While Brexit complicated things for UK citizens, getting Italian residency as a non-EU foreigner isn't the bureaucratic maze you’d imagine.
There are actually a few different pathways to Italian residency, each designed for different situations.
Whether you're planning retirement under the Mediterranean sun, looking to invest in Italian business, or just want to experience la dolce vita as a local, you’ll need to know a little about each one, first.
Is it difficult to get Italian residency?
Italian bureaucracy has a bit of a reputation, but what the headlines don't tell you is that thousands of non-EU citizens successfully obtain Italian residency every year.
The process usually takes from 3-6 months – that’s the period from application to approval. There's quite a bit of paperwork involved, but it's totally structured and predictable. The smooth road comes when you choose the right pathway for your situation and prepare your documents properly.
Rejections usually only happen because applicants either picked the wrong visa type, or submitted incomplete documentation. With proper preparation, your chances of approval are strong.
The main pathways explained
The elective residence visa
This is often the most accessible route for those with sufficient passive income. Generally, you’ll need at least €31,000–€38,000 annually (for a single applicant) from pensions, investments, or rental income — funds that don’t require you to work in Italy.
The catch? You cannot work while on this visa. But if you're retired or have location-independent income, this opens the door to Italian residency without the complexity of business investments.
The application process involves proving your income stability, demonstrating health insurance coverage, and showing you won't become a burden on Italian social services. Processing typically takes 90–120 days through your local Italian consulate.
The investor visa (sometimes called the "golden visa")
Italy’s Investor Visa programme requires one of the following investments:
- €250,000 in an innovative startup,
- €500,000 in an Italian limited company,
- €1 million as a philanthropic donation supporting culture, education, or heritage,
- or €2 million in Italian government bonds.
Unlike some countries, Italy does not grant residency through real estate purchases alone.
This pathway appeals to entrepreneurs looking to establish or acquire Italian businesses. The investment must create jobs for Italian workers and contribute to the economy. Your family can join you, and after five years, you're eligible for permanent residency.
The application process is more complex than elective residence, involving business plans, financial projections, and extensive documentation. Expect 6-12 months for approval.
Work and self-employment visas
If you have a job offer from an Italian employer, the work visa may be an option. However, your employer must prove they couldn’t fill the role with an EU citizen first — which makes this route competitive due to annual quotas (Decreto Flussi).
Self-employment visas are an option for freelancers, consultants, and entrepreneurs. You’ll need to show you have the means to support yourself and that your business will benefit Italy’s economy. Requirements vary by region and profession, so plan carefully and check with your local consulate.
Family connections
Marriage to an EU citizen or family reunification offers the fastest path to Italian residency. Spouses of Italian or EU citizens can apply for residence permits immediately.
Family reunification extends to parents, children, and dependent relatives of Italian residents. The Italian resident must demonstrate they can financially support their family members.
Financial requirements for an Italian Visa
- Elective residence visa: €31,000–€38,000 annual passive income, plus private health insurance and accommodation.
- Investor visa: €250,000–€2 million investment, depending on the type, plus sufficient personal funds for living expenses.
- Work visa: Minimum salary depends on the job role and region — expect higher income thresholds in northern Italy.
- Application fees: Typically €116–€200, depending on the visa type.
- Living costs: Budget €1,200–€2,000 per month, depending on your lifestyle and location — Milan and Rome cost more than smaller towns or the south.
You must demonstrate ongoing, stable income — not just lump sums in a bank account. Many consulates prefer to see 12+ months of consistent bank deposits.
Timeline and next steps: your Italian visa plan
Months 1–2: Choose the right pathway for your situation. Research requirements and gather documents (income proof, accommodation, health insurance, background checks).
Months 3–4: Submit your application at your local Italian consulate. Book your appointment early — slots can fill up weeks in advance.
Months 5–6: Await your decision and prepare for your move! If approved, you’ll receive an entry visa. Once in Italy, you’ll complete the final steps for your permesso di soggiorno (residence permit).
Key takeaways
Thousands of people successfully navigate this process each year. The question isn't whether it's possible, it's how you get there! Here are some key takeaways:
- Think about which pathway matches your situation and long-term goals
- Contact the Italian consulate in your area for specific requirements
- Start collecting your documents, like income statements, criminal background checks, and health insurance proof
- Think about visiting Italy to explore regions and understand local requirements
FAQs
Is it hard to get residency in Italy?
Not if you prepare properly. The process is structured and well-defined. Most people are approved within 3–6 months if they submit a complete, well-prepared application.
Can I live in Italy as a UK citizen?
Yes — post-Brexit, UK citizens are treated as non-EU nationals. This means you can still live in Italy, but you’ll need to apply for a visa like any other non-EU citizen (elective residence, investor, work permit, or family route).
What is an elective residence visa?
It’s a visa for non-EU citizens with sufficient passive income who want to live in Italy without working. You’ll need to prove stable income (typically €31,000+ annually), health insurance, and accommodation.
Tip: Residency for immigration is different from tax residency. Staying in Italy for more than 183 days a year will generally make you a tax resident — plan accordingly.
Ready to make Italy your home?
Once your residency plans are underway, you will need to secure a place to live. Whether you wish to buy a farmhouse in Tuscany, an apartment in Rome, or a villa by the sea, idealista is one of Italy’s most popular and trusted property portals for finding homes to rent or buy. You can filter by location, budget, and property type to compare prices and options realistically in your preferred regions, helping you align your lifestyle goals as you prepare for your move to Italy.
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