As a growing number of Americans envision a dream life in Italy, they want an easy way to get in. The country has three citizenship routes for potential immigrants- descent, marriage, and naturalization. However, not everyone has Italian roots or finds a soulmate who is a citizen of Italy. The naturalization route requires you to start somewhere as you become eligible only after a decade in the country. Things sound daunting if you do not qualify for any of these alternatives. According to experts at Bersani Law Firm, an investor visa can be the catalyst that makes it possible to fulfill the dream. But before going ahead, you must know the process and have realistic expectations. Here are the facts to cover both aspects.
Get your funds in place
An investor visa is about funding, so you must have your funds in place before initiating the process. Since you have to incur a considerable sum, the visa is ideal for high-net-worth Americans. It is also vital to know your investment alternatives to opt for the right one. Here are the ones you can consider-
- €250,000 in an innovative Italian startup
- €500,000 in a business incorporated and operating locally
- €1 million as a philanthropic donation in a project of public interest
- €2 million in Italian government bonds
Besides arranging the funds, you must also be eligible for the visa. Essentially, anyone over 18 years can apply, provided they are in good health and have no criminal record.
Follow the investor visa process
After deciding the investment option that works for you, it is time to start with the process. You have to start with a nulla osta, a certificate that validates your investment. The online application process is simple, and you only have to submit documents as evidence of legit funds. Your certificate comes within 30 days, and you can apply for your investor visa after you have your nulla osta. The investor visa application is to be filed with your local consulate. After you have the visa, you can land in Italy and move a step closer to your dream.
Start a life in Italy as a resident
Once you reach Italy with an investor visa, you can apply for your residence permit at a local police station. The temporary residence permit is valid for two years, and you have to bring in the committed amount after you get it. At this stage, you get all the benefits of Italian residency and can start a life here. It entitles you to live and work in Italy, get access to its healthcare and education facilities, and travel visa-free across the EU. You can get a subsequent renewal of three years after the expiry of the visa period, provided you retain the investment. A five-year stay in Italy gets you permanent residence, and ten years makes you eligible for naturalization.
An investor visa is an extended but simple way to achieve your Italian citizenship dream. Collaborating with an expert makes it even easier to fulfill because they know all about the immigration laws of the country.