Looking to relocate to Italy without a job or business investment? Italy’s Residenza Elettiva visa offers one of the smoothest and most elegant ways to live long-term in the heart of Europe—if you have passive income and a desire for la dolce vita. In this article, we’ll break down who qualifies, what it costs, and how you can go from application to residency in as little as 6 months.
What Is the Italy Residenza Elettiva Visa?
Italy’s Elective Residence Visa is designed for financially independent individuals who want to move to Italy and enjoy a peaceful life—without working or running a business in the country.
It is ideal for:
- Remote retirees
- High-net-worth individuals
- Digital nomads (with passive income)
- Families seeking long-term European residence
- No job required
- No business activity
- No minimum investment in real estate
You simply need to prove you can afford to live in Italy.
Main Requirements to Move to Italy
To qualify for the Italy Residenza Elettiva visa in 2025, you must meet the following criteria:
✔ Financial Independence
– Minimum annual passive income of €30,960 – Acceptable sources: pensions, dividends, rental income, royalties, etc.
– Employment income is not accepted
Add 100% of that amount for a spouse, and another 100% per child (50% for each additional child beyond 4).
✔ Accommodation in Italy
– You must rent or purchase a place to live in Italy
– Lease agreements must be 12–18 months minimum
– The property value is not legally regulated
✔ Legal Documents
– Valid passport
– Background check (clean criminal record)
– Proof of income and accommodation
– Application submitted in your country of citizenship
What Are the Benefits of Italian Residency?
- Visa-free travel across the EU/Schengen Zone
- Bring your spouse, children, and even financially dependent parents
- No minimum real estate investment required
- Path to Permanent Residency after 5 years
- Eligible for Italian citizenship after 5 years of residency
- Live in one of the most culturally rich, safe, and scenic countries in the world
How Long Does It Take?
| Step | Estimated Time |
| Document preparation | 1 month |
| Visa application review | 2–4 months |
| D Visa issuance & move to Italy | 1–3 days |
| Apply for residence permit | 1–7 days after arrival |
| Residence permit approval | 2–3 months |
| Total time to residency | ~6 months |
Can You Get Citizenship?
Yes. The Residenza Elettiva is a legal path to Italian citizenship.
- After 5 years: Apply for permanent residence
- After 5 years: Apply for citizenship (based on residency, not ancestry)
- You must reside in Italy 183+ days per year to be eligible
Tax Benefits for the Wealthy
Italy offers a flat tax regime of €100,000/year for HNWIs who:
- Have not been tax residents of Italy in the previous 9 years
- Choose to relocate and bring foreign income
- Want to be exempt from taxation on worldwide income for up to 15 years
What’s the Cost?
| Item | Cost (EUR) |
| Soland’s Legal & Professional Fees | from €15,500 |
| Legalization of documents | ~€150 |
| Residence permit fee | ~€80 |
| Monthly rental property | from €1,500/month |
| Optional: Flat tax (HNWIs) | €100,000/year |
Can You Work or Start a Business?
No. The Residenza Elettiva prohibits employment and business activity in Italy.
However, you can:
- Earn passive income from abroad
- Rent out property in other countries
- File your Italian tax return normally
This makes it perfect for retirees or financially independent individuals—not active entrepreneurs.
Final Thoughts: Is Moving to Italy Worth It?
If you’re looking to live in a beautiful European country, enjoy the Schengen lifestyle, and eventually gain EU citizenship—all without needing to invest hundreds of thousands of euros—Italy’s Residenza Elettiva is the way to go.
It’s especially attractive for Americans, Canadians, Brits, South Africans, and Latin Americans seeking a peaceful life in Europe.
Need Help?
Soland offers full support, from eligibility assessment to complete visa processing.
We’ve helped hundreds of families start a new life in Italy—let us help you next.
Contact us today to begin your Italy relocation journey.
Email: info@solandworld.com
WhatsApp: +971 52 857 6996
