects, ensuring it meets the visa’s requirements.
Document preparation: They will provide clear information on what the necessary documents are and guide you through the process of gathering and obtaining them.
Application submission: A lawyer ensures that your Golden Visa application is accurately completed and submitted to the appropriate Italian authorities, minimising errors and delays.
Managing the investment process: Lawyers can guide you through the legal process of making your investment, ensuring compliance with Italian laws and regulations.
Appealing rejections: If your visa application is denied, a lawyer can assist in appealing the decision and addressing the issues that led to the rejection.
Ongoing legal support: They can assist with renewing your residence permit, maintaining your investment, and advising on transitioning to permanent residency or Italian citizenship.
If you’d like, we can discuss your specific situation in more detail to help you through the Golden Visa process in Italy.
Our team of experienced lawyers is ready to assist you and guide you through the entire application process. Let us help you make your dream of living and working in Italy a reality.
Life
Work
Golden Visa (Investment Visa) in Italy with Giancarlo Osteto
“The Investment Visa is for those who want to reside in Italy by making a big investment.”
- This Visa allows you either to work in Italy or not
- Not possible to invest in Real Estate with this VIsa, unlike other countries like Spain or Greece
- Tax benefits
Quality Life for You and Your Family
Why Italy?
Obtaining a Golden visa in Italy offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it opens an opportunity to live in one of Europe’s most captivating countries, with its vibrant cities, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Secondly, the visa enables access to Italy’s thriving digital and tech ecosystem, fostering networking opportunities and professional growth. Lastly, you will immerse yourself in the warmth of Italian hospitality, savour its delectable cuisine, and explore its diverse regions while maintaining a flexible work-life balance.
Cultural immersion
Experience the rich Italian culture.
Location
Explore most of Europe without visa restrictions.
Stable economy
Italy has a stable and growing economy
Delicious cuisine
Taste world-renowned Italian food and wine.
Affordable living
Cost of living is lower compared to other European countries.
Healthcare access
Access to high-quality healthcare facilities and services.
Skilled workforce
Italy has a highly skilled and multilingual workforce.
Travel Opportunities
Explore diverse regions within Italy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Duration of an Italy Golden Visa?
The validity of the Italy Golden Visa is two years. You may enter Italy during this time with the visa and obtain a residence permit.
The Investor Visa Residence Permit is likewise good for two years, beginning on the day of entrance. If you submit your request at least 60 days before it expires, you can extend it for an additional three years.
Can the Italy Golden Visa Lead to Italian Citizenship?
Yes, you can apply for Italian citizenship through naturalization if you’ve lived in Italy for at least ten consecutive and uninterrupted years. You would have the freedom to liveroam (and work) anywhere in the EU as an Italian citizen, as well as the ability to vote and to pass your citizenship on to your offspring.
Do I have to actually live in Italy in order to maintain the permit?
To maintain a Golden visa in Italy, you are not required to spend any minimum amount of time in Italy, but rather only the time necessary to process the initial request and eventual renewals. To gain permanent residency and citizenship, though, stricter requirements apply.
Can I get a Golden Visa by buying Real Estate in Italy?
No, Italy does not have a Visa program for those who buy Real Estate in the territory. Proof of temporary compliant accommodation will be needed to apply for the Visa.
Our Team
For us, Lexidy is a way of life and what excites us the most is to be able to deliver the happiness and satisfaction of a successful immigration process. We want to help you achieve your goals and dreams, whether it’s residence in Italy or simply an investment.
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