Italy’s Golden Visa Gains Popularity Among Affluent Indians: More wealthy Indians are setting their sights on Europe—specifically Italy—through a special visa route known as the Italy Golden Visa. With a minimum investment of €250,000 (around ₹2.5 crore), eligible investors can secure residency in one of Europe’s most iconic countries.
This visa not only opens the door to Italian residency but also offers access to the entire Schengen Area, allowing visa-free travel across 27 European nations.
What Is Italy’s Golden Visa?
Officially called the Italy Residence by Investment Program, this visa is available to non-EU citizens who make qualifying financial investments in Italy.
Unlike other programs in Europe, Italy’s scheme does not allow real estate purchases to qualify. Instead, it encourages support for the country’s businesses, innovation, and public benefit initiatives.
Four Ways to Qualify for Italy’s Golden Visa
Applicants can choose from one of the following investment options:
- €2 million in Italian government bonds
- €500,000 in an established Italian company
- €250,000 in an innovative startup certified by the Italian government
- €1 million as a donation to a public-interest project or charity
Once the investment is made, successful applicants receive a two-year residency permit. If the investment is maintained, this can be extended for an additional three years.
A Path to Permanent Residency in Italy
After five years of uninterrupted residency in Italy, investors may apply for permanent residency or long-term EU status.
However, the journey begins with obtaining a Nulla Osta al visto, a no-objection certificate granted by Italy’s IV4I committee. Without this, a visa application cannot move forward.
Applicants must activate the visa—by physically entering Italy—within two years of its approval.
Special Tax Benefits for Global Investors
Italy also offers a generous tax incentive for foreign investors who shift their tax residency to the country.
Those accepted into the program may choose to pay a flat tax of €100,000 per year on their global income. This benefit is available for up to 15 years.
Family members can be added to the scheme at a reduced rate of €25,000 per person per year.
To qualify, individuals must not have been tax residents in Italy for at least 9 out of the last 10 years.
Why Italy? Economic and Lifestyle Advantages
Italy boasts the third-largest economy in the EU, with a GDP of $2.17 trillion (as of 2022). Milan, the country’s financial hub, is among Europe’s wealthiest cities—home to over 115,000 millionaires and 17 billionaires.
With more than two million Indians already living in Italy, according to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the country offers a welcoming environment for newcomers from India.
A European Dream Within Reach
For high-net-worth individuals, Italy’s Golden Visa presents a strategic way to secure European residency, benefit from tax incentives, and invest in a stable economy.
The key to success lies in selecting the right investment path and staying informed about eligibility rules. Consulting with a qualified immigration advisor can streamline the process and improve your chances of approval.
Whether you’re drawn by the lifestyle, travel freedom, or financial perks, Italy is quickly becoming a top choice for Indian investors looking to expand their global footprint.
