What are the steps to apply for Italian citizenship by investment?

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.