Can I sell my investment and still keep the Italy Golden Visa?

Selling your investment under the Italy Golden Visa program may lead to the loss of your residency permit, as maintaining the investment is required.

No, you cannot sell your investment and still retain the Italy Golden Visa. Maintaining the qualifying investment is a fundamental requirement of the program, and failing to meet this condition can result in the revocation of your residency permit. Below are detailed insights into the implications and considerations of selling your investment.

Key Requirements of the Golden Visa:

  1. Investment Maintenance:

    • The investment made during the application process must remain active throughout the validity period of your residency permit.
    • Eligible investments include government bonds, corporate shares, innovative startups, or philanthropic donations.
  2. Validity of Residency Permit:

    • Your residency permit is contingent upon the ongoing fulfillment of the program's requirements, including maintaining the investment.

Consequences of Selling the Investment:

  1. Loss of Residency:

    • Selling or withdrawing the investment before the permit expires will likely lead to the cancellation of your residency status.
    • Italian authorities require evidence of continued compliance to renew your permit.
  2. Legal Obligations:

    • Not informing the relevant authorities about changes in your investment status can result in additional legal or administrative consequences.
  3. Impact on Family Members:

    • If dependents are included in your application, their residency permits are also linked to the primary applicant's compliance with investment requirements. Selling the investment may affect their status as well.

Exceptions and Alternatives:

  1. Substituting the Investment:

    • In certain cases, it may be possible to replace the initial investment with another qualifying investment.
    • Approval from Italian authorities is required, and the new investment must meet all program criteria.
  2. Consult Legal Advisors:

    • Before making any changes to your investment, consult legal and immigration experts to explore potential alternatives and ensure compliance.

Tips for Maintaining Compliance:

  1. Plan for Long-Term Investment:

    • Choose an investment option that aligns with your long-term financial goals and is sustainable for the duration of your residency.
  2. Monitor Investment Performance:

    • Regularly review the status and compliance of your investment to address potential issues early.
  3. Communicate with Authorities:

    • Notify Italian authorities promptly if any changes to your investment are required, and seek approval before making adjustments.

Conclusion:

Maintaining your investment is a non-negotiable requirement for retaining the Italy Golden Visa. Selling or withdrawing your investment without a suitable replacement approved by authorities will lead to the loss of your residency status. To avoid complications, ensure long-term planning, seek professional guidance, and adhere to program regulations. By doing so, you can preserve your residency rights and continue enjoying the benefits of the Golden Visa program.