Launch or Invest an Innovative Venture in Italy

The Italian Ministry of Economic Development (MoED) provides a streamlined pathway for non-EU nationals and entrepreneurs to establish an Italian start-up business. Despite being launched in 2012, the “italia start-up” program is still fairly untested. overall, this Start-Up Visa” has proven to be an effective way to channel new investment, foster innovate growth and stimulate entrepreneurial spirit in Italy.

The start-up visa offers numerous incentives for those that qualify.

Start-Up Visa Benefits:

Attractive & secure investment opportunities

Ability to start your own innovative business

Remain in Italy indefinitely by extending the visa

Eligible for permanent residency after 5-years

Work & live anywhere in Italy

Access to the European Union

We have decades of combined experience representing foreign-national investors and entrepreneurs in Italy. Speak with our expert immigration and tax advisors in Italy today.

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There are two principal pathways for the Italian Startup visa program.

INVEST IN AN “EXISTING” INNOVATIVE BUSINESS

  • Join an existing “innovative business” in Italy

  • Demonstrate investment for a minimum of € 100,000

  • Maintain an executive position in the Italian company (i.e. Chairman, CEO)

START A NEW “INNOVATIVE” BUSINESS

  • Launch your own business in Italy

  • Demonstrate a minimum of € 50,000 that is available to launch your business

  • A strong 5-year business business-plan


The Italian company must be be able to clearly demonstrate technological innovation.

Existing Innovative Business Requirements

If you are planning to invest into an EXISTING “innovative” business it is necessary that the Italian Start-Up company is:

A.   In existence for a minimum of 3-years;

B.   Classified as an “innovative start-up”, and

C.   Structured as a limited company per Italian law.

As part of the Italia Start-up Visa, entrepreneurs also have the opportunity to take advantage of “certified incubators”, or Italian companies that are formally recognized to host start-up companies and provide numerous early-stage resources. This support may include commercial space, technical and administrative resources, management support and more.