Complete Guide to Italy's Startup Visa for UK entrepreneurs

From world-famous pasta to cutting-edge tech hubs, Italy has plenty to offer to aspiring entrepreneurs. The good news is that the Startup Visa Italy could be an ideal entry point for a UK founder ready to launch in this part of Mediterranean Europe.

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What visas are available for startups in Italy?

Italy keeps it simple with just one main route for startup founders with the Italia Startup Visa. The Italy Startup Visa, otherwise known as the Italia Startup Visa, is a residence permit that gives non-EU entrepreneurs, including those from the UK, a way to start an innovative business in Italy. It was introduced in 2014¹ as part of the country's plan to attract fresh ideas and grow its startup scene. If you're a UK entrepreneur eyeing the EU market after Brexit, this visa could be your way in. The whole process is online, and you don't even need to be in Italy to apply, which is perfect if you're still in planning mode or just testing the waters.

If you're already in Italy on a different permit (like a student visa or work visa), the Italia Startup Hub² government program lets you switch to the startup visa without leaving the country. It's a handy option if you've already made the move and want to step into entrepreneurship.

Eligibility requirements for the Italy startup Visa

If you're a UK entrepreneur with a standout idea and a clear plan, the Italy Startup Visa could be your ticket to launching in Europe. To qualify, your idea needs to be considered innovative and have strong potential for growth. In essence, new tech, sustainable products, or digital services. The application goes through the Italia Startup Hub, a government-run program that helps fast-track the process. Here's everything you'll need³:

• You need to be a non-EU citizen, as this visa is tailored for non-EU nationals. If you're already in Italy on a different permit, the Italia Startup Hub might be a better fit.
• Your startup needs an innovative business idea, such as tech-driven solutions, sustainable products, or unique digital services. The Italian government wants businesses that meet the requirements set out in the Italian Startup Act.
• You must have at least €50,000 in funding to invest in your startup. This can come from personal funds, investors, or certified incubators. Proof can include bank statements or investment agreements.
• Standard requirements also include a clean criminal background and a valid passport.

Benefits of securing a startup Visa in Italy

Securing a Startup Visa in Italy will get you through the door and let you set up in the country that's steadily becoming one of Europe's most exciting places to build something new. If you're a UK founder who wants a smoother path into the EU market post-Brexit, Italy offers an accessible, friendly route in. Once you're in, you'll find yourself in the middle of some exciting startup energy in cities like Milan⁵, Rome, and Turin, where founders, investors, and accelerators are expanding.

How to apply for the Italy Startup Visa, step-by-step⁷

The Italia Startup Visa is designed to be as simple as possible⁴, which is especially helpful if you're applying from outside Italy. The process is entirely online, and most applicants get a decision within 30 days. Once approved, you'll apply for your visa at the nearest Italian consulate and later handle your residence permit once you arrive in the country.

Step 1 – Gather your documents

Before you start the application, you'll need to pull together a few essential documents. Here is what you'll need to prepare:

• A completed application form – You can download it from the official Startup Visa site
• A valid passport – Make sure it's valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay
• A solid business plan – The plan should clearly outline your idea, how it's innovative, and your financial and market strategy
• Proof of financial backing – You'll need to show you have access to at least €50,000. This can come from investors, a startup incubator, or your own capital
• A clean criminal record – You need to provide a police clearance certificate from the country where you've been living

Step 2 – Submit your application

Once everything's ready, email your full application package to the Italian Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy at italiastartupvisa@mise.gov.it¹. Make sure everything is in PDF format and clearly labelled. Try to double-check each document because incomplete applications can slow things down.

Step 3 – Wait for the Committee's Decision

Your application goes to the Italia Startup Visa Committee, which meets twice a month – keep in mind that they aim to get back to you within 30 days. If all looks good, you'll receive a "Nulla Osta," a clearance certificate that gives you the green light to apply for your actual visa.

Step 4 – Apply for the Visa at your local consulate

With the Nulla Osta in hand, book an appointment at the nearest Italian consulate. Make sure you've got your certificate, completed application form, passport, and any extra paperwork they ask for. How long it takes can depend on where you're applying, but in most cases, it's done pretty quickly.

Step 5 – Apply for your residence permit in Italy

Once your visa is approved, you can head to Italy. After arriving, you'll have 8 days to apply for your residence permit ("Permesso di Soggiorno") for self-employment. It works the following way – first, you need to go to a post office and ask for the application kit (the "kit giallo").

Include your Nulla Osta⁶, your passport, proof of housing, and a few administrative items like a €16 tax stamp (called a marca da bollo), payment receipts for your permit fees, and four passport-sized photos. You'll submit the kit at the post office and get a receipt with an appointment at the local Questura (police station) to finish the process, including fingerprinting.

Tips for starting a business in Italy

You may come across some obstacles while setting everything up in Italy, but with the right steps and a bit of local know-how, it can be a smooth ride. First off, you'll need to open a business bank account in Italy. It's a must for businesses that are going to incorporate the local market or need to show proof of capital. Having a dedicated business account also makes it easier to manage taxes, pay employees, and receive funding. Wise Business, for example, lets you hold EUR and pay like a local without the high bank fees.

It's also worth getting to know the local startup hubs. Milan is the country's financial heart, with access to VCs, accelerators, and networking events. Rome and Turin are also great for tech, especially AI and mobility. And in the end, keep in mind that bureaucracy can be slow. That's why you should also build relationships with locals there – sharing a good coffee with potential partners or advisors can go a long way.

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Launching a business in Italy comes with exciting opportunities. It gives you access to the EU market, a thriving startup ecosystem, and the kind of lifestyle most people only dream of. With the right tools, it's easier to get going than you might expect. Wise can help you hit the ground running, with a multi-currency card that holds 40+ currencies, and a handy currency converter so you always know where you stand.

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Sources used for this article:
1. Entry Visa IT - Italia Startup Visa
2. Arletti Partners - Startup Visa Italy
3. Consolato Generale d'Italia Chicago - Italia Start-up Visa(National/long term visa)
4. Visa Guide World – Italy Self-Employment Visa Requirements, Types, and Application Steps
5. EU Star
6. EU Startups - Ciao, Innovation! 10 promising Italian startups you should keep and eye on in 2025
7. Italia Startup Visa Mise GOV IT - Italia Startup Visa # Application Process

Sources checked on 12-May-2025