You must maintain your investment in Italy throughout the residency period, typically 10 years, to qualify for citizenship by naturalization.
To qualify for Italian citizenship through the Investor Visa pathway, you must maintain your investment throughout your residency period. The length of time depends on the naturalization process, which generally requires 10 years of legal residency in Italy. Here’s a detailed explanation:
1. Residency Requirement for Citizenship by Naturalization:
Italian citizenship by investment is not granted directly. Instead, the Investor Visa program offers residency, which can lead to citizenship through naturalization. You must reside in Italy for 10 years to apply for citizenship, and your investment must remain active during this period.
- Standard Residency Duration:
10 years of continuous, legal residency in Italy is required for most applicants. - Reduced Duration for EU Citizens:
If you are an EU citizen, you may qualify for citizenship after 4 years of residency.
2. Commitment to Maintain Investment:
Maintaining your investment is a key condition of the Investor Visa program. The specifics depend on the type of investment:
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Innovative Startups:
If you invest €250,000 in a startup, you must keep your financial contribution active and valid during your residency. -
Italian Companies:
For investments in established companies (€500,000), you must retain ownership of your shares or equity for the entire residency period. -
Government Bonds:
A €2 million investment in Italian government bonds must be held until the end of the agreed term to ensure compliance with program requirements. -
Philanthropic Contributions:
A €1 million donation to a public-interest project is a one-time contribution and does not require ongoing maintenance, but you must fulfill the terms of the donation.
3. Consequences of Withdrawing Investment:
If you withdraw or discontinue your investment before completing the required residency period, your Investor Visa and residence permit may be revoked. This will interrupt your pathway to citizenship.
4. Pathway to Citizenship After Investment Maintenance:
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Meet Residency Criteria:
Maintain continuous legal residency in Italy for 10 years (or 4 years for EU citizens). -
Fulfill Other Requirements:
Meet additional criteria for citizenship, including:- Language Proficiency: B1-level Italian language certification.
- Clean Criminal Record: Submit police clearance certificates.
- Financial Stability: Demonstrate income or financial resources to support yourself during residency.
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Apply for Citizenship:
Once you meet all requirements, submit your application for Italian citizenship through naturalization.
5. Benefits of Maintaining Investment:
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Retain Residency Status:
Maintaining your investment ensures your residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) remains valid. -
Family Inclusion:
Your spouse and dependent children also retain residency rights if your investment remains active. -
Path to Citizenship:
Fulfilling the investment and residency requirements allows you to apply for Italian citizenship by naturalization.
6. Conclusion:
To qualify for Italian citizenship through the Investor Visa program, you must maintain your investment throughout the residency period, typically 10 years. Ensuring the continuity of your investment is essential to retaining your residency status and successfully applying for citizenship by naturalization.