Italy Golden Visa: A Gateway for Indian Investors to Access the EU without Real Estate
India’s wealthy investors can now access the EU through Italy’s Golden Visa program, which offers residency in exchange for investments in government bonds, startups, and philanthropic ventures, without the need for real estate.
Italy Golden VisaInvestor VisaEuropean ResidencyTax IncentivesInvestment OptionsReal EstateJun 21, 2025
Known officially as the Italy Residence by Investment Program, the scheme allows non-EU citizens to obtain a two-year investor visa by injecting capital into government bonds, innovative startups, Italian companies, or philanthropic ventures. Notably, real estate investment is not eligible under this program.
Applicants can choose from four qualifying routes: €2 million in Italian government bonds, €500,000 in an Italian company, €250,000 in a certified startup, or €1 million in philanthropic initiatives. Successful applicants receive a two-year residence permit, which is renewable for three years if the original investment is maintained.
After five years of continuous residence, applicants can either extend their permit or apply for long-term EU residency or permanent Italian residency. A ‘Nulla Osta al visto’ (no objection certificate) issued by the IV4I committee is mandatory for obtaining the visa, and the visa itself must be used within two years of issuance.
Beyond lifestyle appeal, Italy’s tax incentives are a major draw. Investors transferring tax residence to Italy can opt for a special regime that caps foreign income tax at €100,000 annually, extendable to family members for an additional €25,000 each. The scheme lasts for up to 15 years and is open only to individuals who weren’t tax-resident in Italy for 9 out of the last 10 years.
Italy, with a GDP of $2.17 trillion in 2022, is the EU’s third-largest economy. Milan alone hosts over 115,000 millionaires and 17 billionaires, making it the third-richest city in Europe. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, more than 2 million overseas Indians now live in Italy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Italy Golden Visa program?
The Italy Golden Visa, officially known as the Italy Residence by Investment Program, allows non-EU citizens to obtain a two-year investor visa by investing in government bonds, startups, Italian companies, or philanthropic ventures.
What are the investment options under the Italy Golden Visa?
Applicants can choose from four qualifying routes: €2 million in Italian government bonds, €500,000 in an Italian company, €250,000 in a certified startup, or €1 million in philanthropic initiatives.
Is real estate investment eligible under the Italy Golden Visa program?
No, real estate investment is not eligible under the Italy Golden Visa program. Applicants must invest in government bonds, startups, Italian companies, or philanthropic ventures.
What are the tax benefits for investors under the Italy Golden Visa program?
Investors transferring tax residence to Italy can opt for a special regime that caps foreign income tax at €100,000 annually, extendable to family members for an additional €25,000 each. This regime lasts for up to 15 years and is open to individuals who weren’t tax-resident in Italy for 9 out of the last 10 years.
What is the process for obtaining the Italy Golden Visa?
Applicants must first obtain a ‘Nulla Osta al visto’ (no objection certificate) from the IV4I committee. Once approved, they can apply for the visa, which must be used within two years of issuance. Successful applicants receive a two-year residence permit, renewable for three years if the original investment is maintained.
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