Who is eligible for the Italy Golden Visa?

Non-EU citizens over 18 with a clean criminal record and funds for significant investments in Italy are eligible for the Italy Golden Visa.

The Italy Golden Visa, or Investor Visa, is open to non-EU citizens who meet specific eligibility criteria, including age, financial capacity, and a clean criminal background. Designed to attract foreign investors, this visa requires applicants to make a substantial economic contribution to Italy, benefiting the country’s economy. Here’s a closer look at the eligibility requirements for the Italy Golden Visa, covering age, nationality, investment capacity, and other essential qualifications.

1. Nationality and Residency Requirements:

   • Non-EU and Non-Schengen Citizens Only: The Italy Golden Visa is specifically designed for non-EU and non-Schengen Area citizens. Applicants must not hold citizenship from an EU or Schengen country to qualify. Citizens of EU member states are ineligible, as they already have freedom of movement within Italy and the EU.
   • Residency Outside the EU/Schengen Area: Applicants should also reside outside the EU or Schengen Area when applying. If residing temporarily within the Schengen Zone, the applicant must submit the application from outside Italy.

2. Minimum Age Requirement:

   • Applicants Must Be Over 18: All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to qualify for the Golden Visa. This requirement applies to both primary applicants and any family members included in the application. Only adults with the legal capacity to enter into binding investment agreements may apply.

3. Investment Capacity and Eligible Investments:

   • Minimum Investment Commitment: To qualify for the Golden Visa, applicants must be willing and able to commit a significant financial investment in Italy. The minimum investment amount varies based on the chosen investment category, with options including:
     • €2 million in Italian government bonds,
     • €500,000 in an Italian limited company,
     • €250,000 in an Italian innovative startup,
     • €1 million donation to a philanthropic project in Italy focused on public interest.
   • Proof of Funds: Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to make the investment. This typically involves providing documentation showing the source and availability of funds, ensuring the applicant has the financial stability needed to fulfill the visa’s requirements.

4. Clean Criminal Record:

   • Background Check Requirement: A clean criminal record is mandatory for all Italy Golden Visa applicants. This includes providing an official criminal background certificate from their country of residence or origin. Italy’s immigration authorities use this to confirm that the applicant has no history of serious crimes or any record that could pose a risk to public safety.

5. Additional Requirements for Family Members:

   • Family Inclusion in the Application: Immediate family members, such as spouses and dependent children, can be included in the primary applicant’s Golden Visa application. Each family member must meet certain basic eligibility criteria, including providing relevant identification and background documents.
   • Financial Provision for Dependents: The primary applicant must demonstrate financial means sufficient to support their dependents, proving that they can maintain a stable and comfortable lifestyle for all family members included in the visa.

Conclusion:

Eligibility for the Italy Golden Visa requires non-EU citizenship, being over 18, a clean criminal record, and the financial capacity to make a substantial investment in Italy. By meeting these criteria, applicants and their families can enjoy residency benefits, Schengen travel, and potential paths to long-term residency in Italy.