Residence in Italy
Introduction and summary of programs
Italy is undoubtedly one of the world’s top immigration destinations. It is an industrialized and advanced country with the third-largest economy in the European Union and the ninth-largest in the world. As a founding member of the European Union, Schengen Area, NATO, and the World Trade Organization, Italy is also part of the G7, representing some of the world’s most developed countries.
This picturesque country is not only tourist-friendly but also rich in culture and history, bordered by Switzerland, France, and Austria. Italy is often called the heart of European history and civilization because it is home to the world’s oldest legislative body, the Roman Parliament, which is 2,500 years old. The Bank of Siena, one of the oldest banks in the world, has been operating for over 600 years, with 12 of the world’s 20 oldest banks founded in Italy. Italian universities, such as the University of Bologna, Padua, Naples, and Siena, have a history spanning a thousand years and are among the first in the world. Florence is recognized as the birthplace of the European Renaissance, and Italy played a significant role in the scientific advancements and modernization that began in the new era.
It’s important to note that simply registering a company or buying property, as some immigration companies advertise, does not guarantee residency in Italy. Below, we outline seven effective methods for immigrating to Italy, which we can efficiently assist Parex clients with.
1) Residence in Italy through Golden Visa Investment
To obtain the Golden Visa in Italy, you must invest:
- €250,000 in a startup,
- €500,000 in an active company, or
- Purchase government bonds worth €2 million.
2) Residence in Italy through Business Partnership
You can gain residency by collaborating with a reputable Italian firm.
3) Residence in Italy through Academic Records
Residency can be based on the applicant’s educational and employment history and can be converted to work residency.
4) Residence in Italy through Job Offer
You can obtain residency if you receive a job offer from an Italian company.
5) Residence in Italy through Remote Work
This option allows you to live in Italy while working online instead of in a physical office.
6) Residence in Italy through Financial Ability
If you have a source of income from Iran without needing to work, you can reside in Italy based on financial independence.
7) Residence in Italy through Self-Employment and Economic Activity
You can obtain residency by providing a business plan to start your own business.
Advantages of living and staying in Italy
- Quality of life in a modern, developed country with a vibrant culture, pleasant climate, varied cuisine, and friendly locals.
- Jobs and schooling in a nation with a robust economy and cutting-edge industries and technology.
- Having advantages like insurance and access to free and quality medical and treatment services
- Obtaining education at top schools and renowned universities in Italy and Europe for no cost.
- Owning a bank account, Visa card, Master card, and credit card in well-known global banks.
- The chance of acquiring permanent residency status and a legitimate Italian citizenship.
- Capability to journey across every region of Europe
- The opportunity to work throughout Europe
Residence in Italy by investment
GOLDEN VISA
There are three methods to obtain residency in Italy through investment, which covers the applicant, their spouse, children under 17, and financially dependent parents over 65. The differences among these methods depend on the level and type of investment:
Method 1: Investment in a Startup
- Investment Amount: €250,000
- Description: This involves investing in a creative and growing startup that has been approved by the Italian government. Startups focus on innovative work, particularly in new technologies, contributing to the country’s economy. These businesses are typically less than five years old.
- Benefit: This method requires a relatively low investment compared to the other options.
Method 2: Investment in an Established Company
- Investment Amount: €500,000
- Description: Invest in an active company that has been in operation for at least three years and shows positive profitability. This company can be public or private, limited liability, or have private or public shares.
Method 3: Investment in Government Securities
- Investment Amount: €2,000,000
- Description: Invest in Italian government bonds.
- Benefit: The Italian government guarantees your capital, including principal and profits, ensuring a return every three months. On average, the net annual profit for every €2 million invested is €80,000. Additionally, investors receive individual points and rewards each year.
Residency Card Renewal
- For all investment categories, the initial residency card is valid for two years, the next one for three years, and the final card provides permanent residency.
Family Residence
- Under the investment program, the residency status for the spouse and children is approved at the same time as that of the main applicant.
Processing Timeline
- It usually takes about 2 to 4 months from the application date to receive the residency and travel visa for Italy.
Essential Requirements for Investment Residence Applicants
- Age Requirement:
The main applicant must be at least 18 years old. - Minimum Capital:
The applicant must have a minimum amount of capital in their bank account for one of the three investment options. - Source of Funds:
The applicant must provide proof that their capital and income were obtained legally and ethically. - Capital Maintenance:
The applicant must maintain their investment capital in Italy for the entire duration of their stay (at least 2 years). - Investment Deposit Timeline:
After arriving in Italy, the applicant must deposit their investment amount within a maximum of 90 days.
