Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa)
Non-EU investors making a qualifying investment in Italian companies, startups, bonds or philanthropy.
The Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa) is a Italian business, talent & investor visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€116 visa + ~€100+ permit; investment €250k-€2m) and processing time (Nulla osta ~30 days; full process ~3-6 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa) is for
Non-EU investors making a qualifying investment in Italian companies, startups, bonds or philanthropy.
Renewable; counts toward the EU long-term residence permit after 5 years if the investment is maintained.
Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa) - eligibility criteria
- €250k in an innovative startup, or
- €500k in an Italian limited company, or
- €2m in Italian government bonds, or
- €1m philanthropic donation to a public-interest project
- Proof of lawful source of funds
Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa) (Italy) is ~€116 visa + ~€100+ permit; investment €250k-€2m, with an indicative processing time of Nulla osta ~30 days; full process ~3-6 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Italy Visa Portal.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online nulla osta to the Investor Committee; visa at a consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | 2 years, renewable for 3 more if investment maintained |
| Work rights | Permitted; investor may manage and work in Italy |
| Study rights | Permitted |
| Government fee | ~€116 visa + ~€100+ permit; investment €250k-€2m |
| Processing time | Nulla osta ~30 days; full process ~3-6 months |
| Route to PR | Renewable; counts toward the EU long-term residence permit after 5 years if the investment is maintained. |
Pathway & next steps
Renewable; counts toward the EU long-term residence permit after 5 years if the investment is maintained.
Many applicants also compare Startup Visa · Italia Startup Visa, Lavoro Autonomo · Self-Employment Visa (lavoro autonomo), Elective Residence · Elective Residence Visa (Residenza Elettiva). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Italian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa) pitfalls we fix
Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa) cost?
The Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa) government fee is ~€116 visa + ~€100+ permit; investment €250k-€2m. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Italy Visa Portal before applying.
How long does the Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa) take to process?
Indicative processing time is Nulla osta ~30 days; full process ~3-6 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa) lead to permanent residence?
Renewable; counts toward the EU long-term residence permit after 5 years if the investment is maintained.
Can I work on the Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa)?
Work rights: Permitted; investor may manage and work in Italy.
Who can apply for the Investor Visa for Italy (Golden Visa)?
Non-EU investors making a qualifying investment in Italian companies, startups, bonds or philanthropy.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Italy government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Italy Visa Portal - official Italy immigration authority