Learn the steps to apply for Italian citizenship by investment, including choosing a qualifying investment, submitting documents, and obtaining residency.
Applying for Italian citizenship by investment involves a series of steps through the Investor Visa program, which provides residency in Italy and a pathway to citizenship through naturalization. Here is a detailed guide on the steps to apply:
1. Choose a Qualifying Investment:
The first step is selecting an eligible investment option under the Investor Visa program. Your options include:
- €250,000 investment in an innovative startup.
- €500,000 investment in an Italian company.
- €2 million investment in Italian government bonds.
- €1 million donation to a public-interest project, such as education, research, or cultural preservation.
Ensure you have the required funds legally obtained and readily available.
2. Submit a Pre-Application Online:
- Create an Account:
Register on the Ministry of Economic Development’s Investor Visa portal. - Complete the Application Form:
Provide details about your chosen investment and personal information. - Upload Supporting Documents:
Include proof of funds, a detailed investment plan, and other required documents, such as your passport and criminal record certificate.
3. Obtain the Nulla Osta:
- Application Review:
Your application will be reviewed by the Committee for the Investor Visa, which evaluates the legitimacy and feasibility of your investment. - Approval:
If approved, you will receive a Nulla Osta (certificate of no impediment), valid for 6 months. This document allows you to proceed with the visa application.
4. Apply for the Investor Visa:
- Visit the Italian Consulate:
Submit your visa application at the Italian consulate in your country of residence. Provide your Nulla Osta, a valid passport, and any additional documents required by the consulate. - Visa Approval:
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive the Investor Visa, granting you entry to Italy.
5. Enter Italy and Activate Residency:
- Arrival in Italy:
Use your Investor Visa to enter Italy. - Apply for a Residence Permit:
Within 8 days of arrival, apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) at the local Questura (police headquarters). This permit formalizes your residency in Italy.
6. Maintain Investment and Residency:
- Keep Your Investment Active:
Your investment must remain valid throughout your residency period. - Renew Residence Permit:
Ensure your residence permit is renewed as required to maintain continuous legal residency.
7. Pathway to Citizenship by Naturalization:
While the Investor Visa does not directly grant citizenship, it provides a pathway to naturalization after fulfilling residency requirements:
- Residency Requirement:
Reside in Italy for 10 years (or 4 years for EU citizens). - Meet Additional Criteria:
Demonstrate B1-level Italian language proficiency, financial stability, and a clean criminal record. - Apply for Citizenship:
Submit your application for citizenship through naturalization once you meet all requirements.
8. Conclusion:
The steps to apply for Italian citizenship by investment include choosing a qualifying investment, obtaining a Nulla Osta, securing an Investor Visa, and activating your residency. By maintaining your investment and fulfilling residency requirements, you can eventually apply for citizenship through naturalization.