Required Documents for Residency Permit from the Italian Government
- Passports:
Passports for the applicant, spouse, and children under 17 must be valid for at least 2 years. - Power of Attorney:
The applicant must provide the lawyer from Parex Company with both the original and a translated version of the power of attorney for residency purposes. - Certificate Translations:
The marriage certificate and birth certificates for all family members must be translated into Italian. - Resume and Biography:
A resume and biography must be prepared for the primary applicant, as well as for their spouse and children. - Financial Documentation:
Financial papers must include a 3-month bank certificate that confirms the capital amount. - Background Check:
A certificate indicating there is no negative criminal record must be provided.
Additional Documents for Resident Visa from the Italian Embassy
- Previously Listed Documents:
All documents mentioned in the previous section must be included. - Government Permit:
A permit from the Italian government authorizing the grant of investment residency is required. - Proof of Earnings:
Evidence of the candidate’s income from the year prior to submitting the application must be provided. - Accommodation Reservation:
A reservation for a hotel or a rental agreement for housing upon arrival in Italy is necessary.
Documents Required in Italy for Obtaining the Original Residence Permit
- Passport and Translated Documents:
A valid passport, along with the translated contract and birth certificate. - Residence Permit and Visa:
The Italian embassy will issue the residence permit and visa, as well as the investment permit from the Italian government. - Rental Agreement:
A rental agreement for housing in Italy must be provided. - Deposit Certificates:
A certificate of deposit confirming the purchase of company shares or a certificate of deposit for acquiring government securities is required.
Residence in Italy through a business partner
Italy’s well-established companies, which generate significant revenue, are open to partnering with experienced and skilled foreigners as partners, managers, or senior consultants. At Parex, we evaluate the qualifications and skills of Iranian and foreign applicants and match them with Italian companies that align with their expertise.
After a successful interview process and approval from the Italian company, the candidate will receive a job invitation along with a work residency permit. The main applicant will then obtain a one-year residence visa from the Italian consulate in Tehran. Upon arrival in Italy, they will receive their first one-year residency card, followed by two cards valid for two years each. After five years, they can apply for permanent residency in Italy.
Additionally, the spouse and children under 17 of the main applicants can also enter Italy and obtain residency cards after the main applicant receives theirs.
Renewal Process
- Initially, the first two residency cards are issued for one year each. This is followed by two cards valid for two years each. After five years of residency in Italy, the applicant can obtain a permanent residence permit.
Residence for Family Members
After the main applicant receives their first residence card, the process for family residence can begin for the spouse and children.
Timeline for Application
The timeframe from the application date to receiving the residence visa and traveling to Italy typically spans about 6 to 8 months for the applicant.
Requirements for the applicant for a business partner residence permit
- The main applicant must be at least 18 years old.
- The applicant must have good physical and mental health.
- should have at least 3 years of documented work experience in a managerial position.
- The applicant must have sufficient financial resources to cover the first year of living expenses in Italy.
Documents required to obtain a residence permit from the Italian government
- Passport with a minimum validity of 2 years for the applicant.
- Original and translated power of attorney for the applicant to handle residency matters with the Parex company lawyer.
- Translation of the applicant’s birth certificate into Italian.
- A resume and personal history for the main applicant, spouse, and children.
- Translation of all work-related documents
Additional documents required to obtain a residence visa from the Italian embassy
- All documents mentioned in the previous section.
- Government approval from Italy for issuing residency.
- Invitation letter and documents from the Italian company.
- Certificate of financial capability and bank statements for a 6-month period.
- Hotel or housing reservation for accommodation upon arrival in Italy
Residence in Italy through academic and educational qualifications
Applicants for residence in Italy with suitable academic qualifications receive a one-year residency permit and can enter Italy on their own. The spouse and children under 17 of the main applicants can join after the main applicant receives their card. During the first year of residence, before the initial residence card expires, the applicant’s residency can be converted to a work or entrepreneurial permit based on their experience, knowledge, and interests.
Residence Permit Renewal
First, you get two one-year cards. Then, you get two cards for two years each. After living in Italy for five years, you can get a permanent residence card.
Note: For the first renewal, you need to have about €30,000 in your Italian bank account for one week.
Residence for Family
After you get your first residence card as an entrepreneur, you can start the process to apply for your family’s residence.
