What Is the Italy Golden Visa?
The Italy Golden Visa (also called the Investor Visa) allows non-EU citizens to obtain residency rights in Italy by making a qualifying economic investment. Visa holders can legally reside, study, and work in Italy, travel freely within the Schengen Zone, and potentially transition to permanent residency and citizenship.
Investment Options & Minimum Thresholds
Applicants must choose one of the following paths:
- Innovative startup investment: minimum €250,000
- Italian limited company investment: minimum €500,000
- Philanthropic donation (culture, research, education): minimum €1,000,000
- Government bonds: minimum €2,000,000
Note: Real estate purchases no longer qualify for the Golden Visa program.
Duration & Path to Citizenship
- Initial residence permit: valid 2 years, renewable for 3 years if the investment is maintained.
- After 5 years of continuous legal residence, applicants may apply for permanent residence.
- After 10 years, and upon meeting language, integration, and tax requirements, applicants may apply for citizenship.
Other Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 years or older and hold a non-EU passport.
- Provide proof of lawful source of funds (bank statements, income records).
- Hold valid health insurance in Italy.
- No serious criminal convictions; good character required.
- Must register with immigration authorities and provide supporting documentation after arrival.
How Dogpay Supports Applicants
Dogpay plays a crucial role in streamlining the financial side of the Golden Visa:
| Scenario | Common Challenge | Dogpay Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Transferring investment funds | Delays, hidden fees, poor exchange rates | Dogpay ensures fast, transparent, low-cost multi-currency transfers |
| Paying for legal, translation, or notary services | Numerous small scattered payments | Dogpay categorizes expenses and exports receipts for clear financial records |
| Paying application or renewal fees | Delays in cross-border payments risk missed deadlines | Dogpay executes quick official payments with predictable costs |
| Proving source of funds | Need transparent financial history for compliance | Dogpay provides complete transaction logs exportable in PDF/CSV for legal proof |
