Golden Visa and Luxury Properties in Italy: What Qualifies for High-Value Residency

Italy’s Golden Visa is attracting an increasing number of international investors and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) who dream of living in one of Europe’s most culturally rich countries while enjoying an advantageous residence permit. At Knotted.it, we assist expats in understanding how this visa works and which real estate options truly qualify as eligible investments. Combining property acquisition with Italian lifestyle planning requires both strategic thinking and in-depth knowledge of fiscal and immigration rules.

Understanding Italy’s Golden Visa for Investors

The Italian Golden Visa was introduced to encourage foreign direct investment and to make the country more appealing for entrepreneurs, wealthy individuals, and families seeking long-term residence. Unlike some EU schemes that focus exclusively on real estate, Italy’s programme includes several investment routes, such as subscribing to government bonds, supporting innovative start-ups, or acquiring shares in Italian companies. However, luxury real estate often plays a key role, especially for applicants who wish to combine a tangible asset with access to residency. At Knotted.it, we guide clients through the paperwork and strategic choices, ensuring their investment aligns with immigration requirements as well as personal objectives.

What Counts as a Qualifying Property

Not every home or apartment in Italy can be used as an anchor for a Golden Visa application. The authorities look for properties that demonstrate a significant economic contribution and are consistent with the applicant’s profile as an investor. Villas on the Amalfi Coast, penthouses in Milan or Rome, historical residences in Florence, or seafront estates in Sardinia are often considered suitable, provided their value meets the minimum investment thresholds and they comply with legal standards regarding registration, provenance, and urban planning. Choosing an iconic property also brings lifestyle advantages: proximity to international schools, private healthcare facilities, yacht marinas, and premium leisure services enhances the appeal of the investment and underlines its seriousness in the eyes of immigration officers.

Balancing Immigration Goals with Tax Efficiency

For expats who intend to become Italian tax residents, purchasing real estate as part of a Golden Visa strategy should be integrated into a broader wealth plan. Italy offers favourable regimes such as the Flat Tax (100k or 200k) for new residents, which can simplify the treatment of foreign income. However, property ownership may have implications for local taxes — including IMU (municipal property tax) and registration duties — as well as for succession planning. At Knotted.it we combine residency advice with fiscal structuring, ensuring that buying a luxury home does not inadvertently increase exposure to inheritance or gift tax, and that assets held through companies, trusts, or family offices are aligned with both immigration and tax goals.

Selecting the Right Location and Property Type

One of the strengths of Italy’s Golden Visa is its flexibility across regions and property types. International buyers can choose between prestigious urban apartments in Rome, Milan, or Turin, elegant country estates in Tuscany or Umbria, or contemporary villas overlooking Lake Como or the Ligurian Riviera. Some investors focus on properties with rental potential, using them as short-term holiday homes when not in residence; others prefer historical palazzos or vineyards, combining a personal retreat with a lifestyle investment. At Knotted.it, we help clients evaluate not only the beauty and exclusivity of a property but also its compliance with visa and tax requirements, future resale prospects, and access to nearby airports, marinas, and cultural hubs.

Final Considerations from Knotted.it

Acquiring a qualifying property under Italy’s Golden Visa is more than a transaction: it is the foundation of a new chapter in life, opening doors to residence rights, favourable taxation, and a refined way of living. With careful planning and professional guidance, expats and HNWIs can secure homes that meet immigration standards while enhancing their personal and financial well-being. Knotted.it provides bespoke support throughout the process — from selecting the right investment to coordinating legal, tax, and lifestyle services — ensuring that every step towards Italian residency is smooth, strategic, and rewarding.

Take the Next Step with Knotted.it

If you are considering applying for Italy’s Golden Visa and investing in a luxury property, the right advice makes all the difference. At Knotted.it, we combine immigration know-how, tax expertise, and a deep understanding of Italy’s premium real estate market. Whether you are drawn to a villa in Tuscany, a penthouse in Milan, or an exclusive seafront home in Sardinia, we can guide you through every step — from eligibility checks and property scouting to fiscal planning and lifestyle support.

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📧 Email: info@knotted.ch

Contact our team today to schedule a personalised consultation and discover how to secure Italian residency while maximising the value and enjoyment of your investment.