Timeline
It takes about 6 to 8 months from the start of the process until you get the visa and can travel to Italy.
Requirements for applying for a scientific residence
- The main applicant must be at least 18 years old.
- Must be physically and mentally healthy.
- Should know either English or Italian.
- For applicants under 25 years old: at least a high school diploma is required. For those over 25, at least a bachelor’s degree is needed.
- Must have enough money to cover living expenses for the first year in Italy
Documents Required for Obtaining a Residence Permit from the Italian Government
- Passport:
A passport that is valid for a minimum of 2 years. - Academic Transcripts:
Original transcripts from high school and university, along with their translations into Italian. - Birth Certificate:
The applicant’s birth certificate translated into Italian. - Resume and Personal Background:
A CV and personal history for the main applicant, spouse, and children. - Work-Related Documents:
Translations into Italian of all relevant work-related documents.
Additional Documents for Obtaining a Residence Visa from the Italian Embassy
- All the documents mentioned in the previous section.
- An invitation letter from Italy.
- Proof of financial stability and a bank statement showing at least €10,000 for the past 6 months.
- Hotel or housing reservation for your stay upon arrival in Italy.
Italian Residence via Job Offer and Blue Card
The Italian Blue Card functions similarly to the U.S. Green Card, granting non-EU professionals the right to live and work in Italy. This card also allows the main applicant’s spouse and children under 17 to reside in Italy with them.
To obtain a Blue Card, applicants must have a job offer with a minimum annual salary of €28,000. If you have an invitation from an Italian company that meets these criteria, we can assist you in applying for your Blue Card. If you don’t yet have a job offer, we will evaluate your skills and experience and connect you with suitable Italian companies.
Once you successfully complete an interview and receive approval from the company, you will be issued an invitation and a work permit. The main applicant will then receive a one-year residence visa from the Italian consulate in Tehran. Upon arrival in Italy, you will receive the first residence card, which is valid for one year, followed by two subsequent cards valid for two years each. After five years of residency, you can apply for permanent residence in Italy. Additionally, the spouse and children under 17 can join the main applicant in Italy once they have their residence cards.
Renewal of Residence Card
The initial residence card is valid for one year. Following this, you will receive two subsequent cards, each valid for two years, after which you can obtain a permanent residence card.
Important Note: For the first renewal, the applicant must maintain a balance of approximately €30,000 in their Italian bank account for a duration of one week.
Residence for Spouse and Children
Once the main applicant has received their first residence card, they can begin the process to apply for residency for their spouse and children.
Timeline
The timeframe to receive the residence visa and travel to Italy is typically between 3 to 6 months from the date of application.
Requirements for Blue Card Residence
- Must be between 25 and 49 years old.
- At least a bachelor’s degree (diploma holders need 5 years of specialized work experience).
- Must be physically and mentally healthy.
- At least 3 years of documented work experience.
- Preferably, knowledge of Italian or English at an A2 level.
- Must have enough financial resources to cover living expenses for the first year in Italy.
Documents Required for Obtaining a Residence Permit from the Italian Government
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be between 25 and 49 years old.
- Educational Qualification: A minimum of a bachelor’s degree is required. If the applicant holds only a diploma, they must have at least 5 years of specialized work experience.
- Health Status: Applicants must be in good physical and mental health.
- Work Experience: A minimum of 3 years of documented work experience is required.
- Language Proficiency: Knowledge of Italian or English at an A2 level is preferred.
- Financial Resources: Applicants must have sufficient financial means to cover their living expenses for the first year in Italy.
Additional Documents for Obtaining a Residence Visa from the Italian Embassy
- All documents mentioned previously.
- Government approval from Italy for the issuance of the residence permit.
- Invitation letter and documents from the Italian company.
- Proof of financial stability and a bank statement for the past 6 months.
- Hotel or housing reservation for your stay upon arrival in Italy
Residence in Italy through Remote Work
This residence option, known as a Digital Visa, is designed for individuals who have jobs outside of Italy. This can include running their own business or being employed by another company. However, the work must be done remotely without the need for their physical presence, such as web designers, programmers, architects, psychologists, and online consultants.
These individuals can live in Italy and work online, using their combined income to cover their living expenses.
Important Requirements:
- The main applicant must have at least a master’s degree.
- They must also have a minimum annual income of €28,000
Requirements for Blue Card Residence
- Minimum age of 25 years.
- Must have at least €28,000 in annual income.
- At least a master’s degree.
- A minimum of 3 years of documented work experience.
