If you are interested in learning more about Italy’s Investor Visa, or have specific questions regarding the process and how it works, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to keep you better-informed. Read on to learn more.
1. What are the economic advantages, if any?
The primary advantage to the Investor Visa is the ability to reside in Italy long-term. If you are not already an EU citizen, you are limited to only 90 days (in a 180-day period) in Italy/the broader EU. However, with a visa (including the Investor Visa), you would be able to stay for a longer period. For the Investor Visa, this is two years, with the ability to remain longer provided the conditions for the visa continue to be met.
Another advantage is that the investment is made after the visa is obtained, not before, so the funds are not lost if it were to be rejected. In fact, the applicant has until 3 months after arrival in Italy to make the investment.
A final benefit is you might also be able to benefit from Italy’s flat tax regime for high-net-worth individuals. (As of January 1, 2026, this is €300,000).
2. Can I use donated funds for the investment?
Yes, donated funds—for example, from parents or relatives—are acceptable, however it is important the funds have been correctly deposited in your non-Italian bank account before beginning the Investor Visa process. Ideally, three months before the start of the application to keep Italy’s checks on their validity simpler.
3. Can I work or study in Italy with the Investor Visa?
Yes. Unlike Italy’s Elective Residence Visa, which is only for those with passive income (e.g. pensioners) and which expressly stipulates that no active income can be generated while on it, the Investor Visa grants the applicant the right to live, work, and study in Italy.
4. Can cryptocurrency be used for the investment?
No, cryptocurrency itself will not be accepted for an investment for the Italian Investor Visa. However, investing in a crypto or Bitcoin startup—if deemed eligible—could be allowed to obtain the visa.
5. What happens if the start-up I invested in fails?
The investment needs to be maintained for the validity of the visa, two years, as well as any extended time if the permesso di soggiorno is renewed. If the start-up fails and the investment is subsequently lost, it could put your visa—and therefore legal status in Italy—at risk. We suggest speaking to a lawyer directly about your particular circumstance.
As a side note, start-ups that are eligible for applicants for the Investor Visa must come from an official registry, meaning that they must meet strict qualifications.
6. Do I need to have an Italian bank account?
Yes, you will need an Italian bank account to help manage the investment. However, it can be quite difficult to open one as a non-resident, and the investment must be made within three months of moving to Italy. Opening one from abroad is also not often an option. At Italian Citizenship Assistance, we can help facilitate such negotiations, ensuring a smooth process upon arrival to Italy.
7. Can I combine multiple investments?
No, you must choose from only one of the investment options for the visa: €2,000,000 in government bonds; €500,000 in an established Italian company or €250,000 in a start-up, or €1,000,000 in a philanthropic donation.
8. Can my family join me?
Yes, there is a separate visa for family reunification that your immediate family members can obtain. This is only available for spouses, dependent children, and dependent parents.
9. Can I change my investment over the course of the two years?
No, the investment portfolio must remain as it was when the visa was applied for.
10. Can I convert my residence permit to a different one in the future?
Yes, if you are eligible for a different kind of Italian residency permit, you might be able to convert it either at the usual time or renewal or before. (For example, there is one available for self-employment). Again, we recommend seeking individual legal counsel for your particular situation.
