Applications accelerate after a slow start
Italy launched its Investor Visa programme in 2017, but initial uptake remained limited. In 2018, only 7 applications were filed, with even fewer applications in 2019.
Growth became more consistent in 2021 and onwards. Between 2022 and 2025, annual application volumes increased by more than 30% on average, with the strongest acceleration in 2025. Compared to 2024, the number of applications rose by over 60% in the final year of the reported period.
Overall, the programme has shown a compound annual growth rate exceeding 60% since its launch.
Rising demand amid changes to European investor visas
Market participants attribute the growth in Italy’s Golden Visa demand partly to uncertainty surrounding other European residency by investment programmes. Ongoing reforms, suspensions, or stricter requirements in several jurisdictions have prompted investors to reassess available options within the EU.
According to industry representatives quoted in international publications, interest in the Italian programme has increased particularly from applicants based in the US, Canada, the UK, and Turkey.
Based on current trends, some industry forecasts suggest that Italy could see a further rise in applications in 2026. Estimates published in the media indicate that annual application numbers could increase substantially, although no official projections have been issued by the Italian authorities.
Investment routes under the Italy Golden Visa
The Italy Golden Visa grants residence rights to non-EU nationals who make a qualifying investment in the Italian economy. The current investment options include:
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€2 million in Italian government bonds;
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€1 million as a philanthropic donation to a public-interest project;
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€500,000 in shares of an Italian company;
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€250,000 in an innovative Italian startup.
Applicants must obtain a Nulla Osta approval before completing the investment and applying for the residence permit.
Processing times remain stable
Despite rising demand, reported processing timelines have remained broadly stable. According to publicly available information, the preliminary review stage typically takes one to two months, followed by additional steps to finalise the visa and residence permit.
The recent increase in applications positions Italy as one of the European Investor Visa programmes, showing active growth at a time when the broader market is undergoing structural changes.
