Elective Residence Visa

Visto per residenza elettiva

The retiree visa: live in Italy on passive income, without working.

Who it's for: Retirees and people with stable passive income (pensions, Social Security, rentals, annuities, investments).

Requirements

Passive income of at least about €31,000/year for an individual (about €38,000 for a couple, +5% per child)
Income must be passive: salary, including remote work, does not count and work is not permitted
A lease or deed for accommodation in Italy before applying
Health insurance, then registration with the SSN (national health service) once resident

Timeline: Visa decision about 90 days after the consulate appointment; renew the permit after 1 year, then every 2 years
Approximate cost: €116 visa fee, plus a permesso di soggiorno of about €100–200, plus insurance
Can you work?: No. No work in Italy, including remote work for foreign employers, according to most consulates
Path to permanent: EU long-term residence permit after 5 years, then citizenship after 10 years of legal residence

Pros

The best fit for retirees
Combines well with the 7% flat tax in southern villages
No language requirement to enter

Cons

You cannot work
Consulates vary in how strict they are about the income documents

Official source: vistoperitalia.esteri.it

General information as of autumn 2026, not legal advice. Requirements vary by consulate. Confirm with yours or with a licensed Italian immigration lawyer.