What is Italy’s “Dolce Visa” in 2025

Officially titled the "Investor Visa for Italy," this program is more widely known as the Italy Golden Visa, or colloquially as "La Dolce Visa." Launched in 2017, it aims to attract foreign investors and stimulate the Italian economy through significant investments in Italian assets.

The program offers residency in exchange for investment: the initial visa is valid for 2 years, and extendable for another 3 years. After 5 years, permanent residency becomes an option, and citizenship through naturalization is possible after 10 years.

The term "Dolce Visa" is a clever play on words, merging the aspirational lifestyle of la dolce vita with the advantages of investment immigration.

Who Can Apply for the Dolce Visa: Key Requirements

The program targets non-EU nationals who meet the following conditions:

• Age: 18 and older.
• Clean legal record: No criminal convictions; funds must be of legal origin.
• Investment: Between €250,000 and €2,000,000 depending on the investment type.
• Proof of health insurance and income/residence: For example, a minimum of €8,500/year to demonstrate financial independence.

Family members (spouse, children, and even parents) can be included without additional investment requirements.

Investment Options and Criteria

To qualify for the Dolce Visa, applicants must meet a series of well-defined, albeit strict, conditions under Italian law. Unlike Portugal or Greece, Italy’s program was not designed for real estate purchases, but rather to promote stable and meaningful contributions to the economy and innovation sector.

The applicant must be of legal age (18+), have a clean criminal record, and provide thorough documentation proving the legal source of the funds to be invested. Italy places a strong emphasis on transparency and compliance with anti-money laundering standards.

There are four main investment routes:

1. €250,000 in an innovative Italian startup: Registered in a government database, this is the most accessible but riskiest option. It’s ideal for those familiar with the dynamics of venture capital and willing to bet on the future of Italian tech.
2. €500,000 in shares of an Italian company: Private or publicly listed. This option offers greater capital security and an indirect role in the Italian business ecosystem.
3. €1,000,000 donation: Funds are given to public interest projects in education, environment, research, or cultural heritage. This is a non-refundable route for philanthropists and cultural diplomats.
4. €2,000,000 in Italian government bonds: This is the most capital-intensive but secure option, offering predictable returns and low risk.

Investments are not made upfront. First, applicants apply online to obtain the Nulla Osta — an official pre-approval document. Only after this clearance and visa issuance can the investment be made. Once in Italy, the investor has up to 3 months to fulfill their financial commitments. Compliance is closely monitored for at least two years.

In addition to the investment, applicants must provide housing documentation (rental or purchase), valid health insurance, and proof of income sufficient to avoid reliance on public assistance. While €8,500 is the minimum, a higher income is advisable, especially if dependents are included.

The Dolce Visa is built on a balance of openness and accountability: Italy welcomes affluent individuals who are ready to contribute, but in return demands transparency and reliability. It’s not a quick ticket to Europe — it’s a long-term partnership between investor and state.

Advantages of the Dolce Visa

The Dolce Visa is more than just a residence permit — it opens the door to a lifestyle and a range of practical benefits:

• Italian residency + Schengen access: Live and work in Italy, travel visa-free for up to 90 days in other Schengen countries.
• Tax incentives: Opt for a flat tax of €200,000/year on foreign income for up to 15 years.
• Family inclusion: Spouses, minor and adult children, and parents can be included.
• Access to healthcare and education: Full integration into the EU system.
• No physical presence required: The program does not require a minimum stay.

Caveats and Limitations

Despite its appeal, there are several caveats:

• No real estate option: Investment must be financial, not property-based.
• High financial threshold: Especially for bonds (€2M) or donations (€1M).
• Startup risk: Around 90% of startups may fail — high reward, high risk.
• Bureaucracy: Processing the Nulla Osta and dealing with authorities can take ~4 months.
• Citizenship not guaranteed: Naturalization requires 10 years, language skills, and integration.
• Strict financial monitoring: Compliance with international financial standards is mandatory.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

The Dolce Visa process has three main stages:

1. Obtain Nulla Osta: Submit an online application with identity documents, proof of funds, and an investment plan. Authorities have up to 30 days to review and approve.
2. Apply for the Investor Visa: Once Nulla Osta is granted, apply for the visa at the Italian consulate. The visa is issued for 2 years.
3. Enter Italy and Finalize:
   • Within 8 days: register at the local immigration office (Questura) and obtain a temporary residence permit.
   • Within 3 months: complete the investment (fund transfer, purchase, or donation).
   • Once confirmed, a 2-year residence card is issued.

After 2 years, residency can be renewed for 3 more years. After 5 years, you may apply for permanent residency. After 10 years, you may be eligible for citizenship, provided you meet language and integration criteria.

Comparing Dolce Visa to Other EU Programs

• Portugal Golden Visa: Real estate allowed; citizenship in 5 years, though rules have changed recently.
• Greece Golden Visa: Real estate from €250,000; citizenship after 7 years.
• Italy stands out with tax incentives, no-stay requirements, and generous family policy — but lacks a real estate investment path.

Conclusion: Is Dolce Visa Worth It?

In 2025, the Dolce Visa represents more than immigration — it’s a strategic investment in the European lifestyle, with tax benefits, cultural access, and the long-term potential of an Italian passport. For those who value both practical and aesthetic elements of European life, Italy may well be ready to welcome you.