Episode 7. The Italian Investor Visa: is it really your Golden Visa?
Its features and possible alternatives

The Italian Investor Visa Program is a government initiative that aims to attract foreign investors to
Italy by offering them a path to permanent residency in the country. The program, which was launched in 2017, requires foreign investors to invest at least €500,000 in an Italian company or €2 million in Italian government bonds, or 1 Million in a philanthropic project or 250,000 euro on a Innovative startup program.
The program is open to investors from all over the world and provides several benefits, including a fast-track application process, access to healthcare and education services, and the ability to travel freely within the Schengen Area.

Successful applicants are granted a two-year residency permit, which can be renewed for an additional three years and can eventually lead to permanent residency.
The Italian Investor Visa Program has been well-received by foreign investors, particularly those from non-EU countries such as China, the United States, and the Middle East. It has also been credited with boosting Italy's economy and attracting much-needed foreign investment.

The investor visa is occasionally referred to as the "Golden Visa" because there is a misconception that significant investment automatically guarantees approval. However, this is not the case, as the visa application process requires a detailed and comprehensive submission that must undergo thorough scrutiny by a commission based in Rome. The documentation required includes a resume of the applicant, details of the applicant's economic background, and banking certificates that confirm
the source of the funds to prevent any potential issues related to money laundering. And the target company must be active and in good standing.
Additionally, there have been some concerns about the Italian Investor Visa program, including the high investment threshold, which may not be accessible to smaller investors or startups. Therefore, alternative solutions such as the "Elective Residency Visa" and the "Entrepreneurs Visa" (part of the self-employed visa scheme) are considered options that require smaller investments.
In certain cases, creating an Italian company combined with the highly qualified professional application could also be an interesting solution. Once again, every case is different and must be analysed with a tailor-made appraisal of your individual circumstances.
Overall, the Italian Investor Visa Program represents an interesting opportunity for foreign investors who are interested in obtaining permanent residency in Italy while also contributing to the country's economy. It also allows to skip and avoid the limitations of the quota system and allow to bring with you your immediate family.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal advice specific to your circumstances.