- Must have enough financial resources to cover living expenses for the first year in Italy.
Documents Required for Obtaining a Residence Visa from the Italian Embassy
- A passport with at least 2 years of validity.
- Italian translation of the applicant’s birth certificate.
- Italian translations of all work-related documents.
- Proof of financial stability and a bank statement for the past 6 months.
- Documents related to renting or purchasing a home for residence in Italy
Residence in Italy through Financial Means
This residency option is ideal for those who have a consistent and reliable source of income outside Italy. Examples of qualifying income include monthly earnings from dividends, interest on savings, rental income from properties, or assured income from businesses, factories, shops, and similar ventures.
Important Note: Many foreigners with financial residency are living in the pleasant southern parts of Europe. Most of these individuals are retirees from countries such as the United States, Canada, and northern European nations like Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium. The majority are over 60 years old and have completed their working lives. They prefer to enjoy their pensions, rental incomes, and bank interest in quieter, more affordable towns or coastal and mountainous areas of southern Italy, Spain, and Portugal, rather than staying in busy cities in the colder northern hemisphere.
As a result, if a young family that has not yet reached retirement age applies for this type of residency or intends to live in larger cities like Rome, Milan, Turin, Paris, or Madrid, their choice may seem unusual. This can lead to concerns from the embassy, potentially resulting in the rejection of their application. Therefore, we advise that you pursue this residency option only if you plan to reside in smaller towns and villages in Italy.
Requirements for Financial Residency
The main applicant must have a minimum net annual income of €32,000 for the current year and for the next five years. Additionally, the financial requirements for family members are as follows: the spouse must have an income of €6,500, and each child under 18 must have €1,600.
The income requirements are structured as follows:
- A single individual must earn €32,000 annually.
- A couple must have a combined income of €38,500.
- A family of three should have a total income of €40,100.
- A family of four needs an income of €41,700.
- A family of five must earn at least €43,300.
Documents Required for Obtaining a Financial Residency Visa from the Italian Embassy
To apply for a Financial Residency Visa from the Italian Embassy, the following documents are required:
- Passport: Valid for at least 2 years for the main applicant, spouse, and children.
- Passport Copies: Copies and scans of the first page and all stamped pages, including previous visas from current and past passports.
- Birth Certificates: Italian translations of the birth certificates for the applicant, spouse, and children.
- Marriage Certificate: Translation of the marriage certificate into Italian.
- Resume (CV): A complete CV for the main applicant, spouse, and children over 17 years old.
- Power of Attorney: A document granting authority to an official lawyer from Parex Company to manage the applicant’s case in Italy.
- Housing Documentation: Evidence related to renting or purchasing a home in Italy.
- Bank Statements: Bank statements for the past 6 months for personal and business accounts in English, along with a letter from the bank confirming financial stability.
- Income Documentation: Italian translations of all documents showing a steady monthly or annual income, including savings account statements, dividend earnings, lease agreements, ownership titles, and business income from companies or shops.
- Employment Documents: Licenses and official registrations in the newspaper.
- Tax Documents: Tax documentation for the past 3 years.
- Verification of Income: Documentation originating from your profession must be verified by an official authority, such as certified auditing companies.
Additional Information on Financial Residency Visa
- Education: The applicant and all family members are allowed to study in schools and universities in Italy and across Europe.
- Employment Restrictions: While the applicant is not permitted to work in Italy, they can convert this residency into an entrepreneurship residency or other types of residencies in the second year. This conversion would allow them to start a business.
- Residency Purpose: This residency is intended for individuals who want to live in Italy without working, relying on a stable and continuous income from their home country. Applicants can live in Italy by purchasing or renting a home and utilizing their income for living expenses. Therefore, this residency is not recommended for those who do not plan to reside in Italy.
- Housing: Although purchasing a home is not a requirement for this residency, buying any type of property (even a small apartment) can greatly expedite and strengthen the residency process. It may also assist in speeding up the acquisition of permanent residency. There is no specified minimum or maximum amount required for purchasing a home.
Advantages of Financial Residency
- The applicant is not required to work or start a business, nor do they have to pay ongoing business expenses.
- There are no taxes to be paid.
- After 5 years, it is possible to obtain permanent residency.
Italy Residency through Self-Employment and Economic Activity
You can migrate to Italy and obtain residency by presenting a suitable business plan for starting a company. After approval from relevant authorities in Italy, you can proceed with your application. We will prepare a business plan based on your work and academic background, in line with Italian government standards, to show that your business will positively impact the local and national economy. This plan will include all details about the budget, costs, workforce, advertising, and sales for the first three years of your business.
