For individuals aspiring to immigrate to Italy and embark on entrepreneurial ventures, there are several essential considerations to bear in mind. The duration of intended residency plays a pivotal role, as it determines whether pursuing citizenship is the right path. In Italy, one can apply for citizenship after residing in the country for a continuous period of 10 years.

It is important to note that unlike the United States, being born in Italy does not automatically confer citizenship if you are born to a foreign national. Proficiency in the Italian language is also a prerequisite for obtaining citizenship. Alternatively, if the planned period of immigration to Italy is less than 10 years, securing an appropriate visa is a quite viable option.

Relocate.world intern, Ravi Newman, recently spoke with Martina Manfredi - a highly qualified Italian Immigration Lawyer - about Italian Immigration options.

Italian Immigration and Available visas

For entrepreneurs seeking to establish a business in Italy, opting for a start-up visa proves to be a smart decision. The Italian business landscape presents certain challenges for entrepreneurs, necessitating the demonstration of financial capability within a specific range, typically ranging from 50,000 euros to 500,000 euros. Additionally, entrepreneurs are required to create a minimum of three new job opportunities as part of the visa application process. This pathway facilitates the establishment of innovation in Italy, contributing to the country's entrepreneurial ecosystem while also providing opportunities for economic growth and job creation.

A significant number of individuals opt to immigrate to Italy under the self-employment visa category. The Italian government designates an annual quota of 500 visas for this purpose. This visa category offers entrepreneurs a degree of flexibility and autonomy, enabling them to engage in unregulated and unsupervised activities to a certain extent. However, it is important to note that obtaining a self-employment visa entails following a structured application process.

Self Employment visa for Italy

Obtaining a self-employment visa in Italy involves fulfilling several essential requirements and following a structured application process. These measures ensure compliance with Italian regulations and promote a smooth and successful transition for entrepreneurs.

The initial step in the application process is obtaining a certificate of 'no impediment' from the Chamber of Commerce. This certificate serves as confirmation that individuals are authorized to engage in freelance work. Additionally, depending on the specific profession pursued, applicants need to apply for and acquire a nulla osta, a certification indicating their eligibility to work in their chosen field.

Once these certificates are obtained, applicants must visit the consulate in their country of residence to submit the required documentation. This includes tax refunds and financial statements, which serve as evidence of the applicant's financial stability and viability as a self-employed individual. Furthermore, providing proof of adequate housing is mandatory to ensure that applicants have suitable accommodations during their stay in Italy.

Important Considerations for Italy

What are the available visa options for entrepreneurs immigrating to Italy?

Entrepreneurs can explore visa options such as the Start-Up Visa, Self-Employment Visa, or Investor Visa, depending on their specific business plans and requirements.

How will the Italian economy look in the upcoming years?

The Italian economy looks to stay relatively the same with some upside for the upcoming years. The GDP growth is expected to decrease by 0.1 percent going into 2024 yet investment continues to expand. With the falling energy prices, the inflation rate set at 6.1% is expected to decrease down to 2.9% in 2024. The unemployment rate was at 8.1% in 2022 and is expected to fall to 7.7% in 2024. While the inflation rate which was at 8.7% in 2022 is expected to get down to 2.9% which hopefully stables out at around 3% for the years to come.

How long does the immigration process typically take for entrepreneurs in Italy?

The duration of the immigration process can vary depending on various factors, including the visa type, individual circumstances, and administrative processing times. Generally, it is advisable to start the immigration process well in advance to allow for sufficient time for document gathering, application submission, and potential processing delays. Typically prepare for 2-3 weeks for processing and other requests.

Will Italy release a digital nomad/remote work visa soon?

In March 2022, Italian legislators approved a visa category that would permit digital nomads to live and work remotely in Italy. Recent changes in the Italian political system has shifted away from promulgating this legislation, and there is no clear understanding as to when this will become available.