Visas
      Back to home
      1. Movingto Knowledge Base
      2. Italy
      3. Visas

      Can I apply for Italian citizenship by investment if I live outside of Italy?

      Yes, you can apply for Italian residency through the Investor Visa program while living abroad, which may lead to citizenship after 10 years.

      Yes, you can apply for Italian citizenship by investment even if you live outside of Italy. While Italian citizenship is not granted directly through investment, the Investor Visa program offers a pathway to residency, which can lead to citizenship by naturalization after meeting residency requirements. Here’s how the process works:

      1. Eligibility for the Investor Visa While Living Abroad:
      The Investor Visa program is specifically designed to allow individuals residing outside of Italy to obtain legal residency by making qualifying investments in the country. To apply, you must:

      • Make a Qualifying Investment:
        Choose one of the approved investment options, such as €250,000 in a startup, €500,000 in an Italian company, €2 million in government bonds, or a €1 million donation to a public-interest project.

      • Demonstrate Financial Eligibility:
        Provide proof that you have the required funds legally obtained and readily available for the investment.

      2. No Immediate Residency Requirement for Application:
      You do not need to live in Italy to apply for the Investor Visa. The application process can be completed while residing in your current country. Once approved, the visa grants you the right to enter and reside in Italy.

      3. Steps to Apply for the Investor Visa While Living Abroad:

      • Step 1: Pre-Application Submission:
        Submit your investment proposal and proof of funds online through the Ministry of Economic Development’s Investor Visa portal.

      • Step 2: Approval and Nulla Osta:
        Upon approval, you will receive a Nulla Osta (certificate of no impediment), valid for 6 months.

      • Step 3: Visa Application at the Consulate:
        Apply for the Investor Visa at the Italian consulate in your country of residence. Include your Nulla Osta and supporting documents.

      • Step 4: Enter Italy and Activate Residency:
        Once your visa is approved, you can enter Italy and apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) to activate your residency.

      4. Pathway to Citizenship by Naturalization:
      While the Investor Visa does not grant direct citizenship, it allows you to establish residency, which is a prerequisite for citizenship by naturalization.

      • Residency Requirement:
        You must reside in Italy continuously for 10 years to apply for citizenship by naturalization. EU citizens may apply after 4 years of residency.

      • Maintain Investment:
        Your investment must remain active during the residency period to retain your legal status.

      5. Benefits of the Investor Visa for Non-Residents:

      • No Initial Relocation Required:
        You can begin the application process and make your investment while living abroad.

      • Family Inclusion:
        Your spouse and dependent children can also obtain residency through the program.

      • Path to Citizenship:
        The program allows you to work toward citizenship while maintaining your residency in Italy.

      6. Conclusion:
      You can apply for Italian residency through the Investor Visa program while living outside Italy. This visa provides a pathway to citizenship by naturalization after residing in Italy for 10 years. By making a qualifying investment and maintaining legal residency, you can eventually apply for Italian citizenship.