Once the business plan is approved, we will secure your residency permit from the Italian government. The Italian embassy in Iran will issue a Type D visa for you, and after your arrival in Italy, you’ll receive your residency card, register your company, and start your desired business activity.
Residency Card Renewal
For self-employment, the first residency card is issued for 1 year, followed by two 2-year extensions. After that, permanent residency can be granted.
Residency for Spouse and Children
Once the main applicant receives their first residency card, the process for applying for family residency begins.
Timeline
It takes approximately 6 to 8 months from the start of the application process to receiving the residency visa and traveling to Italy.
Requirements for Residency through Company Registration
- Age: The main applicant must be between 18 and 55 years old.
- Financial Requirement: You need to have at least €150,000 in a bank in Iran to cover business startup costs and living expenses for the first 3 years in Italy.
- Work Experience: A minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience in the field you plan to start in Italy.
Documents Required for Obtaining a Residency Permit from the Italian Government
- A passport with at least 1 year of validity for the main applicant, spouse, and children.
- Translated marriage certificate and translated birth certificates of all family members into Italian.
- A resume and personal information of the main applicant, spouse, and children.
- A business plan for the intended activity in Italy (prepared by Parex).
- Financial documents including a 3-month bank statement showing a minimum of €150,000 in the bank.
Additional Documents for Obtaining a Residency Visa from the Italian Embassy
- All the documents mentioned in the previous section.
- Permit from the Italian government for residency through company registration.
- Proof of the applicant’s financial stability for the 6-month period before applying.
- A hotel or housing reservation for initial accommodation in Italy.
Business Plan (Feasibility Study)
The three main principles of a business plan:
- We must demonstrate that this plan will not only cover all your business and personal expenses but also provide benefits for both you and Italy.
- Prove your technical, managerial skills, and language proficiency to effectively manage your company.
- Show that you have sufficient funds to cover all the initial costs of setting up the business.
Key Sections of a Business Plan
- Project name and idea of the business.
- A full introduction of the activity, including a description of your product or service in the market.
- Market demand for your product in Italy.
- The required investment and your plan for securing the necessary funds.
- Your advertising and marketing strategy.
- Information on the number and type of customers, along with a growth chart for customers and market expansion.
- Connection of the plan to technology and innovation.
- Sales forecast for 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year periods.
The Residency Process by Parex
Important information regarding residency and citizenship in Italy
Permanent Residency
After 5 years of temporary residency in Italy, you can apply for permanent residency. The requirements for obtaining permanent residency include:
- Holding an A2 Italian language certificate.
- Living in Italy continuously.
- Maintaining the initial investment amount for investment residency.
- Having a minimum registered income in Italy for 3 consecutive years to cover living expenses.
Italian Passport
The Italian passport is ranked as the second most powerful passport in the world, even higher than those of the UK, Canada, and the USA. You can typically apply for an Italian passport after 10 years of residency. The conditions for obtaining an Italian passport and citizenship include:
- Holding a B1 Italian language certificate.
- Living in Italy continuously.
- Having a clean criminal record in both Italy and Iran.
- Having a minimum registered income in Italy for 3 consecutive years to cover living expenses.
Parex Services for Italy
- Obtaining seven types of residencies permits for foreign applicants.
- Registering companies or branches in Italy and providing all services to keep your company operational.
- Assisting with academic admissions to universities, schools, and educational institutions in Italy.
- Helping to obtain Schengen visas for Italy.
- Completing documents and forms for Schengen visa applications.
- Scheduling embassy appointments for visa applications or document verification.
- Organizing tourist tours based on customer requests.
Parex Services for Clients in Italy
- Completing documents for the Type D residency visa application.
- Planning and following up until the residency card are received in Italy.
- Guidance and assistance in renting residential property in Italy.
- Handling all necessary actions to obtain insurance cards, national identification numbers, and residency permits in Italy.
- Advice and support for opening a bank account for the applicant.
Applicant Costs
- Fees for Parex’ services for obtaining residency.
- Travel expenses to Italy, including flights, hotel accommodations, and transfers to the destination city.
- Housing-related costs, including:
- Deposit
- Monthly rent
- Agency commission
- Government fees such as insurance and stamps, approximately €500 per person.
- Document translation and embassy verification costs, approximately €250.
- Embassy stamp fee for the visa, €120 per person.
