Residency in Italy is governed by various factors, allowing long-term, stable residence in this beautiful country.
For European Union (EU) citizens, the freedom of movement within the Schengen Area allows them to live, work, study, and retire across the EU without restrictions. Unfortunately, this freedom does not extend to non-EU citizens.
The Schengen Area has been a fundamental part of the European project since 1995, eliminating document checks at borders within the area. EU citizens can stay, work, study, and retire in any Schengen Country, while tourists and businesses also enjoy benefits across borders.
EU citizens can stay in another EU country as tourists for up to three months with just an identity card or passport. They also have the right to reside and work in other EU countries, enjoying the same rights as local citizens. Entrepreneurs have the freedom to set up businesses wherever they choose, and students can select the best place to study.
However, this freedom does not apply to non-EU countries (e.g., the United States, the United Kingdom). So, what happens if a U.S. citizen wants to buy property in Italy and move there permanently?
Can a U.S. Citizen Move to Italy?
In general, it depends on whether there’s a bilateral agreement between the U.S. and Italy. Under these agreements, a citizen of a Country can buy property in Italy if an Italian citizen can buy property in that Country.
For example:
- A U.S. citizen can buy property in Italy if an Italian citizen can buy property in the U.S.
Let’s say a retired U.S. citizen can buy property in Italy… can he/she move there permanently? The answer is… it depends.
In principle, U.S. citizens can stay in Italy for up to 180 days without any issues. After this period, they must leave Italy.
However, there’s an option for those wishing to stay permanently: the Elective Residency Visa.
What is the Elective Residency Visa?
This visa allows foreign citizens to move permanently to Italy. To apply, you must first obtain a visa from the Italian Consulate in your home Country. Afterward, you can apply for a residence permit in Italy.
The Elective Residency Visa is designed for foreigners who want to settle in Italy and can prove they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves without needing to work.
(Some) Key Requirements:
- Proof of Income: You must demonstrate that you have enough income – such as a pension, investment returns, or other passive income – to support yourself without relying on employment in Italy.
- Health Insurance: You must have valid health insurance coverage.
- Clean Criminal Record: A spotless criminal history is required.
- Housing: You must either own a property in Italy or have a registered rental contract for at least one year for a property you’ll use as your primary residence.
The visa is not permanent. It needs to be renewed annually. After five years, you can renew it for another five years.
Can You Apply for Citizenship?
After ten years of continuous residency in Italy, you can apply for Italian citizenship.
Is It Easy to Obtain the Visa?
While it might sound simple, it’s not always straightforward. Strict requirements need to be met, and all documents must be properly submitted to ensure a successful application.
In Summary
The Elective Residency Visa offers a fantastic opportunity for non-EU citizens to move to Italy permanently, enjoy the Country’s beauty, and perhaps even retire in a peaceful, sunny environment.
For anyone interested in applying for this visa, our team of Italian legal experts is here to guide you through the process. Feel free to reach out for assistance with the legal requirements and steps involved in obtaining the visa.
