Designed for individuals interested in establishing a non-trading office in Italy
Italy - Representative Office Visa
The Italy Representative Office Visa is a business residency program for foreign companies looking to establish a non-trading presence in Italy. It allows companies to open a Representative Office to conduct activities such as market research, brand promotion, and business development without engaging in commercial transactions. Designed for business owners, executives, and entrepreneurs, this visa offers a cost-effective pathway to Italian residency without the need for significant investment, job creation or local presence. The permit is renewable annually and provides a long-term route to permanent residency and, ultimately, Italian citizenship.
Eligibility, Benefits, Timelines and Costs
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Eligibility
The applicant must be an authorised representative or employee of a foreign company
The foreign company must have been legally established and operating for at least one year
The Representative Office in Italy must be non-trading and limited to promotional, research, and liaison activities
The foreign company must demonstrate a minimum annual revenue of €12,000
The applicant must show proof of at least €6,500 in personal taxable income per year for permit renewal
The foreign company must provide documentation confirming legal registration and active operations in its home country
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Benefits
The visa allows the company’s representative to reside in Italy without being subject to Italian income tax on foreign-sourced income
No strict physical stay requirements, offering flexibility for international travel
Enables market research, brand promotion, and liaison activities without establishing a full operating company in Italy
Cost-effective entry point to test the Italian market before making larger investments
Provides a strategic foundation for future business expansion or the establishment of an Italian subsidiary
Residency can often be extended to immediate family members
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Timelines & Costs
The overall processing time is approximately 12 to 18 weeks, depending on visa appointment availability and consulate processing times
No minimum investment is required, unlike residency by investment or Golden Visa programs
Costs are limited to application support, legal documentation preparation, and professional advisory fees
Extra fees may apply depending on the number of applicants and the complexity of the case